General Studies Courses (MPU) are a mandatory component in Malaysia's higher education curriculum introduced by the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE). General Courses at Universiti Malaya are based on the Second Edition of the General Studies Courses (MPU) Guidelines issued by the Ministry of Higher Education in December 2016.
At Universiti Malaya, MPU courses are governed by the Centre for Integral Learning (CITRA), which is responsible for the planning, coordination, and implementation of MPU courses across all academic programs offered by the University.
General Studies Courses (MPU) are designed to encompass aspects of knowledge dissemination such as communication skills, soft skills, appreciation of noble values and history, and exposure to broader general knowledge fields beyond traditional academic disciplines. This includes exposure to new fields such as arts, philosophy, and foreign languages. The emphasis on expanding general studies aligns fundamentally with the goal of producing broad-minded, balanced, and holistic graduates.
General studies refer to undergraduate educational programs aimed at equipping students with foundational knowledge for living in modern society. This knowledge includes an understanding of noble values, history, and societal responsibilities, mastery of soft skills, expansion of Malaysia-centric knowledge, and the ability to apply knowledge in daily life.
Students in higher education institutions require specific intellectual competencies that enable them to play a meaningful role in society. General studies aim to equip students with specific competencies while providing exposure to various intellectual skill traits. General studies courses also serve as complementary courses to those offered in students' specialization programs.
Last Update: 18/09/2026