JOHOR BAHRU, 18 June – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has been ranked 158th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2027, reaffirming its position among the world’s top 10% universities.

Over the past 14 years, UTM has advanced 200 positions in the QS World University Rankings, rising from 358th in 2013 to 158th in 2027. This achievement reflects the university’s sustained progress and growing recognition as a globally recognised research university of engineering, technology and architecture.

Today, UTM is firmly positioned among the world’s leading universities and continues to strengthen its role as a globally connected institution recognised for academic excellence, impactful research and international engagement. Through education, research and innovation, UTM continues to contribute solutions to global challenges while supporting sustainable development and societal progress.

The QS World University Rankings 2027 assessed 8,808 institutions worldwide, with only 1,504 institutions earning a place in the published rankings, underscoring the highly competitive nature of global higher education.

The university continues to rank strongly in Academic Reputation, International Students, Faculty Student Ratio, Citations per Faculty, and Sustainability, reinforcing its position as a globally connected university recognised for academic excellence, research collaboration and internationalisation.

UTM recorded significant improvements across several key indicators. The university’s International Faculty indicator rose by 35 positions—the largest improvement among all QS indicators—reflecting its growing ability to attract international academic talent and strengthen the diversity, global outlook and quality of its teaching and research ecosystem.

Citations per Faculty improved by 10 positions, reflecting the increasing global impact of UTM’s research. UTM is also ranked third in Malaysia for this indicator, reinforcing its standing as a leading research-intensive university.

Meanwhile, the International Students indicator advanced by 8 positions, reflecting UTM’s growing attractiveness as a global education destination. With more than 5,700 international students from over 80 countries, the university continues to foster a diverse and internationally connected academic community that enriches learning, research and cross-cultural engagement.

Among the 32 Malaysian institutions ranked in QS World University Rankings 2027, UTM ranks third nationally for International Research Network, reflecting the strength of its global research partnerships and its growing influence in international knowledge creation and collaborative innovation.

Commenting on the achievement, UTM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim said, “Climbing 200 positions over the past 14 years and securing a place among the world’s top 10% universities is a testament to the dedication, resilience and excellence of the entire UTM community. This achievement reflects our growing global reputation, research impact and international engagement. UTM remains committed to advancing knowledge and transforming research into sustainable solutions that address real-world challenges. Our role is to transform knowledge into solutions that improve lives, strengthen communities and contribute to a more sustainable future. Through education, research and global partnerships, we strive to serve communities locally while contributing meaningfully to global progress.”

Guided by its enduring mission, ‘In the Name of God for Mankind’, UTM believes that knowledge must serve a greater purpose. Every breakthrough, innovation and partnership should ultimately contribute towards human well-being, sustainable development and the betterment of humanity. This recognition strengthens the university’s resolve to continue innovating sustainable solutions for a changing world and creating lasting impact for present and future generations.