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Universiti Malaya (UM) has become the first Malaysian university to enter the top 200 of the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, placing 194th in the 2027 edition
According to Bernama, the achievement marks a significant rise for Malaysia's oldest university, which was ranked in the 351–400 band in the 2023 edition.
Of the 2,297 universities ranked worldwide this year, UM is now among the top 8.5% globally. It also retains its position as Malaysia's highest-ranked university in the THE World University Rankings.
UM vice-chancellor Datuk Seri Profesor Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman said the milestone reflected the collective strength of the university and a stronger Malaysian presence in global higher education
"Breaking into the global Top 200 is not a finish line; it is a statement of intent. It shows that Universiti Malaya is moving with greater confidence, sharper purpose, and stronger global relevance.
"This achievement belongs to our entire community, and it sends a clear and unyielding message that a Malaysian university can stand among the world's leading institutions when ambition is matched by discipline, talent, and collective purpose," he was quoted as saying.
Noor Azuan also credited UM's academic and professional staff, researchers, students, alumni, and partners for the achievement, alongside the support of the university's leadership, the government, and Malaysia's higher education community
UM recorded a particularly strong performance in International Outlook and Research Quality, reflecting its growing international presence and research performance.
The THE World University Rankings 2027 assessed 2,297 universities across 118 countries and territories, making it the ranking's most inclusive edition to date.
