Top Universities in South East Asia

In 2009, the Ranking Web of World Universities, also known as Webometrics, assessed universities across the globe based on their web presence and online impact, among other factors such as research output and visibility. The ranking highlighted a growing focus on digital engagement, academic performance, and research excellence. Within the Southeast Asia region, universities from countries like Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia were well-represented, underscoring the region's increasing prominence in higher education globally.

At the forefront of Southeast Asia's academic institutions was the National University of Singapore (NUS), ranked 135th in the world in 2009. NUS consistently ranks as the top university in the region due to its academic excellence, research capabilities, and global reputation. Known for its strong faculties in engineering, business, life sciences, and social sciences, NUS has become a leader in higher education not only in Southeast Asia but also internationally. The university’s emphasis on cutting-edge research and its extensive international collaborations have contributed to its leading position in both regional and global rankings.

Following NUS, Prince of Songkla University in Thailand was ranked 295th globally. This institution has established itself as a major academic hub in Thailand, offering a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Known for its contributions to fields such as medicine, agriculture, and engineering, Prince of Songkla University has also fostered international research partnerships and exchanges, which have helped enhance its academic standing in the region.

Chulalongkorn University, also in Thailand, was ranked 369th in the world in the 2009 Webometrics rankings. As one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Thailand, Chulalongkorn University has long been recognized for its strong academic programs in various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, engineering, and business. The university’s focus on research and its prominent position within Thai society have solidified its standing as a key institution in Southeast Asia.

Kasetsart University, another leading institution in Thailand, was ranked 418th globally. Known for its agricultural programs and research in environmental sciences, Kasetsart University plays a crucial role in the development of Thailand’s agricultural sector. The university’s diverse range of academic disciplines, coupled with its research initiatives, contribute to its reputation as an important regional academic institution.

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore was ranked 442nd in the world in the 2009 Webometrics ranking. NTU has gained a strong reputation for its engineering, technology, and business programs, and it is known for its cutting-edge research, especially in fields like renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and robotics. The university’s emphasis on innovation and its growing global partnerships make it a prominent player in Southeast Asia’s higher education landscape.

Mahidol University, ranked 548th globally, is another important academic institution in Thailand. It is particularly well-regarded for its contributions to medicine, public health, and life sciences. Mahidol’s medical school is considered one of the best in the region, and the university’s research in health sciences plays a significant role in addressing local and global health challenges.

Gadjah Mada University in Indonesia, ranked 623rd globally, is one of the largest and most influential universities in Indonesia. Located in Yogyakarta, the university is known for its academic programs in the arts, engineering, and social sciences, and it has established itself as a key research institution in Southeast Asia. Gadjah Mada’s commitment to education and its emphasis on community development have helped enhance its standing in the region.

Chiang Mai University, ranked 633rd, is a prominent institution in northern Thailand. The university offers a broad range of programs and is known for its research in environmental science, agriculture, and the arts. Chiang Mai University has played an important role in the development of northern Thailand and is increasingly gaining recognition in international academic circles.

Thammasat University, also located in Thailand, was ranked 675th globally in 2009. Thammasat is well known for its strong academic programs in law, political science, and economics. It has produced many influential leaders in Thai politics and public service and is a respected institution in the Southeast Asian region.

Finally, the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) in Indonesia, ranked 676th, is a leading technical university in Southeast Asia. ITB is known for its engineering, architecture, and design programs. The university’s focus on technology and innovation has made it a key player in Indonesia’s higher education system.

Ranking of Top 50 universities in South East Asia region, according to the Ranking Web of World Universities:

Regional Rank, World Rank, Institution

1. 135 National University of Singapore
   
2. 295 Prince of Songkla University
   
3. 369 Chulalongkorn University
   
4. 418 Kasetsart University
   
5. 442 Nanyang Technological University
   
6. 548 Mahidol University
   
7. 623 Gadjah Mada University
   
8. 633 Chiang Mai University
   
9. 675 Thammasat University
   
10. 676 Institute of Technology Bandung
    
11. 680 Khon Kaen University
    
12. 709 Asian Institute of Technology Thailand
    
13. 845 Universiti Sains Malaysia
    
14. 868 King Mongkuts University of Technology
    
15. 906 University of Indonesia
    
16. 917 University of the Philippines Diliman
    
17. 920 Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
    
18. 962 University of Malaya
    
19. 1049 King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang
    
20. 1053 Universiti Putra Malaysia
    
21. 1146 Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
    
22. 1171 Srinakharinwirot University
    
23. 1181 Naresuan University
    
24. 1220 Assumption University of Thailand
    
25. 1222 Silpakorn University
    
26. 1230 Multimedia University
    
27. 1271 Suranaree University of Technology
    
28. 1278 Burapha University
    
29. 1340 Universiti Teknologi Mara
    
30. 1392 Ramkhamhaeng University
    
31. 1393 Mahasarakham University
    
32. 1444 International Islamic University Malaysia
    
33. 1522 Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology
    
34. 1554 University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce
    
35. 1596 Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Sciences
    
36. 1600 De la Salle University Manila
    
37. 1604 Gunadarma University
    
38. 1630 Universiti Utara Malaysia
    
39. 1698 Can Tho University
    
40. 1714 Ubonratchathani University
    
41. 1732 Vietnam National University
    
42. 1736 Bangkok University
    
43. 1756 Sripatum University
    
44. 1762 Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember
    
45. 1768 Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University
    
46. 1866 Sdusuan Dusit Rajabhat University
    
47. 1905 National Institute of Development Administration
    
48. 1960 Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Telko
    
49. 1968 Walailak University
    
50. 1992 Ateneo de Manila University
    

Source: Cybermetrics Lab (2009). Regional and Global Ranking of South-East Asia region. CCHS-CSIC, Madrid, Spain - www.webometrics.info