KUALA LUMPUR: The Higher Education Ministry is open to explaining and discussing with students the issues surrounding the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971.

Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said Student Representative Councils that do not understand or have any opinions can discuss with the ministry to address existing weaknesses.

"Previously, we have held engagement sessions with all the student council bodies from most universities, both private and public, to gather feedback from student leaders.

"Indeed, we can't satisfy everyone, but most of the student councils agree with the amendments made," he said during a press conference after launching the CelcomDigi Metavarsity event at the CelcomDigi Tower, today.

Mustapha said there are several acts that are sometimes not understood by students.

"AUKU is not only for students but also involves managing the universities. There are only seven clauses involving students. How can we remove it since it involves university management?

"I hope that dissatisfied students or council members can meet with student affairs in their respective universities.

"Because what I mentioned is a process, so any further provisions for these amendments can be detailed at the Higher Education Ministry level," he said.

He gave an example from the disciplinary perspective, which was previously not clarified, but now there are community members in case of misconduct among students.

On March 18, the amendments to AUKU, which will grant freedom to students in several matters, were passed in the Dewan Rakyat.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said the act has undergone seven amendments.

"16 per cent of the seven sections, out of a total of 42, outline matters pertaining to students' interests," he said.

Previously, a total of 945 students have been accused under the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 for academic misconduct, including cheating and bringing notes during examinations, between 2018 and 2023.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/1029031/auku-mohe-invites-student-leaders-come-forward-discussions