KLANG: The government will table a Bill in Parliament this year to repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said this would give students greater room to think, debate and express their views responsibly.
"Give these young people space. They are already adults and mature. Will mistakes not happen? Of course, mistakes will happen, but educate and advise them," he said when officiating the Himpunan Anak Muda Kebangsaan Antarabangsa 2026 here on Thursday (Aug 20).
Anwar said existing criminal laws are sufficient to deal with any wrongdoing.
"There are already criminal laws. Use them. Why do we need additional laws for university students?
"At the Cabinet meeting, yesterday, I said I want to abolish it entirely," he said.
He said repealing the Act would not affect the administration of universities, including the powers of deans, senates and boards of studies.
Anwar also told the youth are not just leaders for the future but as those who had already played a role in shaping the country.
"Young people today must shape thinking, speak up and have the courage to criticise," he said.
He said such participation should be carried out with courtesy and respect, stressing that disagreement was acceptable as long as it was guided by proper conduct.
