Page 152 - VC Message

Leading with Purpose
Messages of the Vice Chancellor OP ED & RENCANA MEDIA

While internationalisation remains This mandate for holistic development It is undoubtedly a difficult balance,
important, due to natural global trends is a shared agenda across all public as there will always be challenges in
and academic competitiveness, our core universities, not just UM, and forms allocating finite seats and resources. Yet
and immediate priority has always been part of the national objective to develop a spirited public discourse, supported by
the developing of our own human capital. high-quality human capital. The goal is future-driven and forward-looking national
to empower the nation by nurturing and policies, is essential to keep the system
UM is steadfast in fulfilling this national
mandate, despite the limitations of our retaining skilled talent locally, rather than fair, resilient, and responsive.
losing it to opportunities abroad.
capacity and resources. We understand It is also important to recognise that
the unwavering determination of our At UM, we recognise the need for other countries face similar dilemmas
capable and resilient young talents, who continuous improvement in areas and challenges. UCLA system, for
persevere with grit and aspiration to concerning placement, recognition and example, demonstrated that it is possible
become part of the UM family and legacy, support for our local talents. We are to implement firm protections for local
the nation’s top university. committed to enhancing these aspects students while still reaping the benefits of
in line with evolving indicators of future international diversity.
Despite the challenges and finite
resources, we at UM will continue to development and national needs. We Our focus on the bigger picture of
uphold our responsibility and conviction: welcome constructive, forward-looking nation-building has never wavered. The
insights and ideas to further enhance the
To support, empower and honour our ultimate goal is a Malaysia with a highly
youth and future generations. ecosystem, with the final aim of ensuring skilled workforce and a broader pool of
that our country and our people remain
The appeals process and multiple the primary beneficiaries. This is essential thought leaders who can drive progress
domestically. At the same time, we aspire
application choices exist to ensure no as we strive to realise our aspirations to be a respected hub of knowledge,
talent falls through the cracks. of becoming a strong, respected and attracting talent from around the world.
influential nation amid a new wave of
The past and current systems of intake and These goals are not mutually exclusive —
admissions at the national level have been global uncertainties, and to fulfil the they are, in fact, complementary.
built on the foundation of meritocracy, national agenda of achieving high-income
supported by structured channels for status through a highly skilled and well- A country that nurtures and supports its
appeals and further considerations, both developed workforce. own people will naturally become a magnet
for others to learn, work and contribute.
in terms of university placements and the I assure you that we will thoroughly and
courses or fields being pursued. fairly review all appeals and applications Conversely, embracing global talent can
help accelerate the development of our
Moving forward, efforts can be made from qualified Malaysian students who own.
to refine the system to ensure a more meet the criteria for our courses. As the
144 holistic and balanced approach. Most nation’s foremost flagbearer of academic The new generation of students
importantly, there must be recognition excellence, this is the least we can do. We understands this symbiosis better,
having growing up in a connected world.
that exam results alone should not be the will continue to honour our mandate and
sole or defining criterion in determining a national responsibility with integrity and Our universities must reflect this ethos,
inclusive and globally minded, yet fair and
student’s future, especially when so many commitment. loyal to national aspirations, with local
high-achieving candidates are competing.
talents always being prioritised.
Many programmes already require Globally Ranked, Nationally Grounded
interviews or aptitude tests relevant to the The world of higher education is rapidly While we, like our global peers, walk
a tightrope in striving for international
specific course, and such measures could
be expanded so that passion, creativity, evolving, and Malaysia, like any other stature and quality, this will never come at
character, socio-economic background, emerging nations aspiring to lead in the expense of our local students’ dreams.
innovation and advancement, must not
We will continue to ensure that no talented
competency and other attributes are
considered alongside exam scores. only adapt, but also remain agile and Malaysian youth is left behind, while at the
same time, embracing the richness of a
resilient to stay ahead.
This would ensure a more well-rounded
intake. But a fair, just and impartial system We are now educating Generation Z (Gen global academic environment.
must remain the foundation of all these Z), and soon Gen Alpha, cohorts of digital- That is the vision of a truly world-class
processes, as has been implemented. natives who are globally aware and hold university: One that transforms its nation
ambitious aspirations. They compete and contributes to the world, all in the
Meritocracy remains crucial and continues
to be the basis of university admissions. fiercely for top grades and recognition, but same breath.
also seek creativity, meaning and impact
Nevertheless, a more holistic form of in their education journey. We will continue to ensure that every
meritocracy can help distinguish among local students who has worked hard to
the many straight-A candidates and place UM, as the nation’s flagship institution, is pursue their dreams is recognised for their
students in fields that align with their well-positioned and equipped to lead this passion and determination.
individual strengths. change. It plays a dual and equally pivotal At UM, we remain committed to these
Most importantly, once students are role: As a driver of national progress by ideals, to serve the nation with knowledge,
admitted to university, support for local nurturing homegrown leaders, and as courage and an enduring pride in our
a standard-bearer of global excellence
talent must and will continue. national duty.
through research, academic impact and
Local public universities, including international collaborations. Prof Datuk Seri Ir Dr Noor Azuan Abu
UM, have been intensifying mentorship Can UM continue to rise in global rankings Osman
programmes, entrepreneurial incubators, and broaden its international recognition, Vice Chancellor of Universiti Malaya.
leadership workshops, and industry and
international linkages to nurture students’ while remaining committed to the Form
Six students or Matriculation students
potential beyond academics achievement
alone. who burn the midnight oil for a place at
UM? The answer must be yes.