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THE launch of Malaysia’s National Education Plan 2026–2035 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, followed by the Higher Education Plan 2026–2035, has sharpened focus on the future direction of the country’s academic landscape, particularly in identifying fields of study critical to national development.
Against this backdrop, Professor Ir Dr Mohd Syuhaimi Ab Rahman of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia has cautioned that local universities risk falling behind if they fail to act decisively in an increasingly competitive global environment.
Reflecting on rapid advancements among leading international institutions, he stressed the urgency for Malaysian universities to adopt well-planned, agile and effective strategies to maintain relevance.
“Looking at the rapid development of leading international universities, it is clear that local universities risk being left behind if they do not act immediately. Therefore, all universities require careful, agile and effective planning and implementation to remain competitive. Universities need to move quickly and cannot allow themselves to remain behind,” he said.
He added that institutions must better understand evolving industry demands and strengthen platforms that enhance collaboration between academia and industry, particularly in high-technology sectors and emerging job ecosystems.
On the role of industry, he underscored its importance in ensuring graduates meet real market expectations, noting that universities must act as a central force in identifying industry needs while industry players contribute to strengthening academic management systems.
“The role of industry is very much important in ensuring that the quality of graduates truly meets job market demands. Universities need to become the pulse in identifying the real needs of industry, while at the same time industry helps to strengthen university academic management systems.
“The university-industry collaboration model must be strengthened so that both parties can work together to produce a workforce aligned with current industry demands, particularly in high-technology sectors. Without industry involvement, efforts to produce market-ready graduates will be difficult,” he said.
On global university rankings, he acknowledged their growing influence on public perception, student recruitment, institutional reputation and employer confidence, as well as their role in attracting international students to Malaysia.
“Rankings have now become a core part of the global higher education landscape as they shape public perception of institutional quality, influence student intake, reputation as well as the choices of employers and governments.
“They are also seen as an important instrument in attracting international students to Malaysia.
“However, rankings are not everything. Universities are not merely chasing numbers but investing in parameters that contribute to real excellence such as quality education, research and impact on society and the nation. A holistic approach is essential so that the value created delivers long-term benefits,” he said.
He emphasised that strengthening the global standing of Malaysian universities requires a holistic approach that prioritises both academic excellence and internationalisation, supported by strong research capabilities and sustainable financial resources.
“In placing local universities among the best in the world requires a holistic approach, but not merely chasing numbers. Instead, the value generated must be reflected in its impact on society and the nation.
“Two aspects must be emphasised here: academic and international dimensions as the main drivers of university excellence, alongside a focus on research. All these aspects require strong financial sustainability so that any plans can be realised effectively,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of infrastructure development in creating a conducive learning environment, encompassing academic, sports and recreational facilities to produce competent graduates aligned with industry needs.
Turning to digital transformation, he called for the expansion of programmes such as Open and Distance Learning, micro-credentials, professional certifications and flexible academic courses, noting that physical presence is no longer a limiting factor in education.
“Digitalisation of programmes such as Open and Distance Learning (ODL), micro-credentials, professional certificates and academic courses must be strengthened. Physical study can be reduced as location is no longer a primary factor. Students can access lectures and assessments from anywhere.
“These academic products need to be continuously evaluated, improved and promoted to ensure they remain relevant to current market needs, while also contributing to the financial sustainability of universities,” he said.
On producing competitive graduates, he stressed the need for dynamic and adaptive curricula that respond to industry changes, alongside the development of soft skills, leadership, professional ethics and communication abilities.
Curriculum structures need to be dynamic and adaptive to industry changes. Beyond academics, the development of student attributes such as soft skills, leadership, professional ethics and communication abilities is extremely important.
“Efforts to build competitiveness must be supported by reflective assessment, a conducive learning environment and activities that stimulate character development. Through this approach, industry perceptions of graduate quality can be enhanced,” he added. - April 12, 2026
