Kuala lumpur: Two-thirds of the proposed amendments to the MARA Act 1966 will focus on strengthening governance and the code of conduct of the institution. MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki stated that the amendments were necessary as the existing act, enacted in 1966, had only undergone a few minor amendments and was no longer seen to be in line with current realities and future needs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, one of the main issues identified was the excessive centralization of power in the chairman and the MARA Council, which could potentially expose the institution to the risk of violating modern governance principles. Dr. Asyraf emphasized the need for a clear separation between the board of directors and the management to ensure a more effective system of checks and balances. This statement was made during the MARA 60th Anniversary Celebration at the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre.

Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim ordered the draft amendments to be completed and submitted within three months. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was also present at the event. Dr. Asyraf mentioned that efforts to refine the act began a year ago, focusing on ensuring the integrity and financial management aspects were at the best level to prevent leakage and wastage.

In another development, Dr. Asyraf addressed the recent stabbing incident in Kelantan involving a Kolej Poly-Tech MARA (KPTM) student. The management had taken immediate steps to assist the victim's family, offering necessary assistance while the police continued their investigation due to the criminal nature of the case. Dr. Asyraf expressed condolences to the victim's family and emphasized the importance of examining student safety and welfare to implement corrective measures and prevent future incidents.