Universiti Malaya (UM) has made a big leap on the global stage, securing the 25th spot in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, which measures universities’ efforts in supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A standout achievement for UM is its No. 1 global ranking in SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, with an impressive score of 99.8%. This recognition reflects UM’s strong international collaborations and commitment to advancing sustainable development through strategic partnerships. The university’s active role in global networks such as the ASEAN University Network, Asian Universities Alliance, and United Nations Academic Impact has strengthened its impact across sectors and borders.
Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaya, Dato’ Seri Professor Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman said that this recognition reaffirms our unwavering commitment to the cause of sustainable and future driven pathway of development and inclusive advancement of knowledge with the synergy of strategic efforts to achieve the right impact of sustainable development goals.
“The success that we have achieved now is the derivation from our tireless collective efforts from the entire campus community in transforming the strategic sustainable and green plans into a practical reality, benefitting not only the immediate society, but where solutions churned out will benefit the future generations and the world as a whole.
“We will continue to progress towards achieving the new milestones of creating a brighter, resilient and sustainable future for the future generations, with the advent of both intellectual and research advancement and the strategic embrace of a sustainable culture and concept,” Professor Azuan added.
UM also performed exceptionally in several other SDGs. It was ranked 4th globally for SDG 1: No Poverty, highlighting its efforts to support students through financial aid, affordable housing, and festive season transport. The university’s outreach also extends to underprivileged communities through initiatives that improve access to basic needs, education, and health services.
In addition, UM placed 7th in the world for SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, driven by its green campus initiatives and sustainability policies aligned with Malaysia’s Higher Education Blueprint. The university also jumped into the 12th spot globally for SDG 15: Life on Land, reflecting major gains in biodiversity conservation and environmental education. These results signal UM’s growing role as a leader in sustainability and its commitment to becoming a carbon-neutral campus by 2030.
