Comparative Analysis of Governance Models in ASEAN Higher Education: Balancing Structure and Adaptability

Introduction: Good governance in higher education is essential for ensuring institutional stability, adaptability, and long-term sustainability. It enhances academic, financial, and administrative efficiency while building public trust and global credibility. However, governance models vary significantly across regions due to differences in regulatory frameworks, cultural values, and economic environments. Understanding these diverse models can provide critical insights for developing more effective and contextually appropriate governance frameworks in the ASEAN region.Objectives: This study aims to compare governance models at Rajaphat Yala University (YRU) in Thailand and the State University of Malang (UM) in Indonesia. It specifically explores governance practices in five key areas: education, research, community service, student development, and human resource management.Methods: The study employed a qualitative dual case study approach. Data were collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation analysis. Informants were selected using a snowball sampling technique to ensure the inclusion of relevant stakeholders with comprehensive insights into governance processes at both institutions.Results: The analysis shows that the State University of Malang (UM) implements a structured governance model focused on quality assurance, financial transparency, and academic policy enforcement. UM emphasizes international benchmarking, digital financial systems, and strong participation in research. In contrast, Rajaphat Yala University (YRU) integrates regional cultural values into its governance, prioritizing community-based research and contributing to local economic development. YRU’s model exhibits flexibility and strong stakeholder engagement, reflecting a high level of contextual adaptation.Conclusions: Both structured and adaptive governance models offer distinct strengths. UM excels in quality assurance and global competitiveness through standardized and technology-driven governance, while YRU demonstrates effective stakeholder involvement and socio-cultural integration. The study suggests that an optimal governance framework should combine standardization with contextual flexibility to ensure compliance, innovation, and institutional relevance. These findings contribute valuable perspectives for ASEAN higher education policymakers, highlighting the importance of digital financial governance, research ethics, and community-centered educational strategies. Future research should investigate hybrid governance models, explore the role of university-industry partnerships, and assess the long-term impacts of socio-cultural integration in higher education governance.