PETALING JAYA: In a remarkable achievement, Universiti Malaya (UM) has emerged as Malaysia's leading institution in the highly anticipated 2025 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings by Subject.

The latest rankings showcase UM's strength across diverse academic fields, with 20 of its 46 subject entries proudly featuring in the world's top 100.

Highlighting UM’s academic prowess

The Faculty of Library and Information has been ranked 29th globally, while the Education department has made a significant leap, now positioned at 38th after climbing an impressive 32 places from 70th in 2024.

Other notable areas include English Language and Literature, which advanced to 46th place from 53rd, and Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, achieving a commendable rank of 47th.

UM's Vice-Chancellor's Remarks

UM's Vice-Chancellor, Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman, credited this success to the university's unwavering dedication to academic and research excellence.

He emphasized that new programs, such as the Dentistry and Marketing courses, alongside consistent performance in other disciplines, are integral to the university’s mission of pioneering advancements that contribute to a better future.

Further Breakdown of UM’s Rankings

Further breakdown of UM’s rankings indicates positions of 71 for Social Sciences and Management, 79 for Engineering and Technology, 98 for Arts and Humanities, 118 for Life Sciences, and 134 for Natural Sciences.

Notably, UM's Anthropology program has entered the global top 200 for the first time, marking it as Malaysia’s sole ranked program in this field.

Following UM's Success

Following UM, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) secured 37 subject entries, while Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) both tallied 35.

In total, Malaysia boasts 277 subject entries across 55 academic disciplines, ranking it as the most represented country in Southeast Asia.

QS Rankings Overview

The latest QS rankings, which encompassed over 18,300 academic offerings from more than 1,700 universities worldwide, reflect Malaysia’s growing prominence in higher education, showcasing 27 ranked institutions and 51 new entries.

Overall, 52 Malaysian institutions improved their rankings, while 72 faced declines.

Notable Mentions in Engineering

Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) has made headlines by breaking into the top 20 for Petroleum Engineering at an impressive 16th position.

UTP Vice-Chancellor, Prof Datuk Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib, praised the program's consistency, highlighting its esteemed faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and robust industry connections.

Taylor's University Progress

Taylor's University has also made significant strides, with its Hospitality and Leisure Management program ranking 20th globally, while introducing its History of Art program into the 21-50 bracket.

Additionally, Taylor's found its place in the top 150 for both Social Sciences and Management as well as Arts and Humanities.

UCSI University Achievements

UCSI University, similarly, demonstrated significant progress with its Performing Arts climbing 10 spots to reach 32nd, while its Hospitality and Leisure Management program made it to the top 100.

UCSI holds ranks of 78th for Arts and Humanities, 132nd for Social Sciences and Management, and 223rd for Engineering and Technology.

Conclusion: Malaysia's Role in Higher Education

As the QS rankings reveal, Malaysia is firmly establishing its role in the competitive landscape of Asia's higher education.

These figures not only reflect the advancements of individual institutions but underscore the country’s collective effort to elevate academic standards and foster innovation for future generations.

Keep an eye on these institutions as they continue to shape the future of education in the region!