The Crest
The crest of USM, featuring the crescent and star, the two tigers, the shield and the motto, reflects the Malaysian identity from which the University draws its inspiration and support. The University's role as a national institution is reflected in the other symbols of the crest.
The crescent symbolises the authority of Islam, the official religion of Malaysia. The fourteen-pointed star signifies the unity of the thirteen states and the Federal Government of Malaysia.
The two tigers, national symbols of Malaysia, symbolise strength. The two golden palm fronds signify economic prosperity.
The shield, a universal symbol of protection, held by the tigers, is a traditional instrument of the indigenous people of Malaysia. Purple, signifying high rank, is the official colour of the University.
The open book on the shield represents knowledge associated with the University. The two keris, signifying the authority
and power of royalty, are the traditional weapons of the Malays.
The hibiscus on the shield is the national flower of Malaysia.
Overall, the crest is underpinned by the motto
“KAMI MEMIMPIN” (WE LEAD), which reflects
the University's role in advancing knowledge, teaching, research and community service.
The Logotype
The letter S in white is placed between the letters U and M
in purple.
The official USM logotype is designed as a combination of three letters, symbolising the cohesiveness of USM as an organisation. The letter S is white and flanked by the purple letters U and M, the official colour of the University.
The use of the letter S in white symbolises the state of well-being (Sejahtera) within the campus community, as well as clarity of thought and intellectual enthusiasm among its members.
The letter S also signifies the Sciences (Sains) and Arts (Sastera). Its symmetrical form symbolises a sense of balance and harmony in the quest for knowledge.
The letter S**, with openings at the top and bottom,** represents our “out-of-the-box” approach, in line with the University's commitment to innovation, as expressed in its mission statement.
The letter S, connected to the letters U and M, signifies the close ties between the University and the wider community, united through the creation and dissemination of knowledge
The Triangle in Orange
The orange triangle symbolises the stability of USM, which is founded on three core values — excellence, well-being and cordiality (Unggul, Sejahtera, Mesra). The placement of the triangle at the base of the letter S signifies the importance of these three core values in upholding the USM motto “We Lead”.
The Four Vertical Bars in Orange
The four orange vertical bars symbolise the four USM Guiding Principles, which serve as the main pillars supporting the overall development of the University.
USM Colours
USM Purple
Purple signifies high rank and is the official colour of USM.
USM Orange
The colour orange is derived from the tiger depicted in the official USM crest and symbolises USM's dynamic and active role as a knowledge enterprise at both national and international levels.
APEX Logo
Rationale of the Logo
The logo was designed to symbolise the continuity of the APEX initiative since its inception in 2008. The triangular shape represents three core values — excellence, harmony and togetherness — which are interconnected with the fundamental dimensions of life: humanity, nature and divinity.
The triangles are arranged in an ascending formation, symbolising the University's continuous progress and pursuit of greater achievements. Together, they form the letter “A”, representing excellence in all dimensions.
The composition of nine triangles represents the nine thrusts of APEX — Knowledge, Future, Sustainability, Uniqueness, Universality, Humanity, Change, Sacrifice and Well-being — which collectively drive the pursuit of excellence. The largest purple triangle symbolises the foundation of knowledge, while the medium-sized white triangle represents harmony.
Description of the Colours of the Logo
Purple signifies maturity, while orange symbolises dynamism. These colours reflect the motto “We Lead” and the spirit of the APEX programme, combining maturity and strength with dynamism and a proactive attitude.
