IMU University Kuala Lumpur
What IMU is
The International Medical University (IMU) is a medical and health sciences university in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur. It is known for its academic programmes, international collaborations, research and community engagement. IMU is described as Malaysia’s first private medical university.
History
IMU’s origins date to 1991, when Datuk Dr. Kamal Salih, Dr. Mei Ling Young and the late Dr. Saidi Hashim envisioned a private medical college to meet Malaysia’s healthcare education needs. Medical educators Professor Ron Harden and Professor Ian Hart supported the development of an innovative curriculum (IMU Convo 2010 PDF).
The International Medical College (IMC) was inaugurated in 1992, and its first intake of 75 medical students began in 1993 (Afterschool.my). IMU is also described as founded in 1992. On February 4, 1999, IMC was granted university status and became the International Medical University. This enabled it to offer its own medical degree (MBBS) and provide clinical training locally and through international partnerships. The Clinical School in Seremban was established to support practical training. On January 1, 2000, IMU moved to a purpose-built campus in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, with facilities for teaching and research.
IMU pioneered a “twinning” model with more than 30 universities across Australasia and the UK. Students undertake pre-clinical studies at IMU and may complete clinical training at partner institutions abroad. An Academic Council that includes representatives from partner universities oversees curriculum quality and global relevance.
Beyond medicine, IMU introduced Southeast Asia’s first complete chiropractic programme in Malaysia and offers degrees in Chinese Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry and other health sciences. Its programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and relevant professional councils.
The Institute for Research, Development and Innovation (IRDI) leads multidisciplinary healthcare research. The IMU Cares Programme involves students and staff in community outreach, health campaigns and social responsibility initiatives (IMU News).
IMU is led by a President, Pro-Chancellor and Academic Council. Its founding Chancellor, the late YABhg Tun Dr. Mohamed Zahir Haji Ismail, played a pivotal role in shaping the university’s direction.
Another Kuala Lumpur landmark covered in this guide is Menara KL (Kuala Lumpur Tower). Built in 1995 for telecommunications, it rises 421 meters above the capital and has become a symbol of the city’s progress. It hosts events such as the International Towerthon Challenge and cultural exhibitions throughout the year.
What to see
IMU campus
The Bukit Jalil campus has modern lecture halls, simulation labs, research centres, libraries and student amenities. Campus highlights include:
- Medical Museum Exhibits on healthcare history; access is free.
- Innovation Hub Research and industry collaboration.
- Library Modern academic resources.
Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL)
Menara KL offers panoramic city views and includes:
- Sky Deck An outdoor platform with city views.
- Observation Deck A place for photography and sightseeing.
- Revolving Restaurant Dining with a 360° panorama.
- Mini Zoo.
Guided tours cover the tower’s history and significance.
Practical visiting information
IMU University
Location: IMU Bukit Jalil Campus, Kuala Lumpur.
The visitor information lists two schedules:
- Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM; closed Sundays and public holidays.
- Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed weekends and public holidays.
General visits and Medical Museum entry are free. Special events may require advance registration. Guided campus tours are available by appointment via [email protected] or by calling +60 3-2731 7272; another listing says to arrange tours through the visitor center. IMU regularly hosts public lectures, exhibitions and health campaigns open to visitors; its events calendar is online.
The campus is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and facilities for visitors with disabilities. Public transportation connects the campus to Kuala Lumpur’s city centre.
Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL)
- Open daily 9:00 AM–10:00 PM.
- Last admission 9:30 PM.
- Tickets Adults MYR 49; children aged 3–12 years MYR 29; senior citizens aged 60+ MYR 29.
- Tickets are available online or at the entrance. Combo passes for the observation deck, mini zoo and aquarium are also offered.
- Special hours may apply during festive seasons.
Tips
- IMU visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera for the campus architecture and check for special events before visiting.
- Menara KL is accessible by Bukit Nanas Monorail and city buses. It is wheelchair-friendly, with elevators and ramps.
- Sunset is listed as a good time to visit Menara KL for the views. Tripods are allowed on the observation deck.
Nearby places
Kuala Lumpur sites mentioned alongside IMU and Menara KL include:
- Merdeka Square Site of Malaysia’s independence declaration.
- Sultan Abdul Samad Building An iconic colonial-era landmark.
- Jamek Mosque Among Kuala Lumpur’s oldest mosques.
- Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia.
- Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply to IMU?
Submit an application online via the IMU admissions portal.
What are IMU’s visiting hours?
The listed schedules are Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM and Saturday, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM, with closure on Sundays and public holidays; another listing gives Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, with weekends and public holidays closed.
Are campus tours available?
Yes. Tours are available by appointment. Email [email protected] or arrange one through the visitor center.
Is there an entrance fee at IMU?
General visits and Medical Museum entry are free. Special events may require registration.
Can I visit IMU on weekends?
One listing gives Saturday hours of 9:00 AM–1:00 PM; another says the campus is open Monday–Friday only.
Is the campus wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The campus is described as fully accessible, with ramps and facilities for visitors with disabilities.
What nearby attractions can I visit?
Merdeka Square, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Jamek Mosque, Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia and Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve are among the listed Kuala Lumpur sites.
Further information is available at IMU University History and Visitor Information | Kuala Lumpur Medical Education Hub and Visiting IMU University: A Unique Educational Landmark in Kuala Lumpur.
