In the drive to make the University of Malaya a world class centre of research and learning, the Academic Icon Program was established in the third quarter of 2010 with the goal of drawing globally acclaimed and renowned academicians and highly cited researchers to the university. Under the Academic Icon Program, these internationally established and prolific researchers and academicians will work closely with the academic staff of the university to guide and nurture high impact research and publish in top-tier journals, and also work closely with students to realize a new generation of competent and highly trained graduates that will service the growth and development of the nation.

The Academic Icon Program looks for the top scientists in various fields of research. Typically, Academic Icons are identified as those having an H-Index of 25 and above, as well as being of international standing in their respective fields. In addition to Academic Icons, the university is also actively recruiting Highly Cited Researchers, which represent the top 1% in terms of number of citations in ISI/WoS, and with significantly high H-Indices. The Academic Icons and Highly Cited Researchers will work hand-in-hand with the existing staff of the university to enhance their research, and at the same time guiding and nurturing the Bright Sparks of the University. Furthermore, they will help the University of Malaya to enhance its international linkages and to build strong relations with other universities around world.

The benefits and remunerations for the Academic Icons are substantial; including a significant salary and other perks.