AS the global economy increasingly demands upskilling and mental agility, the definition of a “classroom” has evolved.
Institutions like Open University Malaysia (OUM) reflect this shift, offering flexible learning models that allow working adults to pursue higher education without stepping away from their careers.
For more than two decades, the university has worked to dismantle the barriers between professional responsibilities and academic aspirations.
Next month, this journey reaches a significant milestone: more than 7,000 graduates will gather at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL) for OUM’s 30th Convocation.
Spanning four days from May 9 to 12, the event is more than a ceremony; it is proof of the university’s role as a flexible learning hub and a launchpad for diverse Malaysian ambitions.
Bridging industry and insight
Among the thousands of graduates this year is Kubrina Dass, a seasoned professional in the high-stakes world of sports marketing.
Since 2009, Dass has worked behind the scenes in the management of some of Malaysia’s most iconic sporting figures, including Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei and Datuk Nicol David.
Her role involves negotiating complex sponsorship deals and aligning brand identities with the grit and grace of national athletes.
Despite her success, Dass, 39, sought to deepen her understanding of human behaviour to better navigate her career.
She chose to pursue a Master of Psychology at OUM, a decision driven by the need for academic rigour that could coexist with a demanding work schedule.
“I negotiate deals with brands and convince them why a national athlete will bring meaning and value to their campaigns,” Dass explains.
“My studies taught me how to navigate through many characters, how to keep my head up, and the importance of remaining humble.”
The turning point for Dass was OUM’s accessibility. Having been accepted into a conventional full-time master’s programme elsewhere, she realised that physical attendance requirements were incompatible with her career.
“I needed a university that was recognised, approved by the Higher Education Ministry, and built for working adults,” she recalls.
“With OUM, I could take my classes anywhere. Even in the middle of a Kuala Lumpur traffic jam, I could log in through my phone. As all the lectures are recorded, I could study anywhere anytime.”
The ageless pursuit of knowledge
While Dass represents the mid-career professional looking for an edge, Dr Abdul Malik Yusoff, 70, proves that the thirst for knowledge has no expiration date.
A veteran in the medical field, Dr Malik recently completed his Master of Occupational Safety and Health Risk Management.
With a long career in occupational health and clinical practice, Dr Malik has been a clinic director since 1994 and since last year, also serves as a board member for a marketing firm.
For Dr Malik, OUM’s Open, Distance and Digital Education (ODDE) model was the only logical choice.
“I chose OUM because it champions lifelong learning,” he says. “The model allowed me to study without putting my ongoing professional contributions on hold.”
He notes that the OUM environment is uniquely tailored to mature students.
“There was a genuine sense of camaraderie in our forums. We weren’t just students; we were professionals sharing lived experiences.
“At OUM, past experience isn’t just a memory, it becomes a powerful academic asset,” he adds.
A legacy of quality and accessibility
Dass and Dr Malik’s experiences reflect a broader body of approximately 140,000 graduates whom OUM has nurtured since its inception in 2000.
Established by a consortium of Malaysia’s first 11 public universities, OUM has stayed true to its motto of “University for All.”
Today, the university operates five distinct faculties:
- Education
- Business and Management
- Technology and Applied Sciences
- Computing and Analytics
- Social Sciences and Humanities
With over 60 programmes accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and recognised by various professional bodies, the university ensures that flexible learning is supported by recognised academic standards.
While the learning delivery – assignments, lectures, and examinations – is fully online, OUM maintains a human touch through 35 Learning Centres nationwide.
These centres act as focal points for students who require face-to-face support or a dedicated space for academic consultation.
The future of learning
As the 7,000 graduates prepare to walk across the stage at WTCKL this May, they represent the enduring spirit of a Malaysia that is constantly learning.
Whether they are young parents, corporate leaders, or retirees, these graduates prove that the traditional constraints of time and geography are no longer obstacles to self-improvement.
For those inspired by the success of the Class of 2026, the door remains open. Whether you are looking to advance your career like Dass or formalise decades of experience like Dr Malik, OUM provides the framework to turn your ambition into reality.
To find out more about OUM programmes and how to kick-start your own learning journey, call 03-7801 2000, email admission@oum.edu.my, or visit www.oum.edu.my
