KUALA LUMPUR — Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) has become the first Malaysian university to secure a place in the top 250 of the World University Rankings 2025 by the Times Higher Education (THE).
It has moved up to the 201-250 band from its previous position at the 301-350 band, UTP said in a statement today.
The significant leap of 100 places has positioned UTP as the number one university in Malaysia and a private university in Asean, the university added.
“Since 2017, the university has steadily ascended the rankings, moving from the 601-850 band to the top 250 universities in the world today.
“UTP’s rise in the rankings is evidence of its unwavering focus on academic and research excellence, strong industry collaborations, and a commitment to producing future-ready graduates,” it said, citing its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and experiential education.
UTP vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib said that the achievement is a source of immense pride for the entire UTP community, reflecting the steadfast dedication and commitment of the university’s faculty, staff, students and alumni.
“We express our gratitude to Petronas, industry partners, and academic collaborators who have contributed to UTP’s achievements,” he said, emphasising that UTP’s strategic focus is on becoming a research-led university while maintaining its commitment to teaching excellence.
Mohamed Ibrahim said the university’s extensive efforts to collaborate with industry and establish strong partnerships worldwide, coupled with increased translational research, have enabled UTP to produce industry-demand and future-proof graduates.
In line with its vision to become a leading energy and technology university by 2050, he said that UTP is set to introduce a new innovative engineering programme that equips students with interdisciplinary skills for the future at THE Campus Live SE Asia organised by UTP this Nov 26 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
THE rankings for 2025 showed that of Malaysia’s 23 universities, four had improved their standing, three declined while 15 kept their positions.
After UTP, the second highest ranking for a Malaysian institution is for Universiti Malaysia, which remains in the 251-300 band.
Sunway University entered the top 500 universities by breaking into the 401-500 band, from the 601-800 band previously.
Four other public institutions in the top 500 are Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and Universiti Utara Malaysia – also ranked in the top 500. – October 9, 2024