AUKU Must Remain Dynamic, Evolve With Changing Times - Zambry

PUTRAJAYA, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- The Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971 must remain dynamic and evolve in step with current developments, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said.

He said the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is open to views on the Act and is engaging stakeholders, including students, to identify areas for improvement.

“There may be weaknesses that we need to address, but we must not forget that AUKU is the sole legislation governing the establishment of higher education institutions.

“Without AUKU, what is the legal basis for setting up a public university? There would be none,” he said at a press conference after officiating the Malaysia Technical University Network (MTUN) Academia-Industry Conference 2026 here today.

Also present was Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) vice-chancellor cum MTUN vice-chancellor’s committee chairman, Prof Datuk Dr Massila Kamalrudin.

Zambry said that discussions are ongoing among universities and ministry officials to examine possible shortcomings in the Act.

“Originally enacted in 1971 and amended in 1974 and subsequent years, AUKU has undergone several revisions, and it must continue to adapt over time and cannot remain static,” he said.

Yesterday, the minister said MOHE respects calls from students nationwide to repeal or review the Act, reiterating that AUKU must align with current developments and that the ministry remains open to feedback from all parties.

AUKU forms the legal basis for establishing universities and regulates the administration of universities and colleges in Malaysia.

The Act grants the government and university authorities powers over key administrative matters, including financial management, staff appointments and student affairs.

-- BERNAMA