PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian government has announced the abolition of the Universities and University Colleges Act (Auku) 1971, a move hailed by Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim as a significant step towards education reform and a win for student activists.
Adam Adli, in a statement, said the announcement by the Prime Minister marks a historic moment for student rights in Malaysia. The Auku, enacted in 1971, had long been criticized for restricting student political activities and freedom of expression on campus.
The abolition is part of broader higher education reforms. While the exact timeline for the repeal and any replacement legislation has not been detailed, the government's commitment to dismantling the act has been welcomed by student groups and civil society organizations.
Adam Adli, a former student activist himself, emphasized that the move aligns with the government's vision to create a more democratic and inclusive academic environment. He urged students to exercise their newfound freedoms responsibly.
