Stock Photo - Malaysia, Penang, Georgetown, Wawasan Open University. Wawasan Open University (WOU) is an open distance learning (ODL) university based in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia. Established in 2006, it is the country's first not-for-profit and fully digitally-enabled ODL university. WOU takes an innovative approach to learn and teaching by offering full mobility for education and a wide range of online activities. Learners can study anytime, anywhere, and can participate in online discussions, lectures, and other activities from their homes. With a vast array of courses from bachelor's, master's, doctorates, and professional certificate and diploma levels, WOU is dedicated to providing quality education and knowledge in business and management, the creative arts, the humanities, and the arts, science, and technology.