The Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (Akta Universiti dan Kolej Universiti 1971), or known locally with its abbreviation AUKU, has been in operation for over half a century in Malaysia. It was enacted with the purpose of providing a legal mechanism for the establishment, administration and governance for public universities, but gradually became intertwined with a larger debate on student activism, political participation, freedom of expression and academic freedom.
Category: Malaysia
Brunei, Malaysia Strengthen Bilateral Security and Connectivity Cooperation
Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence, border security, energy, connectivity and economic development during the 27th Annual Leaders’ Consultation on August 22.
Malaysia and Philippines Look to Expand Cross-Border Trade and Investment
On August 18, the Philippines and Malaysia are set to discuss ways of deepening bilateral cooperation as senior officials from both countries gather in Manila for the ninth Philippines-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting (JCM).
Malaysia Urges ASEAN Haze Vigilance as El Niño Intensifies
On August 16, Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) officially urged southern ASEAN nations to intensify regional preparedness for an escalating El Niño phenomenon and worsening transboundary haze.
Malaysia’s Stock Market Set to Trade Higher This Week
The Malaysian national news agency Bernama reported on August 8 that the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) is projected to trade with an upward trend bias leading into the week of August 8. This favourable momentum is estimated to oscillate within a narrow consolidation range of 1,720 to 1,750 points.
Malaysia Introduces New 10-year Energy Action Plan, Projecting $21.5 bn Savings Amid Surging Intensifying Data Centre Construction
On August 11, the Malaysia’s government introduced an advanced continuity for its National Energy Efficiency Policy and Action Plan (NEEAP 2.0) that will run until 2035, projecting over 21.5 billion US dollar in utility savings over the next decade.
Malaysia Introduces 10-Year Limit for Passport Validity
Malaysia’s Immigration Department has introduced a 10-year maximum validity period for the Malaysian International Passport (PMA), effective August 12.
Malaysia’s Negeri Sembilan Executive Councillors Pledges Policy Continuity
On August 8, Negeri Sembilan’s newly appointed State Executive Council (Exco) members pledged to continue existing programmes and implement manifesto commitments following the state election, which returned Barisan Nasional (BN) as the dominant force in the 36-seat state legislature.
Malaysia Commemorates ASEAN Day, Insists Intra-Regional Trade Boost Vital for Bloc’s Top-Four Economy Ambitions
Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a commemorative celebration for the 59th ASEAN Day on August 10 at the federal administrative centre of Putrajaya.
Malaysia to Increase Defence Budget as Military Modernisation Accelerates
Christopher Hubenthal)
On August 7, Malaysian Prime Minister (PM) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the government intends to increase defence spending under Budget 2027 to strengthen the Malaysian Armed Forces’ (MAF) operational readiness and accelerate its long-term modernisation programme.
