Studying Mechanical Engineering in Malaysia: Every Pathway You Need to Know About
Ethan Quar
August 17, 2025
Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest and most versatile branches of engineering. It encompasses the design, analysis, and manufacturing of a wide range of products, including engines, machines, robotics, energy systems, and industrial automation.
If you plan to pursue a career in mechanical engineering in Malaysia, this guide outlines the primary academic pathways available to you. Whether you prefer local education, an international twinning route, or a foreign university branch campus in Malaysia, we’ve broken down the options to help you make a practical, informed decision.
Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile fields, spanning engines, robotics, automation, aerospace, and energy systems.
Degrees in Malaysia are usually four years long, with compulsory industrial training to gain real-world experience.
You can pursue a full local degree, a twinning/dual award program, or study at a foreign university branch campus in Malaysia.
BEM accreditation is crucial for those aiming to become Professional Engineers in Malaysia.
The Washington Accord recognition helps graduates from accredited programs pursue careers abroad.
Career prospects include roles in manufacturing, automotive design, energy, aerospace, and advanced technologies.
In Malaysia, mechanical engineering degrees are typically offered as either a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) or a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Hons), depending on the university.
These programmes usually take four years to complete and include mandatory industrial training, where students are placed with companies for hands-on experience, often lasting a full semester or more.
To register as a professional engineer in Malaysia, you must graduate from a programme that is accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).
Local Private Universities (Fully in Malaysia)
Many private institutions in Malaysia offer complete mechanical engineering degrees that are fully accredited by BEM. These are a popular option for students seeking a local, cost-effective degree with strong industry connections.
| University | Local Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) | International Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
UNITEN | RM 95,000 | RM 98,000 |
MSU | RM 60,000 - 65,000 | RM 60,000 - 65,000 |
UCSI University | RM 99,440 | RM 116,315 |
UTAR | RM 65,100 | RM 95,300 |
INTI | RM 90,783 | RM 90,783 |
SEGi University | RM 83,475 | RM 85,475 |
MAHSA | RM 74,100 | RM 78,500 |
Twinning/ Transfer & Dual Award Programs (2+2, 3+1, 4+0)
Some universities offer mechanical engineering programmes through international partnerships with foreign universities. These arrangements typically take one of three forms:
- 2+2 – Two years in Malaysia, two years abroad
- 3+1 – Three years in Malaysia, one year abroad
- 4+0 – All four years in Malaysia, but the degree is awarded by a foreign university
| University | Partner University | Local Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) | International Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
University of Southampton | University of Southampton (UK branch) | RM 370,352 | RM 386,852 |
Taylor’s University | University of Birmingham, University of Sheffield, University of Leeds, Cardiff University, The University of Queensland, University of South Australia, The University of Adelaide, UNSW Sydney, The University of Western Australia, Queensland University of Technology, Australian National University | AUD 51,200 | AUD 51,200 |
Asia Pacific University | De Montfort University | RM118,800 | RM133,200 |
These pathways are ideal for students who want international exposure or a foreign degree, without the full cost of studying overseas from start to finish.
Foreign University Branch Campuses in Malaysia
Malaysia hosts several branch campuses of international universities. These offer mechanical engineering degrees identical to those at their home campuses, but with lower tuition and living costs.
Students benefit from international curricula and global brand recognition, all while staying in Malaysia.
| University | Home Country | Local Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) | International Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
Monash University | Australia | RM 213,120 | RM 251,520 |
Heriot-Watt Malaysia | UK | RM 180,000 | RM 216,000 |
University of Nottingham Malaysia | UK | RM 220,000 | RM 260,000 |
Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus | Australia | RM 152,000 | RM 192,640 |
Curtin University | Australia | RM 135,600 | RM 202,400 |
Accreditation and Why It Matters
To become a Professional Engineer (Ir.) in Malaysia, you must graduate from a programme accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM). This accreditation enables you to register as a Graduate Engineer and subsequently sit for the professional assessment exam.
If you’re considering a foreign programme (via twinning or a branch campus), check if the qualification is also recognised under the Washington Accord. This international agreement facilitates engineering mobility among countries such as Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US.
Final Thoughts
Mechanical engineering opens doors to a wide range of careers in manufacturing, energy, aerospace, automation, automotive design, and more. Whether you pursue your degree locally or through an international pathway, choosing the right programme with the proper accreditation will ensure your qualification is respected, both in Malaysia and abroad.
This guide is just the beginning. Use it to plan your next steps, compare institutions, and decide which route fits your goals best.
For a complete listing of mechanical engineering courses in Malaysia, please click here
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