SIBU: The true essence of higher education lies not only in academic achievements but also in the integration of values that shape a well-rounded individual.
In light of this, Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, advised University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) graduates to uphold core values such as on family, social responsibility, environmental diversity, technology and humanity.
“I am acutely aware of the challenges our nation faces. The existence of corruption, mismanagement, abuse of power and betrayal of trust has tarnished the image of our society.
“This is a reality that burdens our people and threatens the moral foundations of our nation. This is not only a time for reflection but, more importantly, a time for decisive action,” he said at the 9th UTS convocation ceremony here Saturday (Dec 14).
Wan Junaidi added that the country’s system of governance, administration, and management must transcend ethnic, religious, social, and economic barriers.
“They must be rooted in values, guided by principles, and strengthened by trustworthiness. Only through these virtues can we rebuild public trust and restore the dignity of our nation,” he stressed.
Wan Junaidi also emphasised that graduates must emerge as individuals of integrity, guided by a strong moral compass.
He said the success of a university would be measured by its ability to instill in its graduates the values of ethics, accountability, and inner strength.
“These are the foundations that will make them resilient in the face of corruption and injustice.
“Together, we will nurture a generation of leaders who will lead wisely, serve humbly, and uphold the highest ideals of humanity.
“I encourage each of you to adopt these principles as you embark on your careers and personal journeys, especially in facing an increasingly complex and interconnected world,” he said.
At the ceremony, Wan Junaidi presented scrolls to two recipients of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 33 Master’s degree recipients, and 94 Bachelor’s degree recipients.
Dennis Phiong Wei Sheng was awarded the Chancellor Award while Chintra Dewi Bajat and Chai Ting Ting were awarded the Academic Award.
The convocation ceremony will be held over two days with 351 graduates receiving their scrolls.
Also present were Wan Junaidi’s wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development who is also the Chairman of the UTS Board of Directors Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee and UTS Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Khairuddin Abdul Hamid.
