(Bandar Seri Begawan, 13th) Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) has been ranked seventh in Southeast Asia in the recently released inaugural pilot report of Times Higher Education (THE) Southeast Asia University Rankings, becoming the only university in Brunei to make it to the top ten.
In comparison with 104 ranked institutions from ASEAN member states, UBD’s ranking is not only a recognition of its current achievements, but also indicates the future direction of Brunei’s higher education development.
This marks the first time that Times Higher Education has specifically applied its globally recognized ranking methodology to the Southeast Asian region. THE describes the area as “one of the world’s most dynamic emerging hubs for research and innovation.” UBD appears alongside universities from Singapore and Malaysia among the top ranks of the inaugural list, reflecting its continued and prudent investment in research quality, academic rigour, and clear institutional goals.
The significance of UBD entering the top ten goes well beyond the ranking itself. Southeast Asia, with its 700 million people and rising academic ambition, is home to some of the fastest-growing research institutions in the world. The recognition from this inaugural evaluation reflects the university’s commitment to depth over breadth and impact over quantity.
UBD stands out for its mission. As a relatively small university in a nation of fewer than 500,000 people, its research output far exceeds its size. Its research quality score reaches 80.5 points (out of a maximum 100), placing it at the forefront in the region—a testament to the global impact and reach of UBD’s published academic output. These research works are read, cited, and referenced globally.
“This honour belongs to every member of UBD—from researchers who pose challenging questions, to educators shaping the next generation of thinkers, to students who carry the torch of research forward,” said UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr. Kifli. “This affirms that a university rooted in the values of the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) can claim a place on the world stage. This is our journey, and we are far from finished.”
Brunei may be a small country, but it has an immense passion for knowledge. UBD’s position in this ranking is the embodiment of such passion, and proves that world-class research and teaching stem from focus, determination, and the competitive spirit to take on responsibility.
With THE set to launch a more comprehensive and inclusive Southeast Asia university ranking—aimed at lowering entry barriers and covering a wider range of institutions—UBD is advancing from a position of strength into the future. UBD will continue to expand international research collaborations, deepen ties with industry and government partners, and nurture graduates who can contribute to Brunei’s Vision 2035 and future growth.
This pilot ranking is based on data from the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings and is limited to institutions from all ASEAN member countries. The ranking uses the same rigorous framework as for global institutions, evaluating nearly 200 universities on 17 weighted performance indicators, covering teaching, research environment, research quality, industry partnerships, and international outlook. THE has confirmed plans to release an official, more comprehensive version of the rankings in the coming years.
In comparison with 104 ranked institutions from ASEAN member states, UBD’s ranking is not only a recognition of its current achievements, but also indicates the future direction of Brunei’s higher education development.
This marks the first time that Times Higher Education has specifically applied its globally recognized ranking methodology to the Southeast Asian region. THE describes the area as “one of the world’s most dynamic emerging hubs for research and innovation.” UBD appears alongside universities from Singapore and Malaysia among the top ranks of the inaugural list, reflecting its continued and prudent investment in research quality, academic rigour, and clear institutional goals.
UBD stands out for its mission. As a relatively small university in a nation of fewer than 500,000 people, its research output far exceeds its size. Its research quality score reaches 80.5 points (out of a maximum 100), placing it at the forefront in the region—a testament to the global impact and reach of UBD’s published academic output. These research works are read, cited, and referenced globally.
“This honour belongs to every member of UBD—from researchers who pose challenging questions, to educators shaping the next generation of thinkers, to students who carry the torch of research forward,” said UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr. Kifli. “This affirms that a university rooted in the values of the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) can claim a place on the world stage. This is our journey, and we are far from finished.”
Brunei may be a small country, but it has an immense passion for knowledge. UBD’s position in this ranking is the embodiment of such passion, and proves that world-class research and teaching stem from focus, determination, and the competitive spirit to take on responsibility.
With THE set to launch a more comprehensive and inclusive Southeast Asia university ranking—aimed at lowering entry barriers and covering a wider range of institutions—UBD is advancing from a position of strength into the future. UBD will continue to expand international research collaborations, deepen ties with industry and government partners, and nurture graduates who can contribute to Brunei’s Vision 2035 and future growth.
This pilot ranking is based on data from the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings and is limited to institutions from all ASEAN member countries. The ranking uses the same rigorous framework as for global institutions, evaluating nearly 200 universities on 17 weighted performance indicators, covering teaching, research environment, research quality, industry partnerships, and international outlook. THE has confirmed plans to release an official, more comprehensive version of the rankings in the coming years.