Founded in 1969 as Malaysia‘s second university, Universiti Sains Malaysia diploma, Get a Universiti Sains Malaysia degree online. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has grown from its origins as Universiti Pulau Pinang into the nation’s premier research-intensive institution and the only university in Malaysia to be awarded APEX (Accelerated Programme for Excellence) status by the Ministry of Higher Education.
With a student body exceeding 34,000 and a reputation as Malaysia‘s “university in a garden,” USM has earned its place among the world’s leading universities through a steadfast commitment to research, innovation, and sustainable development.
USM’s journey began in 1962 when the Penang State Legislative Assembly called for the establishment of a university college in the state. The foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj on 7 August 1967, and two years later, Universiti Pulau Pinang was formally established. I need a Universiti Sains Malaysia certificate online. In 1971, the university moved to its permanent 416.6-hectare site at Minden, the former British Far East Command barracks, where it remains today.
The university‘s motto, “We Lead” (Kami Memimpin), reflects its pioneering spirit. In 2008, USM became the first university in Malaysia selected for the APEX programme, a fast-track initiative designed to propel tertiary institutions toward world-class status. This designation recognised USM’s potential to achieve global excellence and its commitment to transforming higher education in Malaysia.
USM’s rise in global rankings has been nothing short of remarkable. In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, USM climbed to 134th globally, a significant improvement from 146th in 2025.
The university ranks among Malaysia’s top five institutions and has solidified its position as a leading research university in Southeast Asia.
The university’s commitment to sustainability has earned even greater international acclaim. How can i get to buy Universiti Sains Malaysia diploma? In the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025, USM achieved an extraordinary 14th place globally—the highest among Malaysian universities—with top rankings in multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including “No Poverty,” “Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions,” and “Partnerships for the Goals”. In the QS Sustainability Rankings 2026, USM placed 248th globally, reflecting its leadership in environmental and social responsibility.
