Guidelines for the Appointment of Visiting Scholar at Universiti Malaya
Universiti Malaya (UM) welcomes the appointment of Visiting Scholar, which includes Visiting Professors, Visiting Associate Professors, Visiting Lecturers, and Visiting Language Teachers. The following guidelines apply:
1. Qualifications
- Visiting Professors, Associate Professors, and Lecturers must hold a PhD or a Clinical Master (for appointments in the Faculties of Medicine or Dentistry). Exceptions may be made for individuals with recognised expertise and outstanding reputation.
- Visiting Language Teachers must hold at least a Bachelor's Degree in language teaching or a related field, with a minimum of three (3) years of teaching experience.
2. Publications
Candidates must meet the minimum publication requirements set in UM's Standard Academic Performance Targets, based on the equivalent local academic rank. This does not apply to Visiting Language Teachers.
3. Age Limit
Candidates must be below 65 years of age at the time of appointment.
4. Duration and Status of Appointment
Appointments are for one (1) year, with a maximum of two visits. Each visit must be at least five (5) working days. Extensions may be considered if services are still required. All appointments are on a visiting basis and are not part of the civil service scheme.
5. Research and Responsibilities
Visiting staff are expected to:
Deliver lectures, seminars, and workshops. Conduct classes/tutorials for degree programmes (independently or jointly). Undertake research and contribute to publications indexed in Web of Science (WoS) with UM affiliation.
Serve as advisors to the Faculty/Department.
Co-supervise or consult postgraduate students (where relevant).
Uphold UM's image, respect national sensitivities, and avoid issues relating to race, religion, and royalty.
Visiting Language Teachers focus primarily on teaching, advising PTj, and supporting language-related activities.
6. Honorarium, Allowances, and Benefits
Honorarium: Ranges from RM250- RM500/day (for visits under 20 days) or RM5,000- RM10,000/month (for visits of 20 days or more), depending on rank.
Accommodation: UM may provide housing, or reimbursement up to RM350/night (short- term) or RM3,000/month (long- term).
Airfare: Round- trip economy airfare (shortest route) is provided for overseas candidates only. Excess baggage not covered.
No medical benefits, salary increments, or leave entitlements are provided. Insurance is the candidate's responsibility.
7. Administrative Matters
Office space, telephone, and computer facilities may be provided if necessary.
All visa, work pass, and professional pass requirements are subject to prevailing laws. The appointing PTj must provide a Personal Bond if required. Applications are processed by the Human Talent Management Centre (HTM).
Visiting staff are subject to Malaysian income tax (LHDN).
8. Funding
Appointments may be funded by the Registrar's Office, Chancellery, the appointing PTj, or verified external sponsors.
9. Termination of Appointment
UM reserves the right to terminate the appointment immediately without notice if the candidate fails to perform duties, provides false information, or acts against the interests of the University or the country. Otherwise, either party may terminate the appointment with one (1) month's notice.
10. Appointing Authority
All Visiting Scholar appointments are made by the Vice- Chancellor of Universiti Malaya.
1. Any exemption from the above conditions is subject to the discretion of the Appointing Authority (PBM).
2. Applications must be submitted at least six (6) months before the visit date. Please email your interest at umlaw_research@um.edu.my.
3. Honorarium and related claims (if any) will be paid directly into the candidate's bank account registered in the FIRST system after the visit concludes.
