Academic freedom, workload on higher education reform agenda [WATCH]

Academic freedom and welfare will be part of Malaysia's higher education overhaul as the government plans to repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU), according to Higher Education director-general Datuk Professor Dr Azlinda Azman. The government will examine the obligations under Act 605, which cover academics' responsibilities, during the reform process.

During dialogue sessions with public universities and direct engagements with academic groups, academics expressed concerns that discussions often revolved around students, despite their own struggles. The Ministry of Higher Education plans to harmonize existing higher education laws in the proposed One Higher Education Act, which aims to strengthen academic freedom and autonomy for lecturers.

The government will take into consideration academics' obligations under Act 605, as well as public service requirements, when proposing amendments to AUKU. Funding constraints have limited universities' ability to recruit permanent lecturers, but the ministry encourages engaging retired academics and practising professionals to support additional classes.

Universities have autonomy to set their key performance indicators (KPIs), and the ministry acknowledges that work-life balance should be considered when assessing academics' responsibilities. Mental wellbeing is a priority, with universities strengthening counselling services and introducing mentoring arrangements to support academics.