Malaysia Needs Comprehensive New Law to Replace AUKU, Say Experts

Malaysia requires a new and more comprehensive legal framework to replace the outdated Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) of 1971. This legislative overhaul is seen as crucial for developing a higher education system that is more integrated, dynamic, and competitive, aligning with the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint 2026-2035's agenda of a unified higher education act.

Professor Dr. Yatimah Alias, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), emphasized that AUKU's scope extends beyond student affairs and academic freedom. It serves as a foundational element for the establishment, administration, and governance of universities and university colleges. Therefore, its repeal must be accompanied by a clear, thorough, and forward-looking legislative framework capable of meeting current and future higher education demands.

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AUKU is not merely about student affairs or freedom, but is among the important foundations for the establishment, administration, and governance of universities and university colleges.

Echoing the sentiments of the Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd. Kadir, Professor Alias stated that the development of this new framework is an inclusive process. It involves gathering input from various stakeholders, including university leadership, academics, public and private higher education institutions, industry players, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) providers, legal experts, and students.

UMPSA has welcomed this initiative and expressed its readiness to contribute its expertise to the Ministry of Higher Education's efforts in developing a framework that will advance the nation's higher education ecosystem. The proposed reforms aim to modernize the governance of higher education institutions, enhance academic freedom, and ensure greater autonomy for students, fostering a more robust and responsive educational environment.

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UMPSA welcomes this proposal and is prepared to contribute expertise to the Ministry of Higher Education's efforts in developing a framework to advance the nation's higher education ecosystem.