PUTRAJAYA, Aug 28 — Disciplinary proceedings at public universities involving freedom of speech, expression of views, public criticism and peaceful assembly must be halted with immediate effect, the Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) said.
The ministry said the move will expand students’ freedom of expression and right to association, in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s remarks at the Malaysia Madani Intellectuals Forum (FIM) on the repeal of the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU).
In a statement today, MOHE said it is reviewing measures under the existing legal framework to give immediate effect to the prime minister’s directive.
Several provisions under AUKU and Student Disciplinary Rules that restrict students’ freedom of expression and association have been identified for exemption, including the freedom to manage student associations and clubs; the freedom to organise student activities; the freedom of expression, assembly, use of communication platforms, and the distribution and publication of documents.
“Such freedoms must go hand in hand with responsibility and respect for the rule of law.
“Acts involving violence, vandalism, property damage, criminal offences, academic misconduct or breaches of valid disciplinary rules remain subject to the laws and regulations in force,” read the statement.
MOHE said a similar review would be conducted for International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), which are not governed by AUKU, to examine provisions relating to students and align them with reforms under AUKU.
The ministry said it is committed to developing an open, structured and inclusive higher education governance framework through engagement with all stakeholders, to ensure a quality higher education ecosystem for the country’s future.
Anwar had stressed that while a new legal framework is underway, measures to give students greater freedom should be implemented immediately, without waiting for the new act to be drafted.
