Kuala lumpur: 2025 has been a remarkable year for Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), showcasing significant achievements in academics, research, and sustainable innovations that promise to enhance future prosperity.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, UTM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim highlighted the university's key accomplishments, which include its graduates achieving a 100 percent marketability and employment rate, alongside a 21.6 percent premium salary rate. He emphasized that UTM education equips graduates to contribute on a global scale, noting the recognition of two alumni in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia as a testament to the university's role in nurturing innovative technocrats.
On the international stage, UTM's rank in the QS World University Rankings advanced notably, moving from 188 in 2024 and 181 in 2025 to 153 in 2026, placing it within the top 10 percent of universities worldwide. Prof Dr Mohd Shafry attributed this progress to enhanced academic reputation, elevated research output, and a rising number of international students, supported by collaborative efforts within the university and with industry partners.
He further explained that UTM has fortified its Translational Research agenda, focusing on research integrated with societal needs. This has led to the creation of innovations such as DERMAGs Skin Solution, Natural Kiss, IHBS, iBreath, Oil2Wang, ROV Pleco, Inspecto, and JAGA Drone, fostering a sustainable innovation ecosystem and strengthening community ties.
To develop well-rounded graduates, UTM has emphasized character development and competencies through globally authentic learning experiences grounded in ethics and civility. These attributes are embedded in the curriculum, industrial training, and community programs, cultivating global thinkers, innovative talents, and responsible citizens.
The university's leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) continues through initiatives like the Malaysia AI Consortium, partnerships with Huawei, Alibaba, and Zhejiang University, and the establishment of AI program standards by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency. UTM is also focusing on AI talent development for various sectors.
Looking forward, UTM aims to expand its global influence through the UTM ASCEND 2030 initiative, focusing on excellence, global talent, sustainability, resilience, and well-being. The ambitious goals include achieving a Top 100 QS ranking, reaching 300,000 lifelong learners, reducing carbon footprint by 30 percent, and executing 70 research projects that directly benefit community well-being.