Universiti Malaya to Establish First Overseas Campus in China

Meeting of minds: Prof Noor Azuan with Wu at the Education Ministry in Beijing.

Universiti Malaya (UM), Malaysia’s oldest and highest-ranked university, is making a significant move by establishing its first overseas branch campus — in China. This upcoming expansion, which will be located in Shandong province, marks the first time a Malaysian public university is setting up a campus in the country. According to UM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman, discussions are progressing well, and if all goes as planned, the campus is expected to open its doors next year.

Prof Noor Azuan recently met with Shandong's Vice-Governor Zhang Haibo to explore the potential of this collaboration. Shandong, one of China’s top three provinces in terms of gross domestic product (GDP), was selected for its strong and stable economic outlook. The provincial government has pledged support for the project, including financial backing and assistance with infrastructure — further strengthening the foundation for UM’s expansion into China.

He highlighted that setting up a campus in China is not merely about physical presence; it is a strategic step to leverage the country’s technological and economic strength, while also promoting cultural exchange and long-term collaboration. During his official visit to China, Prof Noor Azuan engaged with top educational and government leaders, including China’s Deputy Education Minister Wu Yan and the president of Peking University, Prof Gong Qihuang.

The initiative reflects UM’s broader mission to enhance global connectivity through education. Prof Noor Azuan stated that this move aims to foster innovation, create lifelong learning opportunities, and build bridges between Malaysia and China, benefiting students, academics, and both nations. With strong backing from China’s Ministry of Education, UM is also looking to deepen collaboration in research, innovation, and knowledge exchange — efforts that align with Malaysia’s aspirations to raise its educational standards and strengthen international ties.

Alongside the branch campus, UM is planning to launch a Foundation Programme in collaboration with Peking University. Additionally, the university will establish a CSCSE-UM Centre in both Beijing and Kuala Lumpur, in partnership with the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE). During a conversation with CSCSE director-general Wang Daquan, Prof Noor Azuan discussed the use of artificial intelligence and digital technology to improve student screening and admissions processes. These enhancements aim to simplify and elevate the selection experience for Chinese students interested in pursuing higher education in Malaysia.

This initiative not only signals UM’s global ambitions but also reflects the growing importance of cross-border academic partnerships in shaping a more inclusive, knowledge-driven future.

By Christina Chin

Sunday, 06 Apr 2025