Kuala lumpur: Open University Malaysia (OUM) has established a significant presence in the country’s higher education sector by promoting flexible learning that transcends traditional classrooms, as stated by Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, the wife of the Prime Minister. She remarked that, unlike institutions that focus on full-time study, OUM allows students to learn during various times such as on the train, during lunch breaks, after work, or once family responsibilities are fulfilled.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this flexibility aligns with the national vision of expanding education access and nurturing a society that values lifelong learning. Dr Wan Azizah made these comments at OUM’s 25th anniversary gala dinner. The event was also attended by OUM pro-chancellor Tan Sri Azman Hashim, and president and vice-chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Izanee Awang.
Dr Wan Azizah also addressed the rapid pace of technological change, acknowledging it provides powerful tools but also poses significant risks. She emphasized that building a better Malaysia involves developing individuals who balance achievement with strong values, which is the core of the MADANI concept that OUM embodies.
OUM has opened its doors to thousands of learners, ranging from working adults and young professionals to athletes, celebrities, retirees, and even prison inmates, offering them opportunities to pursue higher education on their terms. Dr Wan Azizah noted that education should not be constrained by age, background, or circumstances, citing an example of a student who graduated with an MBA at the age of 90. She added that OUM’s impact goes beyond academic results, strengthening families, uplifting communities, and contributing to national progress.
OUM’s five core values-integrity, professionalism, caring, innovativeness, and teamwork-align with the MADANI concept of balanced development rooted in compassion and service. Dr Wan Azizah highlighted that true progress is founded on togetherness, compassion, and service, principles reflected in OUM’s values.
Prof Ahmad Izanee commented on the anniversary theme, ’25 Years of Humanising Digital Education,’ which underscores OUM’s belief that human connection is essential for effective learning, even in the digital era. Established in 2000 under a consortium of 11 public universities, OUM has produced over 120,000 graduates and offers 61 fully online Malaysian Qualifications Agency-accredited programmes ranging from diploma to doctorate level.
To mark its jubilee, OUM is involved in several initiatives, including planting 2,500 trees under the ‘Save Our Earth’ campaign, hosting a public lecture by five Global Fellows on the future of digital education, and planning upcoming activities such as a Mount Kinabalu expedition and a fun run.