Bill to replace Auku may be tabled in December

The Malaysian government is considering tabling legislation to replace the University and University Colleges Act 1971 (Auku) potentially in December, according to Higher Education Minister Zambry Abd Kadir. The consultation process is an extensive and comprehensive discussion involving numerous stakeholders.

Zambry indicated the first reading may occur in October during the upcoming parliamentary session. However, if October proves challenging, the bill could be introduced as early as December. The government is consulting a parliamentary select committee chaired by Indera Mahkota MP Saifuddin Abdullah on the draft legislation.

Auku, a 1971 law, covers 44 sections with only seven pertaining to students. The remaining provisions deal with university establishment, governance, and academic affairs. Consequently, extensive consultations are being conducted with various parties, including government bodies, opposition figures, university administrators, and academics.

The next Dewan Rakyat meeting is scheduled from October 5 to December 8, with the 2027 budget set to be presented on October 9. Following Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's announcement on August 15 that Auku would be abolished due to unsuccessful previous amendments, the government aims to introduce the replacement bill in the Dewan Rakyat this year.