New Act to replace Auku being fast-tracked, says Zambry

Higher education minister Zambry Abd Kadir has revealed that the Malaysian government is accelerating the drafting process of a new Act to replace the Universities and University Colleges Act (Auku) 1971. The minister informed the parliamentary select committee on nation building, education, and human resources development about the initiative.

KUALA LUMPUR: The new legislation will retain essential provisions regarding university establishment while simplifying them for inclusion in the new Act. Zambry emphasized that Auku is not exclusively a student-focused law, as it also provides the legal framework for the creation and operation of public universities. The ministry is concurrently working to alleviate restrictions on students, according to the prime minister's request, through executive measures and existing procedures.

Zambry stressed that comprehending the broader implications of Auku, including university establishment, is crucial. Without Auku, universities would face operational challenges. On August 15, Anwar declared the abolition of Auku without proposing a replacement that would impose restrictions on students' freedom. The higher education ministry subsequently formed an independent committee to examine the aspects involved in drafting the replacement law.

Anwar hinted at presenting a repeal bill for Auku in the Dewan Rakyat this year, with the ministry actively participating in the drafting process.