Govt’s reform agenda rests with PM, says Rafizi

Former economy minister Rafizi Ramli stated that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim holds the key to the government's reform agenda. According to Rafizi, who served as economy minister, the prime minister acts as the "gatekeeper" for proposals that reach the Cabinet. On his "Yang Berhenti Menteri" podcast, Rafizi noted that while there was no significant resistance from Umno to reforms, the government and the system in Malaysia have existed for over 70 years.

He argued that Umno would not criticize a system it created. Rafizi further explained that reform proposals could come from the prime minister or individual ministries, but ultimately, the prime minister decides whether they will be brought to the Cabinet. He cited the recent announcement to repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act (Auku) as an example of the prime minister's role in shaping reform.

Rafizi welcomed the move but emphasized that the real test would be further changes in higher education. He also mentioned that the 13th Malaysia Plan proposed granting autonomy to one public university as a pilot project, which he had helped introduce. Rafizi hoped the repeal of Auku would move towards university autonomy, encompassing both academic freedom and funding.

Auku, enacted in 1971, has been subject to debate regarding students' freedom to protest, organize, and express views on political and public issues. Last amended in 2024, it now gives student associations more autonomy over fundraising and other activities.