Malaysia

Anwar vows Tabung Haji act overhaul

Both moves reaffirm the MADANi Government’s commitment to institutional reform, student freedoms and equitable development nationwide

Updated 1 hour ago · Published on 17 Aug 2026 8:41AM

Anwar vows Tabung Haji act overhaul
The Government will amend the Tabung Haji Act 1995 and completely repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 in a sweeping governance reform push - August 17, 2026

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has pledged to overhaul the Lembaga Tabung Haji Act 1995 and completely repeal the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU) as part of a broader push to strengthen institutional governance and protect student rights.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said amendments to the Tabung Haji Act 1995 (Act 535) would be introduced to safeguard the trust placed in the institution by the Muslim community and address weaknesses in its governance.

"Governance must continue to be strengthened, institutions cleaned up, and every weakness corrected decisively. The Tabung Haji Act will be amended to preserve the trust of the Muslim community.

"... while the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971 must be completely repealed without being replaced by new legislation that continues to constrain student voices," he said in a Facebook post on Sunday.

The Prime Minister said the measures formed part of the MADANI Government's continuing efforts to strengthen institutions and ensure weaknesses were addressed decisively rather than allowed to persist.

He also reaffirmed that economic growth under his administration must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of Malaysians, regardless of their political affiliations or where they live.

Anwar stressed that Malaysians in states governed by the Opposition were equally entitled to protection and development, saying the Government's responsibility extended across the country rather than being confined to its supporters or particular regions.

His remarks came as the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) National Congress 2026 concluded yesterday, with Anwar, in his capacity as PKR president, reiterating the party's commitment to principles, idealism and pursuing what it believes to be right.

He said PKR must not compromise its principles or abandon its reformist ideals simply to retain political power.

Anwar also stressed that PKR must remain a vehicle for all Malaysians, regardless of race, religion or region, with the party's commitment to justice demonstrated through concrete policies and actions.

"The strength of Keadilan relies on a clean leadership line-up, firm leadership, and organized work execution. Power is not a tool to enrich oneself, family, or cronies, but a trust to defend the people, uphold justice, and elevate human dignity.

"Close the ranks, streamline work operations, and continue advancing for the people and the nation," he said. - August 17, 2026

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