Open University Malaysia (OUM) was founded to provide higher education opportunities to those who believe that acquiring new knowledge and skills is a valuable investment for their career and future. Established in August 2000, the University is owned by Multimedia Technology Enhancement Operations Sdn Bhd (METEOR), a consortium of the first 11 public universities in Malaysia, but functions as a private institution.

As the nation’s premier open and distance learning institution, OUM offers an alternative pathway to quality higher education that allows learners to study without compromising their work or personal responsibilities.

Having been in operation for over two decades, the University has cumulatively enrolled more than 180,000 learners from diverse backgrounds, such as teachers, nurses, uniformed personnel, entrepreneurs, corporate executives, celebrities and even prison inmates. To date, the University has produced about 85,000 graduates.

At OUM, the learner-centred approach emphasises accessibility, affordability and flexibility. Learners can study independently using myINSPIRE, the University’s learning management system, which allows them to manage their schedules, access learning resources and interact with their peers and tutors via online forums.

Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, the University has also initiated the fully online mode since March 2020. Classes, examinations, presentations, discussions and even viva voce sessions have successfully taken place virtually, thus proving that with the right technology, tools and infrastructure, anyone, anywhere can learn at OUM.

Recognised by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency, Public Service Department and various professional bodies, the University offers programmes from diploma to PhD levels, covering a broad range of disciplines in business and management, applied sciences, and education and social sciences. Among its most popular programmes are in the fields of business administration, early childhood education and Islamic studies.