UM121 start of a new chapter

Universiti Malaya (UM) will focus on improving its global standing while sustaining academic excellence, research and societal contributions as it marks its 121st anniversary, says Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman. While global rankings are not UM's sole focus, the university recognises their importance in shaping how higher education institutions are perceived internationally, he said.

"We recognise that rankings are important because the global community looks at a university through its ranking. We are working to improve UM's position beyond 56th globally in the coming years," he said after the launch of UM's 121st anniversary celebrations, known as UM121, at Dewan Tunku Canselor. "We will see the results when the Times Higher Education rankings are released soon, while the QS World University Rankings are expected next year."

The event, attended by more than 2,000 campus members, was officiated by Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, who is UM chancellor. Present were pro-chancellors Toh Puan Datuk Seri Dr Aishah Ong, Tan Sri Datuk Zainun Ali and Tan Sri Datuk Seri Mohd Annuar Zaini.

Noor Azuan said UM's 121-year history carries a great responsibility to remain relevant to the nation and deliver tangible benefits to society. UM's history was closely intertwined with Malaysia's development, he said, having produced generations of scholars, leaders, and citizens, including six of the country's 10 prime ministers.

"UM121 is not merely about celebrating our age. It is about looking back at the history UM has built since 1905 and recognising our greater responsibility to ensure UM remains relevant to the nation. We want to advise the country to become better and, most importantly, create a real and meaningful impact for Malaysian society."

He said the university would build on its legacy through knowledge, expertise and research under the UM121 theme, "121 Tahun Kecemerlangan, Menyulam Masa Depan". "We want to continue this legacy by bringing forward our strengths in knowledge, expertise and research to create a greater impact, not only on society, but also on Malaysia and the world."

Noor Azuan added that UM recognised its responsibility to expand opportunities for all Malaysians. "We will do our very best for the nation's children by empowering knowledge, developing people, expanding opportunities and ensuring every step taken by UM continues to bring benefits to society and our beloved country," he said in his speech. He said UM's ultimate aspiration was to be recognised not only for academic excellence, but also for its research, people and character.

On technological transformation, Noor Azuan said UM was aligning its academic programmes and campus development with global advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). He said UM had played a significant role in Malaysia's development, including producing six of the country's 10 prime ministers. "We are aligning ourselves with global development. Academically, we are increasingly moving towards AI, with programmes and systems within UM developing alongside advancements in AI."

He said UM121 should also be viewed as the beginning of a new chapter rather than simply a celebration of the university's longevity. He said the university was inherited from previous generations and its present community had a responsibility to preserve it for future generations. "UM is not only owned by the UM campus community. It belongs to the people of Malaysia."

In his speech, Noor Azuan said the university's 121st anniversary should serve as a renewal of its commitment to the nation. "May this 121st year not be the culmination of the journey, but a new beginning for UM to continue serving, with knowledge strengthened and the nation honoured."

The UM121 celebrations will continue throughout the year through programmes highlighting the university's history, achievements, research and innovation, alumni and community contributions. The public and alumni can follow updates on the official website at um.edu.my/about-um121 and on Universiti Malaya's official social media platforms.