Kuala Lumpur, Sept 23 – The first reading of the proposed Bill to replace the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU) is expected to be tabled during the Dewan Rakyat parliamentary sitting in December, according to Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.

Zambry stated that the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is currently finalizing an extensive series of engagement sessions with key stakeholders to ensure the new legislation encompasses the entire national higher education ecosystem.

“In terms of timeline, we will try to see whether we can carry out the first reading, perhaps at the December parliamentary sitting. But you must remember, it (the Bill) will involve very extensive engagement,” Zambry told reporters following the closing ceremony of the University Research and Innovation Investment Summit (URIIS) 2026 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.

The minister clarified that the draft legislation will extend beyond student union autonomy and student rights to address broader institutional governance, administrative frameworks, and academic structures.

Explaining the scope of the current act, Zambry noted that AUKU contains 44 sections, of which only seven specifically pertain to student affairs, while the remaining 37 sections govern university establishment, administrative structures, academic policies, and financial management.

“We understand that when drafting a new act, we must take into account the entire ecosystem of the national higher education system,” he added.

Zambry highlighted that the latest round of consultations involved the Parliamentary Special Select Committee to incorporate bipartisan feedback from both government and opposition lawmakers.

Turning to fiscal expectations for the upcoming Budget 2027, Zambry expressed optimism that the Higher Education Ministry would receive an increased allocation to support the implementation of the Malaysian Higher Education Development Plan.

–NMT

Tags: AUKU MOE Zambry Abd Kadir