Kuala Lumpur:The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) has embarked on a review and restructuring of public university holding companies, including UiTM Holdings Sdn Bhd, as announced by its Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative aims to ensure these holding companies operate more effectively and contribute to their respective institutions. This move comes in the wake of the government's decision in 2017 to cease fully funding universities' financial needs.

Dr Zambry highlighted that since last year, efforts have been made to restructure university holding companies. He noted that some holdings were underperforming, prompting several reviews, including those of UiTM Holdings. The minister spoke during an official visit to Kazakhstan for the Malaysia-Central Asia Higher Education Forum 2026 (MAHEF2026), following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's call for a review of UiTM Holdings' management and governance due to financial losses.

While some university holding companies have reported profits, others have faced losses. Dr Zambry suggested that successful business models from profitable companies could be emulated by others. Regarding UiTM, a dedicated team has been formed to conduct a comprehensive review aimed at strengthening the university and its associated holding company.

The review team includes Dr Nungsari Ahmad Radhi, Datuk Dr Hamzah Kassim, UiTM Board of Directors chairman Tan Sri Mohd Khamil Jamil, and former Minister of Higher Education Tan Sri Idris Jusoh. Dr Zambry emphasized the importance of safeguarding UiTM as a key Bumiputera higher education institution to prevent any negative influences.

The measures announced by the Prime Minister align with ongoing efforts by MOHE, which will continue with the review process. UiTM Holdings has previously reported cumulative pre-tax losses of approximately RM157 million for the financial years 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021.