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No New Law to Replace Abolished Universities Act, Says Malaysia PM
🇲🇾 Malaysia /Elections & Politics

No New Law to Replace Abolished Universities Act, Says Malaysia PM

From Utusan Malaysia · () Malay

Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • Malaysia's Prime Minister announced the abolition of the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971, stating no new law will replace it.
  • The decision aims to guarantee student freedom of movement and activities on campus without restrictive legislation.
  • While some concerns exist about potential student misconduct, the Prime Minister asserted that existing criminal and disciplinary laws are sufficient to address any offenses.

Malaysia's Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has announced the complete abolition of the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971. He clarified that this repeal will not be followed by any amendments or the introduction of a new law to replace it, emphasizing the government's commitment to safeguarding student freedom.

I want to announce now, we have agreed on the abolition of AUKU. I want to clarify that I do not want amendments, AUKU must be abolished completely.

— Datuk Seri Anwar IbrahimPrime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announces the government's decision to abolish the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971.

Anwar stated that the move is a significant reform for higher education, intended to provide students with greater freedom of expression, thought, and engagement in society. He addressed concerns that abolishing AUKU might lead to increased student misconduct, arguing that such fears should not be a reason to retain the act. "I want to announce now, we have agreed on the abolition of AUKU. I want to clarify that I do not want amendments, AUKU must be abolished completely," he declared.

He further stressed that he would not permit any replacement regulations or laws that could stifle student activities. "I will emphasize this matter in the Cabinet meeting that I do not agree with any amendments or replacement acts that restrict student activities," Anwar added. He believes that existing laws are adequate to handle any student transgressions.

I will not allow any replacement regulations or laws that curb student activities.

— Datuk Seri Anwar IbrahimPrime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reiterates his stance against any restrictive legislation replacing AUKU.

While the Prime Minister insists that current criminal and disciplinary laws are sufficient to address offenses like harming others or cheating in exams, the Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd. Kadir, suggested that a new, comprehensive legal framework is needed to meet current and future higher education requirements. However, Anwar remains firm that a specific act like AUKU is no longer necessary.

I will emphasize this matter in the Cabinet meeting that I do not agree with any amendments or replacement acts that restrict student activities.

— Datuk Seri Anwar IbrahimPrime Minister Anwar Ibrahim states his firm opposition to any new laws that might limit student engagement.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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