Malaysia to repeal Universities and University Colleges Act 1971

The Malaysian government is moving to repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971, which has been in place for over five decades. A new bill is expected to be presented in Parliament this year to replace the existing legislation.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has provided assurances that the new laws will not be restrictive or suppressive toward student movements. Instead, the focus of any new regulations will be on the administration and management of universities and colleges. The government maintains that individuals aged 18 and above should be granted full trust as adults capable of learning from their mistakes.

However, officials emphasize that the repeal does not grant absolute freedom. Students will remain subject to criminal laws and the specific internal regulations of their respective educational institutions. The transition aims to balance student autonomy with accountability and responsibility.