MOHE unveils four-step roadmap for single Education Act following AUKU repeal

The Ministry of Higher Education has unveiled a four-step roadmap to introduce a unified legal framework for tertiary education, as part of the One Higher Education Act initiative. This follows the historic decision to repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU).

Phase one involves establishing an Independent Committee to conduct thorough research and recommend statutory reforms. Phase two focuses on engaging the entire higher education sector to gather feedback and insights from key stakeholders.

The third phase will finalize the overarching policy and legal framework necessary for drafting the upcoming bill. The final phase centers on creating a transitional mechanism to maintain uninterrupted governance and administrative operations during the transition.

This unified act aligns with Initiative 5A.2 under the Malaysia Higher Education Plan 2026–2035. Officials emphasize that the restructuring aims to build a clearer, more responsive statutory framework tailored to present and future academic demands.

The process will be carried out meticulously to prevent a legal void upon AUKU's repeal and ensure the continuity of governance and operations for higher education institutions. The ultimate goal is to create a stronger, more resilient, and forward-looking higher education legal framework that will fortify institutions, safeguard the interests of the academic community, and provide greater autonomy, innovation, and advancement for national higher education.