Page 176 - VC Message

Leading with Purpose
Messages of the Vice Chancellor KEYNOTED ADDRESSES

26. Thirdly, universities should continue to drive research and innovation in digital
technologies for social good. We must ask: How can we harness AI, big data, and
connectivity to solve pressing problems in our communities?
27. Indeed, ASEAN’s future prosperity depends on this: as the World Economic
Forum noted, Southeast Asia’s digital economy could nearly triple to $1 trillion
by 2030, but achieving this requires overcoming gaps in infrastructure, skills, and
regulatory capacity across the region.
28. Our universities must be at the forefront of this effort, raising the quality of higher
education and expanding its reach so that the youth across ASEAN are equipped
to thrive in the digital economy.

Ladies and gentlemen,

29. As we navigate geopolitical and digital upheavals, an even more profound
challenge looms: the climate and sustainability crisis. Our region is among the
most at-risk in the world to climate change impacts, from rising sea levels and
extreme weather to losses in agriculture and livelihoods.
30. We have already witnessed devastating floods, heatwaves, and typhoons across
ASEAN member states. Climate experts warn that unabated climate change could
potentially cut ASEAN’s GDP by 11% by the end of the century due to its impacts.
31. We need greener energy systems, circular economies that minimize waste, and
robust supply chains for essential goods and food that can withstand disruptions.
In short, a sustainable era is not a utopian ideal but a necessity for peace and
stability.
32. What is the role of universities in this sustainable era? I would argue it is absolutely
168 central. Universities are uniquely positioned to generate the knowledge, innovation,
and talent needed to tackle environmental and sustainability challenges.
33. One example at University of Malaya is the “Living Labs” initiative, where our
researchers and students test sustainability solutions on campus – from green
building designs to zero-waste campaigns – before scaling them up.
34. Moreover, universities must lead by example through our own operations and
policies. I’m proud to share that University of Malaya’s commitment to sustainability
is deeply embedded in our current ongoing strategies now and also in our long-
term plans. We have a UM Master Plan 2050 that places decarbonization and
green policies at the core of our campus development.
35. Crucially, universities also shape the human capital needed for a sustainable
future.
36. In the past, universities were often seen primarily as centres for educating students
and conducting basic research and leaving their application to others.
37. That model is no longer sufficient. Today, society needs universities to step up as
active problem-solvers and leaders at the local, national, and global levels.
38. This means our mission now extends far beyond the lecture hall and the lab.
39. Knowledge diplomacy and science advice should be integral to governance. At
the same time, universities must not operate only in ivory towers or elite circles;
we have a responsibility to engage directly with the communities at the grassroots.
The problems we seek to solve – be it poverty alleviation, public health, or climate
adaptation – often have deeply local dimensions.
40. In essence, the modern university must be as much an actor as an enabler.
We convene conferences and publish papers, yes – but we also strive to turn
knowledge into action.