The High Court’s decision to overturn disciplinary action against a Universiti Malaysia Perlis (Unimap) student is not only a “celebration of student activism” but may affect other universities, the Higher Education Ministry says.

Deputy Higher Education Minister Saifuddin Abdullah said the finding that Unimap’s disciplinary regulations are ultra vires of the federal constitution shows that university administrations must be “more careful” in executing its disciplinary procedures.

“The judgment shows that students are provided with a proper avenue for appeal that goes beyond the authority of the university.

“Hence, students should be brave enough to exercise their rights accordingly,” he said in an email to Malaysiakini .

He said universities should also “restrain from overstretching the intent of certain sections of the Universities and University Colleges Act which are yet to be amended” to reduce likelihood of abuse.

‘Students free to choose’

“Students are free to seek legal advise and assistance from whichever source of their choice, including from any political parties,” he said.

NONE Meanwhile, Higher Education Ministry director-general Rujhan Mustafa said that the decision could affect universities with similar disciplinary regulations.

“At this stage, I think the case may have an affect on other universities,” he told The Star , adding that the ministry is studying the details of the case.

The Kuala Lumpur High Court on Tuesday overturned the 66-day suspension and RM100 fine against Mohd Izuwan Zaini ( right ) imposed by Unimap over the student’s involvement in a voter awareness campaign.

Justice Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim also awarded Mohd Izuwan, a mechanical engineering student who will be attending his convocation this Sunday, RM5,000 in costs.