Syed Saddiq reminds govt of pledge to abolish UUCA

 

Muda president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman has reminded the government to fulfil its pledge of repealing the University and Universities Colleges Act 1971 (UUCA).

Taking to social media, the Muar MP said several Pakatan Harapan leaders had given their assurance that the act would be abolished if the coalition won the general election.

"In 2019, the cabinet decided to abolish the UUCA, and we were happy. But with the change of government, we have to start (our struggle) all over again.

"Let us not forget that in the Harapan manifesto, we pledged to abolish the UUCA.

"The UUCA not only suppresses and restricts students’ voices, but it also confers absolute power upon politicians to determine the administration of all universities in Malaysia," Syed Saddiq said.

"That's why we need to fight and abolish the UUCA."

He also reminded Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of the latter’s commitment to allow students to express their criticisms freely and respect their freedom of speech.

"Students must be equipped with critical thinking skills, and it all starts in the classroom," he said.

On Feb 24, Higher Education Minister Khaled Nordin said the government has no plan to repeal the UUCA as the law was still relevant, especially in the administration of universities.

However, Khaled said the government was open to improving the UUCA and was constantly engaging stakeholders.

Harapan had promised to abolish the UUCA as part of its GE15 election pledges. Its goal was to grant more autonomy to universities and institutions of higher learning.

Currently, the UUCA grants powers to the minister in charge to decide on key appointments for universities such as the vice-chancellor’s post.

Critics claimed that this law undermines the autonomy of universities as it allows ministers to appoint vice-chancellors without merit consideration.

The Dr Mahathir Mohamad administration (2018-2020) had plans to abolish the UUCA and replace it with a new law by 2020 but their tenure was cut short. - Mkini