Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) is one of the prominent public universities in Malaysia, located in Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, on the island of Borneo. Established on December 24, 1992, UNIMAS is Malaysia’s 8th public university, and it is dedicated to producing high-quality graduates, advancing research, and contributing to the development of the nation. Over the years, UNIMAS has built a strong reputation for its academic excellence and innovation, and it continues to offer world-class education and research opportunities to students from all over the world.

History and Background of UNIMAS

UNIMAS was established to meet the growing need for higher education institutions in Sarawak and to cater to the increasing demand for skilled professionals. The university was created to serve not only the state of Sarawak but also the wider region of Borneo, providing educational opportunities and advancing knowledge in diverse fields.

Since its establishment, UNIMAS has grown significantly in terms of both its academic offerings and infrastructure. The university has developed a strong focus on applied research, particularly in the fields of biodiversity, environmental conservation, ICT, and community development, making significant contributions to both local and global communities.

Academic Programs at UNIMAS

UNIMAS offers a wide range of academic programs through its various faculties. The university’s curriculum is designed to cater to the evolving needs of the job market and equips students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in their careers.

🎯 Undergraduate Programs

UNIMAS provides undergraduate degrees in multiple disciplines, including:

• Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts:
  
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
    
  • Bachelor of Design
    
  • Bachelor of Performing Arts
    
• Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development:
  
  • Bachelor of Psychology
    
  • Bachelor of Human Development
    
• Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology:
  
  • Bachelor of Computer Science
    
  • Bachelor of Information Systems
    
• Faculty of Economics and Business:
  
  • Bachelor of Business Administration
    
  • Bachelor of Accounting
    
  • Bachelor of Economics
    
• Faculty of Engineering:
  
  • Bachelor of Civil Engineering
    
  • Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering
    
  • Bachelor of Electrical Engineering
    
• Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences:
  
  • Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
    
  • Bachelor of Nursing
    
  • Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Technology
    
• Faculty of Resource Science and Technology:
  
  • Bachelor of Environmental Science
    
  • Bachelor of Resource Science and Technology
    
• Faculty of Social Science:
  
  • Bachelor of Sociology
    
  • Bachelor of Anthropology
    

These programs are designed to offer both academic knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that students are well-prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation.

🎓 Postgraduate Programs

UNIMAS also offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including:

• Master’s Degrees in various fields, including Business Administration (MBA), Engineering, Education, and Social Sciences.
  
• Doctoral Degrees (Ph.D.) in many disciplines, enabling students to pursue advanced research and contribute to their respective fields.
  

Research and Innovation at UNIMAS

UNIMAS has a strong emphasis on research and innovation, with particular focus on three major areas:

1. Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation

Sarawak, known for its rich natural resources and unique biodiversity, provides the perfect setting for biodiversity and environmental research. The university actively engages in studies on sustainable development, conservation of natural resources, and the preservation of endangered species in the region.

2. Information Communication and Creative Technology (ICT)

UNIMAS is at the forefront of research in ICT, focusing on innovations that contribute to the development of smart cities, digital health, and creative industries. The university’s Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology works on cutting-edge projects in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and software development.

3. Sustainable Community Transformation

UNIMAS also focuses on research that helps improve the quality of life in local communities. The university aims to develop sustainable strategies for community development, including socio-economic improvements, rural development, and indigenous community welfare.

The Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation and the Institute of Health and Community Medicine are among the leading research institutes at UNIMAS.

Campus and Facilities

UNIMAS is located in Kota Samarahan, approximately 35 km from Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak. The main campus spans across 1,000 acres, offering a serene and green environment for academic pursuits. The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities to support both academic learning and extracurricular activities.

📚 Key Facilities at UNIMAS:

• Lecture Halls and Laboratories: Equipped with modern technology and resources to support interactive learning and hands-on training.
  
• Libraries: The university’s libraries house an extensive collection of books, journals, and digital resources, supporting research and academic work.
  
• Student Accommodation: UNIMAS provides a variety of on-campus housing options for students, ensuring a comfortable and conducive environment for studying.
  
• Sports and Recreation Facilities: These include a sports complex, gymnasium, football fields, and basketball courts, promoting physical fitness and recreational activities.
  
• Research Facilities: The university is home to numerous research centers, particularly in areas such as environmental science, ICT, and social sciences, which support academic innovation.
  

Rankings and Recognition

Despite being a relatively young institution, UNIMAS has earned recognition for its academic excellence:

• QS World University Rankings 2025: UNIMAS is ranked within the 1001-1200 range globally, reflecting its growing prominence in the higher education landscape. (Source)
  
• QS Asian University Rankings 2017: UNIMAS was ranked among the top 200 universities in Asia, underlining its strong academic standing within the region.
  

UNIMAS is also recognized for its excellence in research, particularly in biodiversity and sustainable community development.

Student Life at UNIMAS

UNIMAS offers a vibrant and inclusive student life, with various extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies for students to engage in. The university encourages students to develop holistically by participating in activities outside of academics. These include:

• Cultural and Social Clubs: UNIMAS has a diverse student body, and students can join clubs related to arts, sports, and culture.
  
• Sports Activities: The university offers numerous sports activities, and students often participate in inter-university competitions.
  
• Community Engagement: Students are also encouraged to engage in community service projects, contributing to the development and welfare of local communities.
  

Scholarships and Financial Aid at UNIMAS

UNIMAS provides various scholarships and financial assistance programs for both local and international students. Some of the available scholarships include:

• UNIMAS Excellence Scholarship: Awarded to outstanding students based on academic performance.
  
• Financial Assistance Programs: For students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
  
• External Scholarships: Students can also apply for external scholarships from the government and various private organizations to support their studies at UNIMAS.
  

Contact Information

For more information regarding admissions, programs, and research opportunities, you can contact UNIMAS:

• Address:
  Jalan Datuk Mohammad Musa, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia.
  
• Phone:
  +6082 581 000
  
• Email:
  info@unimas.my
  
• Website

Why Choose UNIMAS?

• Strong Academic Foundation: UNIMAS offers diverse and high-quality programs across various disciplines.
  
• Research Excellence: The university is known for its innovative research, especially in biodiversity, ICT, and community development.
  
• Global Recognition: UNIMAS ranks among the top universities globally and in Asia.
  
• Student-Centered Environment: Students are encouraged to develop both academically and personally, with plenty of extracurricular activities available.
  
• Financial Support: UNIMAS offers scholarships and financial aid to help students complete their education.
  

Conclusion

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) is a leading public university that stands out for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and student development. Whether you are interested in biodiversity research, engineering, ICT, or social sciences, UNIMAS provides an ideal environment for both local and international students to grow and succeed.