Universiti Malaya (UM)

Universiti Malaya: A Comprehensive Overview

Founded in 1949, Universiti Malaya (UM) is Malaysia’s oldest public research university, located in Kuala Lumpur. With 25,000+ students, including 15% international students from 100+ countries, UM offers 200+ programs, excelling in medicine, engineering, and social sciences. Ranked among Asia’s top universities, UM drives regional innovation and community engagement.

History

Formed by merging King Edward VII College of Medicine and Raffles College, UM became Malaysia’s first university. It expanded post-independence, adding faculties and research centers. UM’s role in nation-building, admitting women in 1950, and producing leaders like Mahathir Mohamad have shaped its 75-year legacy.

Academic Structure

UM’s 13 faculties, including Medicine, Engineering, Law, and Arts and Social Sciences, offer undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. Over 50 English-taught programs support global students. Interdisciplinary centers and online learning enhance flexibility, with strengths in biotechnology and law.

Prominent Faculties and Departments

The Faculty of Medicine trains 20% of Malaysia’s doctors, leading in tropical medicine. The Faculty of Engineering excels in sustainable technologies, while the Faculty of Law ranks top in Malaysia. The Faculty of Business and Accountancy drives entrepreneurship. Research institutes secure MYR 200 million ($45 million) annually, producing 2,000+ publications.

Research Activities

UM leads in health sciences, environmental sustainability, and social policy, with centers like the Institute of Biological Sciences. Collaborations with ASEAN and global partners drive innovation. UM holds 500+ patents, addressing regional challenges like food security and urban development.

International Rankings

UM ranks 100th in QS Asia Rankings 2025, 150th in THE 2023, and top 50 in law (QS 2023). Its graduate employability is in the global top 100 (QS 2022), reflecting strong industry ties.

Campus Life

UM’s Kuala Lumpur campus features modern labs and historic buildings. With 100+ student societies, cultural festivals, and sports facilities, campus life is vibrant. Kuala Lumpur’s diverse, affordable city enhances student experiences. International students access orientation, housing, and transport passes.

Notable Alumni

Alumni include Mahathir Mohamad (former PM), Siti Nurhaliza (singer), and Jemilah Mahmood (humanitarian). The 150,000+ alumni network impacts policy, culture, and science.

Future Goals

UM’s 2030 Plan targets top 50 Asian status, expanding sustainability and AI research. Aiming for carbon neutrality by 2035, it’s investing MYR 500 million in infrastructure, enhancing inclusivity and global partnerships.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate admission requires STPM, A-Levels (90% CBSE), IELTS 6.0, or TOEFL 80. Graduate programs need a bachelor’s degree (3.0 GPA), SOP, and LORs. International applicants apply via UM’s portal (March–June 2025), with MYR 20,000/year ($4,500) funds for a visa ($50). Tuition is MYR 2,000–10,000/year ($450–$2,250); scholarships like UM Merit cover costs.

Contact Information

Address: 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Phone: +60 3-7967 6000; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.um.edu.my; Housing: [email protected].

Conclusion

UM’s 75-year legacy, strong rankings, and vibrant Kuala Lumpur campus make it a regional leader. With innovative research, diverse programs, and robust support, UM offers an exceptional platform for academic and societal impact.