KOTA SAMARAHAN – Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) has launched its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, positioning itself as a university with global impact while staying grounded in Borneo’s heritage. The plan highlights sustainability and innovation as central drivers of transformation.
The framework, called I-D-E-A, focuses on Inspiring People, Driving Innovation, Enhancing Global Influence and Advancing Sustainability. It reflects UNIMAS’s goal of remaining internationally relevant while preserving its local identity.
Vice-Chancellor Ahmad Hata Rasit described the plan as a compass for navigating future challenges in higher education.
“This university is not just an isolated ivory tower but a hub of knowledge and expertise that drives regional development and community well-being. Based on the principle of Borneo Rooted: Global Impact, we are committed to building an educational ecosystem that produces graduates who are critical thinkers, balanced in spirit, and have a love for the homeland and universal humanity,” he said during the Vice-Chancellor’s 2026 Mandate Ceremony at the Gemilang Arena DeTAR UNIMAS.
The launch was officiated by Sulong Matjeraie, Chairman of the UNIMAS Board of Directors. UNIMAS recorded several achievements in 2025, including ranking 101–200 in the THE Impact Rankings, becoming Malaysia’s first public university to publish a comprehensive Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report, and establishing Sarawak’s first Faculty of Law, set to welcome students in 2026/2027. Seven researchers were also recognised among the world’s top two percent of experts.
International recognition came with the Grand Award at the Malaysia International HR Awards 2025, along with other accolades for excellence in human resource management.
Looking ahead, UNIMAS plans to roll out initiatives in 2026, such as the SmartFlex Ecosystem, emphasising sustainability, gerontology and indigenous knowledge.
The Global Futures Transdisciplinary Institute will be established, alongside two new research centres focused on bioinnovation and archaeological heritage.
Digital transformation will be advanced through the SYNTERA application to enhance data-driven student services. Student welfare programmes, including SULUNG 2.0+ and Dapur Siswa Madani, will also be expanded to provide holistic support for learners.
The ceremony included senior university leaders, including Fitri Suraya Mohamad Hapni Joblie, Siti Noor Linda Taib, Al-Khalid Othman, Ramlah Zainudin, and Datu Ik Pahon Joyik, highlighting collective commitment to advancing UNIMAS’s vision.
The strategic plan underscores UNIMAS’s commitment to empowering graduates, enhancing research excellence and contributing to sustainable global development while remaining deeply connected to Sarawak’s identity.
