JOHOR BAHRU, Mar 13 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) continues to strengthen its global standing as a distinguished research university, with 27 subjects—covering 5 broad subjects and 22 narrow subjects—ranked in the QS World University Rankings (WUR) by Subject 2025.
In this edition, Petroleum Engineering has improved to 46th place in the Top 50, achieving a significant advancement from the 51-100 range in 2024, reaffirming UTM’s excellence in the field. Meanwhile, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have made their debut in the Top 100, while Architecture/Built Environment has retained its position as the top-ranked programme in Malaysia. Additionally, Engineering – Mineral and Mining has also entered the Top 100.
UTM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, attributed this achievement to the university’s commitment to enhancing academic and research excellence on a global scale. He emphasised that this success is driven by UTM’s strong research reputation and impact, further reinforced by the establishment of Malaysia’s first Faculty of Artificial Intelligence (FAI), launched by the Prime Minister in May 2024.
“UTM’s debut in the Top 100 for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is a remarkable achievement, aligning with our strategic focus on AI—a global priority. This success reflects the dedication of our academics, researchers, and faculty, alongside UTM’s efforts to strengthen research, innovation, and global reputation under enVision UTM 2025,” he stated.
In the Top 200, several engineering disciplines, including Electrical & Electronic Engineering (#106), Civil & Structural Engineering (#101-150), Chemical Engineering (#101-150), and Mechanical, Aeronautical & Manufacturing Engineering (#138), continue to demonstrate strong competitiveness.
Additionally, Computer Science and Information Systems (#152) and Chemistry (#198) have shown notable improvements, further highlighting UTM’s reputation for excellence in engineering, science, and technology.
A particularly exciting development this year is the ranking of Agriculture & Forestry and Natural Sciences in the Top 300, while Geography has also made its debut in the rankings.
This significant achievement underscores the effectiveness of UTM’s strategies in advancing high-quality research and fostering active engagement in rapidly evolving fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and information technology. UTM’s excellence in these strategic disciplines also aligns with national priorities outlined in the National Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) and the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR).
“It is imperative for UTM that students are nurtured through high-quality academic programmes that not only support their intellectual and professional growth but also equip them with the skills to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s and global workforce,” Prof. Shafry added.
Moving forward, UTM remains committed to strengthening its role as a pioneering institution in developing expertise and technologies that support Malaysia’s aspirations for a knowledge-based economy and a sustainable energy future.