Malaysia to abolish Universities and University Colleges Act, promoting academic freedom

The G70 Professors Organisation (PPG70) has welcomed the government's decision to abolish the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU), announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on August 15, 2026. PPG70 also fully supports the subsequent statement by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir, who confirmed that the abolition is a key component of the Malaysia Higher Education Plan 2026–2035.

This landmark decision will pave the way for a new, comprehensive legal framework designed to be progressive and aligned with current and future educational needs, under the agenda of 'One Higher Education Act'. PPG70 has outlined its stance and recommendations to ensure the transition is effective and beneficial for the academic community and the nation's higher education sector.

PPG70 emphasizes the critical need to strengthen academic freedom following the repeal of AUKU. They advocate for an environment where academics and students can freely engage in critical discourse, publish research based on facts, and express their views without fear of bureaucratic pressure or strict disciplinary actions. Furthermore, the organization calls for the empowerment of student leadership, enabling them to act as proactive representatives of youth voices on contemporary issues affecting the public.

The organization also stresses the importance of inclusive engagement with academic expertise. PPG70 has expressed its readiness to contribute its knowledge and collaborate closely with the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT). Their goal is to ensure the new legislation is progressive, futuristic, and competitive on an international level. PPG70 believes that abolishing AUKU will reposition universities as vital centers for idea generation, innovation, and the cultivation of an integrity-driven national identity.

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PPG70 is ready to contribute its expertise and cooperate closely with the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) to ensure this new legislation is progressive, futuristic, and internationally competitive.