Universiti Malaya (UM) has achieved another significant milestone in its sustainability journey, ranking 35th in the world, Top 10 in Asia and No. 1 in Malaysia in the UI GreenMetric Sustainable University Rankings 2026.
The achievement marks a steady progression in UM’s sustainability performance. Nationally, UM rose from third place in Malaysia in 2023, to second place in 2024 and 2025, before reaching No. 1 in Malaysia in 2026.
This progress reflects the University’s sustained and collective efforts to embed sustainability across its operations and core functions - encompassing climate and energy action, responsible resource management, sustainable mobility, biodiversity and infrastructure, as well as education, research, community engagement, governance and digitalisation.
More importantly, the achievement represents a long-term institutional commitment to translating sustainability from aspiration into everyday practice, measurable action and meaningful impact.
“Sustainability is no longer a choice, nor can it remain a statement of intent. It must be visible in how a university thinks, operates, builds, teaches and creates impact. Reaching No. 1 in Malaysia, Top 10 in Asia and 35th globally is therefore more than a ranking for Universiti Malaya — it is evidence that our collective actions are producing measurable results,” said Dato’ Seri Professor Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaya.
“But leadership is not defined by the position we reach; it is defined by what we do next. UM must continue to set the pace — by turning our campus into a living platform for sustainable solutions, strengthening research that addresses real-world challenges, and preparing a generation that will not merely understand sustainability, but have the courage and capability to shape a more resilient future for the world and humanity.”
UM’s sustainability journey has been built progressively through collaboration across faculties, research centres, administrative units and the wider campus community.
Its approach extends beyond environmental management and carbon reduction to include research and innovation, education, institutional governance, community engagement, and efforts to create a healthier, more inclusive and resilient campus.
The University extends its heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has contributed to this progress. The achievement reflects what can be accomplished when sustainability becomes a shared institutional responsibility, supported by continued commitment, collaboration and a willingness to embrace change.
As UM celebrates its 121st year, the University remains committed to further strengthening sustainability across teaching and learning, research, operations and engagement, while extending its impact beyond the campus.
This milestone is both a recognition of how far UM has come and a reminder that the sustainability journey continues - to lead by example, create meaningful impact, and build a campus where people and nature can thrive together.
About UI GreenMetric Sustainable University Rankings:
The UI GreenMetric Sustainable University Rankings is a global university sustainability ranking that assesses institutions across key areas of campus sustainability and encourages universities worldwide to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance.