UTM unveils ASCEND 2030 strategic plan, targeting a place among the world’s top 100 universities through structural reforms and four excellence pillars.
JOHOR BAHRU: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has launched a new five-year strategic direction involving structural changes across the institution.
The UTM ASCEND 2030 plan aligns with the national Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint 2026-2035 and seeks to position the university among the world’s top 100 by 2030.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim stated the changes are fundamental to how the university operates. “The changes we are making today are not merely cosmetic or rhetorical,” he said at a media conference.
He emphasised that structural reform is a strategic necessity for UTM to excel in both performance and societal impact.
The plan is anchored on four pillars: Leap in Excellence, Global Talent, Sustainability and Continuity, and Humanity and Wellbeing.
It outlines 10 Desired States covering global standing, graduate marketability, and carbon footprint reduction among other goals.
Initiatives to strengthen student welfare and gender equality include the Menu Rahmah programme and an Inclusive Village for Persons with Disabilities.
On governance, Mohd Shafry said UTM aims for 40% of key university positions to be held by women.
He framed the university’s core values under ISES: Integrity, Synergy, Excellence, and Sustainability.
Under the previous enVision UTM 2025 plan, the university reached several key milestones. UTM ranked 153rd in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and entered the global top 10% of universities.
The university generated RM357 million in revenue, with 34% of graduates earning over RM4,000 monthly.
“UTM has also produced alumni listed in Forbes Asia 30 Under 30,” Mohd Shafry added, cementing its role in shaping global leaders.
He urged all UTM staff, students, and alumni to unite in driving the new strategic plan’s success.
The Vice-Chancellor’s address also announced the UTM Royal Gala Dinner 2026 to raise funds for B40 and special-needs students.
