Zambry: UUCA repeal requires holistic review of higher education law

The repeal of the Universities and University Colleges Act (UUCA) 1971 extends beyond the immediate concerns of students, necessitating a comprehensive reevaluation of the entire higher education legal framework before drafting a replacement, according to Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir. Zambry emphasized that the UUCA currently comprises 44 sections, addressing various aspects of university establishment, governance, academic standing, academic staff, administrators, and other related areas, with seven sections specifically concerning students.

While Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has focused on alleviating student constraints, the government's broader vision encompasses the rights and freedoms of academic staff, administrative requirements, and the overall institutional governance. The ultimate aim is to establish a new Act that will serve as the definitive legal foundation for the entire higher education sector, capable of addressing both present needs and anticipated future challenges.

To achieve a balanced outcome, the government plans to employ an independent committee to coordinate multi-stakeholder discussions, ensuring diverse viewpoints inform the development of the new framework before its finalization. This initiative represents a crucial component of the Malaysia Higher Education Plan (RPTM) 2026-2035, which seeks to transition towards a One Higher Education Act, an objective first announced in January.

The move follows earlier commitments from the prime minister to repeal the UUCA, allowing for increased democratic space for students, a decision influenced by memoranda and inputs from student leaders advocating for comprehensive reforms.