Research universities are public universities recognised by the Cabinet on 11th October 2006 to become a leading research and educational hub. Research universities are comprised of the following four (4) public universities:

1. University of Malaya (UM)
2. Science University of Malaysia (USM)
3. National University of Malaysia (UKM)
4. Putra University of Malaysia (UPM)
5. Technological University of Malaysia (UTM)

Key elements of a Research University:

• Fields of study focusing on research
• Competitive entry requirements
• Quality lecturers
• A ratio of 1:1 of undergraduates to post graduates

Objectives of Setting Up Research Universities

• To increase research and development and commercialization activities
• To increase the intake of post graduates and post doctorate fellows
• To increase the number of academic staff with PhD qualifications
• To create and strengthen Centres of Excellence
• To  increase the intake of foreign students and elevate the international ranking of Malaysian Higher Education Institutions

Vision of Research Universities

Research universities take an active role in the exploration of new research ideas, investigation of innovative methods and participation of intellectual initiatives to continuously explore and expand cutting edge knowledge.

Mission of Research Universities

The mission of research universities is to become the nation’s growth engines, offer opportunities for students and academics alike to exchange ideas, and conduct research in a conducive environment which will spur exploration and creativity in the exploration of knowledge and generation of wealth, thus increasing the quality of life.

Selection Criteria of Research Universities

Recognition of a research university is based on eight (8) selection criteria determined by the Assessment of Research Universities Committee. These criteria have been developed with a focus on aspects of R, D & C and based on also the criteria adopted by several leading international rating agencies.

Marking criterias are as follows:-

The criteria was set by focusing on R&D&C aspects and taking  into account the criteria set by leading international rating agencies.

It is hoped that the recognition given to these four universities in Malaysia, namely, UM,  UKM, USM and UPM as Research Universities, will act as a stepping stone in efforts to formulate a strategy to enhance and strengthen the position of local Public Higher Education Institutions at the international level.

Therefore, Research Universities have to strive harder towards improving its ranking amongst the leading universities of the world as set out in the Times Higher Education Supplement (THES).  This is also in line with the aim of the National Higher Education Strategic Plan to have at least three (3) Higher Education Institutions listed within the top 100 universities and one (1) among the top 50 universities in the world by 2020.