Malaysia moves to repeal Universities and University Colleges Act 1971

The Malaysian government's decision to repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU) has received support from student representatives and academic organizations. The move, announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, is part of a broader legislative reform aimed at enhancing institutional autonomy and progressive governance in higher education.

The Student Representative Council of Universiti Utara Malaysia (MPP UUM) welcomed the reform, noting that the repeal has long been a demand of civil society and student movements. Muhammad Syahmi Iman Muhammad Rezal, President of MPP UUM, emphasized that the repeal should be followed by democratic, transparent, and accountable administrative mechanisms to ensure academic freedom and integrity.

Similarly, the G70 Professors Organization expressed support for the decision, aligning with the Ministry of Higher Education's plan to introduce a new legal framework under the ‘One Higher Education Act’ as part of the Malaysia Higher Education Plan 2026–2035. The organization urged that the new legislation must protect academic freedom, allowing researchers and students to engage in critical discourse without bureaucratic pressure, while also empowering student leadership.