UUCA must evolve with the times, says Zambry to repeal calls

 

The Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (UUCA) must remain dynamic and evolve in step with current developments, Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir said.

He said the Higher Education Ministry is open to views on the Act and is engaging stakeholders, including students, to identify areas for improvement.

“There may be weaknesses that we need to address, but we must not forget that UUCA is the sole legislation governing the establishment of higher education institutions.

“Without UUCA, what is the legal basis for setting up a public university? There would be none,” he said at a press conference after officiating the Malaysia Technical University Network (MTUN) Academia-Industry Conference 2026 in Putrajaya today.

Also present was Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka vice-chancellor cum MTUN vice-chancellor’s committee chairperson, Massila Kamalrudin.

Zambry said that discussions are ongoing among universities and ministry officials to examine possible shortcomings in the Act.

“Originally enacted in 1971 and amended in 1974 and subsequent years, UUCA has undergone several revisions, and it must continue to adapt over time and cannot remain static,” he said.

Yesterday, Zambry said his ministry respects calls from students nationwide to repeal or review the Act, reiterating that UUCA must align with current developments and that the ministry remains open to feedback from all parties.

UUCA forms the legal basis for establishing universities and regulates the administration of universities and colleges in Malaysia.

The Act grants the government and university authorities powers over key administrative matters, including financial management, staff appointments, and student affairs.

- Bernama