PETALING JAYA: The Higher Education Ministry says all disciplinary proceedings involving freedom of speech, expression of views, public criticism and peaceful assembly at public universities must stop immediately.
In a statement on Friday (Aug 28), it said the move is part of immediate measures to expand students’ freedom of expression and right to association, in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s call for the repeal of the Universities and University Colleges Act (Auku) 1971.
"During the Malaysia Madani Scholars Forum (FIM) Series 13, the Prime Minister stressed that while the process of developing a new legal framework is underway (and) measures granting students greater freedom should be implemented immediately, without waiting for the entire process of drafting the new Act to be completed.
"Following this, the ministry has reviewed measures that could be implemented under the existing legal framework to give effect to the Prime Minister’s stance," it said.
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It added that several provisions under Auku and the Student Disciplinary Rules that restrict students’ freedom to speak and associate have been identified for exemption from enforcement as part of the immediate measures.
These include greater freedom in the management of associations and clubs, management of student activities, as well as freedom of speech, assembly, use of communication platforms and the distribution and publication of documents.
However, the ministry said that such freedoms must be exercised alongside responsibility and respect for the rule of law.
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"Actions involving violence, vandalism, property damage, criminal offences, academic misconduct, or breaches of legitimate disciplinary rules remain subject to the laws and regulations in force," it said.
It added that for the International Islamic University Malaysia (UIAM) and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), which are not governed by Auku, a similar review would be conducted on provisions governing students to ensure they were aligned with the reforms being introduced.
"The ministry remains committed to developing an open, structured and inclusive higher education governance system through engagement with all stakeholders to ensure a quality higher education ecosystem for the nation’s future," it said.
