Family pride: Prof Noor Azuan (fifth from left) with Shrikeshav (fifth from right) and his loved ones.
A TOTAL of 3,396 students recently began their foundation studies at Universiti Malaya.
This marks the highest number of enrolments the varsity’s foundation programmes have ever recorded.
The students are enrolled in the Foundation in Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Islamic Studies, and Islamic Studies and Science (APIDS) programmes for the 2025/2026 academic session.
Twin brothers Wan Muhammad Nasril and Wan Muhammad Nasrul Wan Roslan, 17, from Kuala Nerang, Kedah, expressed their joy at finally entering their dream university.
“This is the first time my twin brother and I will be living apart because we’re staying in different residential colleges. It’s a bit sad since we’ve never been separated since birth, but seeing the campus atmosphere here makes me excited to start this new chapter,” said Wan Muhammad Nasril, who aspires to become an engineer. His brother, meanwhile, is interested in medicine.
Foo Sin Ming, 17, from Cheras, also shared his excitement.
“I feel very fortunate to be at UM. My hope is to pursue my ambition in the banking or investment sector,” he said.
For Shrikeshav Thevindran from Johor, joining the Foundation in Social Sciences programme is the first step towards his dream of pursuing a career in law.
His father, Thevindran Kandasamy, expressed pride in his son’s achievement.
“UM is Malaysia’s leading university. Our family has always dreamt of our son studying here. Today, we came together as a family to celebrate his success. We hope he continues to excel in the field of law,” he said.
Nur Amili Fitria Mohd Azmi described the opportunity to study at UM as an unexpected blessing.
“I’m proud to be pursuing my studies at the country’s best university. My hope is to become someone who can make my parents and the nation proud,” she said.
Welcoming the new foundation students on July 12, UM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman expressed confidence that their one-year stint at the varsity would lay a strong foundation for their learning, critical thinking, character development, and leadership skills.
“UM is committed to providing a safe, comprehensive and conducive learning environment – not just academically, but also in terms of student welfare. The trust given to us by parents is a huge responsibility, and we will ensure that every student has the best and most meaningful educational experience during their time here,” he said in a press release.
Deputy vice-chancellor (Student Affairs) Prof Dr Zamri Radzi expressed gratitude for the cooperation of over 300 support staff and 160 student facilitators in ensuring the two-day registration process went smoothly.
“The staff and volunteers have shown great dedication, working hard from early yesterday morning. We at the Student Affairs division will continue to ensure that all students feel comfortable and well-guided as they adjust to campus life,” he said.
Earlier on July 8, UM welcomed 343 new diploma students to its Centre for Continuing Education in Cyberjaya and the UM Education Centre in Bachok, Kelantan.
