KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Malaya (UM) is accelerating its shift toward financial autonomy to reduce its reliance on government funding, says vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman.
The university aims to build a more sustainable institutional model by generating a larger portion of its own revenue.
“UM's dependence on government funds has decreased from 61% in 2025 to 57% in 2026," Dr Noor Azuan said during his new year's address on Friday (Feb 13).
He noted that 43% of the university's financial needs are now met through its own internal efforts.
“We will continue to move gradually, more systematically and boldly, towards more balanced and sustainable financing,” he added.
To broaden its financial base, UM is utilising Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and alternative instruments like Sukuk.
The university is also strengthening strategic engagement with government-linked companies (GLCs) and investment companies (GLICs) to support long-term development.
UM reported a consolidated revenue of approximately RM2.4bil in 2025 and expects this to rise to RM2.6bil for the 2026 financial year.
Endowment contributions have also seen a significant surge, rising from RM17.6mil in 2024 to RM31.6mil in 2025 - surpassing the target by 109%.
Dr Noor Azuan stated that this increase reflects the growing trust of contributors in supporting the future of UM students.
