Good Governance for a Sustainable and Resilient UMS

UMS Governance, Ethics and Institutional Leadership

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) upholds the highest standards of governance, ethics, and institutional integrity as the foundation of its academic excellence and societal mission. Guided by principles of transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and responsibility, UMS ensures that every decision, policy, and action reflects its commitment to fair leadership and ethical stewardship. This governance framework supports effective risk management, data accountability, responsible financial practices, and compliance with national regulations, while ensuring alignment with global best practices in higher education.

Institutional leadership at UMS is driven by a shared vision—The Brain of Borneo—where the university functions not only as a centre of knowledge, but as a thought leader for sustainable development, societal wellbeing, and regional transformation. Through strong leadership structures, clear policy frameworks, and collaborative engagement with internal and external stakeholders, UMS cultivates a culture of trust, professionalism, and continuous improvement. Ethical leadership is embedded across all faculties, centres, and administrative units to ensure a cohesive and values-driven university ecosystem.

By prioritising governance excellence and ethical conduct, UMS strengthens its resilience, enhances institutional credibility, and positions itself as a responsible, future-ready university. This commitment empowers staff, students, and partners to contribute confidently to UMS’s long-term goals, ensuring that the university remains a model of good governance, academic integrity, and transformative leadership for Sabah, Malaysia, and the broader Borneo region.