PPG70 has offered its expertise to help MOHE formulate a new higher education law following the repeal of Auku, with a focus on academic freedom and reform.
PETALING JAYA: Academic coalition Pertubuhan Profesor G70 (PPG70) has offered its expertise to assist the Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) in formulating a new legal framework for higher education following the government’s decision to repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (Auku).
Its chairman, Prof Emeritus Datuk Wan Ramli Wan Daud said PPG70 welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Aug 15 announcement on the repeal of Auku, as well as Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir’s statement that the move was outlined in the Malaysia Higher Education Plan 2026-2035.
He said the repeal would be followed by the development of a more comprehensive and progressive legal framework suited to the current and future needs of higher education under the One Higher Education Act agenda.
“PPG70 is prepared to contribute its expertise and work closely with the Higher Education Ministry to ensure the new legislation is progressive, forward-looking and competitive at the international level,” he said in a statement.
Wan Ramli said the repeal should also strengthen academic freedom by giving academics and students greater space to engage in critical discourse, publish fact-based research and express their views without excessive bureaucratic pressure or disciplinary action.
He said the move should empower students to play a more active role in representing young people’s views on current issues affecting society.
PPG70 said it believed repealing Auku would help restore universities’ role as platforms for generating ideas and innovation, while fostering nation-building based on integrity.
