The Higher Education Ministry is expected to table amendments to the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (UUCA) in Parliament this December, government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil said.

The proposed amendments will focus on provisions restricting students’ freedom of speech and association, particularly Sections 15 to 16B of the Act.

Section 15 of the UUCA governs students’ involvement in political activities, party affiliations, and public expressions, while Section 16 gives vice-chancellors the power to suspend or dissolve student organisations.

Section 16B, meanwhile, sets out the disciplinary authority and powers over students.