Universiti Malaya (UM)

Universiti Malaya (UM) is Malaysia’s oldest and most prestigious public research university, located in Kuala Lumpur. Established in 1949, UM has a rich history of academic excellence and remains a leading institution in Southeast Asia. It offers a diverse range of programs, emphasizing research, innovation, and community engagement, nurturing students to become global leaders.

History

Universiti Malaya was officially founded in 1949 through the merger of the King Edward VII College of Medicine and Raffles College. This merger marked the establishment of the first university in Malaysia, aimed at providing higher education opportunities locally. Over the decades, UM expanded its faculties and research centers, becoming a comprehensive university with a strong regional and international presence.

Academic Structure

UM comprises 13 faculties and several specialized centers, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across disciplines. The academic structure encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative learning. The university emphasizes quality education combined with impactful research to address societal needs.

Prominent Faculties and Departments

• Faculty of Medicine

  – One of the leading medical schools in Malaysia, noted for its clinical training and biomedical research.

• Faculty of Engineering

  – Offers programs in civil, electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering, with a focus on sustainable technologies.

• Faculty of Science

  – Covers biological, physical, and chemical sciences with cutting-edge research in biotechnology and environmental sciences.

• Faculty of Law

  – Provides comprehensive legal education, known for its strong emphasis on constitutional and international law.

• Faculty of Business and Accountancy

  – Known for programs in finance, management, and accounting with a focus on entrepreneurship.

• Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

  – Offers studies in humanities, sociology, linguistics, and communication.

Research Activities

UM is a research-intensive university committed to innovation and knowledge creation. It hosts various research institutes, such as the Institute of Biological Sciences and the Centre for Drug Research. The university actively collaborates with industries and international partners to advance research in health sciences, engineering, social sciences, and environmental sustainability.

International Rankings

• QS World University Rankings 2025:

  Ranked within the top 100 universities in Asia.

• Times Higher Education (THE) 2024:

  Placed among the top 150 Asian universities.

• QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2024:

  Recognized for strong graduate employment rates globally.

Campus Life

The UM campus in Kuala Lumpur offers a vibrant student life enriched by a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies. Facilities include modern lecture halls, research labs, libraries, sports complexes, and student accommodations. The campus fosters cultural diversity, with students from over 100 countries, promoting a global learning environment.

Notable Alumni

• Dr. Mahathir Mohamad

  – Former Prime Minister of Malaysia, known for his leadership and development policies.

• Najib Razak

  – Former Prime Minister of Malaysia.

• Siti Nurhaliza

  – Renowned Malaysian singer and cultural icon.

• Rais Yatim

  – Former Minister of Information and Culture in Malaysia.

• Dr. Jemilah Mahmood

  – Founder of Mercy Malaysia and global humanitarian leader.

Future Goals

Universiti Malaya aims to elevate its status as a world-class research university by 2030, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and inclusive education. The university plans to enhance its research output, international collaborations, and community engagement, while strengthening its commitment to producing responsible and impactful graduates.

Contact Information

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Admission Requirements and Application Procedures

Undergraduate Admissions

Applicants must have completed secondary education with strong academic records. UM considers qualifications such as STPM, A-Levels, IB Diploma, or equivalent. International students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Application is done online via the UM portal or through the Malaysian Ministry of Education’s admission system.

Graduate Admissions

• A recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
• Submission of academic transcripts, research proposal (for research programs), and recommendation letters.
• English language proficiency for non-native speakers.
• Some programs may require interviews or additional tests.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

UM offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs to support both local and international students. These include merit-based scholarships, research grants, and need-based assistance. Prospective students are encouraged to check the university’s financial aid office for the latest opportunities and application deadlines.