KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 — There will be enhanced operational autonomy to higher education institutions under the proposed One Higher Education Act that would include dedicated status to safeguard academic freedom, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.

Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim said the new comprehensive legislation, which is set to replace the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (UUCA), aims to overhaul the current administrative and academic governance frameworks.

“Under the One Higher Education Act, institutions will be empowered with operational autonomy in key areas, including staff management, course and program offerings, and the establishment of strategic collaborations through a new mechanism designed to meet higher standards of academic freedom,” Adam Adli said during Question Time.