RPTM 2026-2035: UTM PLANS TO ADD 300 MORE PLACES FOR LOCAL STUDENTS

JOHOR BAHRU, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) plans to expand its capacity by adding 300 places for local students in line with the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint (RPTM) 2026-2035.

Vice-chancellor, Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, said the expansion would focus on fields such as accounting, artificial intelligence (AI), data engineering, and semiconductor-related programmes.

“We aim to contribute around 300 places of the 1,500 additional spots announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for universities nationwide,” he told a press conference following the Vice-Chancellor’s 2026  New Year Address here today.

In addition to this, UTM is planning to build 2,000 student accommodation units on a 23.5-hectare site in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur.

The university is currently awaiting further details from the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) including collaboration with government-linked companies (GLCs) for the development of this accommodation.

“We have received planning approval, so once the go-ahead is given, the development will proceed.

“This initiative will not only benefit UTM students but also students from nearby universities who are in need of accommodation,” said Mohd Shafry.

He added that the university is prepared to roll out other initiatives as well, including free education for persons with disabilities (PWDs) as part of its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.

The RPTM, unveiled by the Prime Minister on Jan 20, includes provisions for the creation of 1,500 additional student places at public universities, free education for students with disabilities and the construction of 5,000 new student accommodation units through collaborations with universities and GLC investments.

-- BERNAMA