Page 194 - VC Message

Leading with Purpose
Messages of the Vice Chancellor SELECTED SPEECHES AND ADDRESSES

you failed an exam or stumbled in your journey. What matters is that you are here
today, wearing this robe, stepping into a new chapter with courage in your heart.
And that means everything. Don’t let anyone—including yourself—tell you that
your past defines your future. It doesn’t. You do.
13. Success, my dear graduates, is never about numbers alone. It’s not about the
digits on your transcript or the title on your business card. It’s about the weight of
your heart, the strength of your values, and the fire of your conscience to serve
others. It’s about choosing to do the right thing even when no one is watching,
about lifting others as you climb, and about making your own unique mark on the
world in your own way.
14. Whether you become a doctor, an artist, an engineer, a teacher, or something the
world hasn’t invented yet—do it with love, with humility, and with purpose. The
world needs you. And I believe, that you are ready to shine, I knew, because I was
once in your shoes, exactly in this juncture of life, deciding what’s next for my next
chapter of life.
15. You are the future. You are the ones who will build the next set of innovations, who
will shape the values of our society, and who will carry forward the torch of human
progress. You can do this. If there is one message I want to leave you with today,
it is this: Every single one of you has the power to make a difference in someone’s
life. Never underestimate that.
16. I also stand here today as a proud father and husband. My family is my anchor
and my strength. To my beloved wife, Liana, who is seated here, thank you for
your endless patience and love.
17. My son Erwin, who is following in my footsteps in mechanical engineering and
now a mechanical engineer—you inspire me. Nadia, my eldest, is now a medical
186 practitioner in Limerick, Ireland—carrying forward the mission of healing in another
beautiful way.
18. And my youngest daughter brings joy to every corner of our home, chasing her
dreams in social sciences and digital media as a final year student in Universiti
Malaya, Mickey Mouse forever enchants her and We Bare Bears.
19. Before I conclude, I would like to take a moment to express my deepest
appreciation to Professor Shirley Congdon, your leadership has been nothing
short of inspiring.
20. I must share personal note—one of fondest memories was the moment we shared
over Thai food in Kuala Lumpur not long ago. That simple, joyful occasion meant a
great deal to me. It reminded me that leadership is not only about milestones and
policies, but about warmth, humanity, and connection.
21. I was shocked when Professor Congdon informed me of her intention to retire
later this year. It felt sudden, but I was reminded of a truth I’ve always held close:
God knows best.I truly believe—with all my heart—that every transition carries a
purpose. If not for ourselves, then for those we love.
22. Professor Congdon, thank you for your friendship, your wisdom, and your legacy.
23. Madam Chancellor Anita Rani, by granting me this honour, Bradford has
completed a beautiful circle in my life’s journey. I accept this doctorate with deep
humility, renewed purpose, and a promise to keep advancing knowledge that
serves humankind.
24. Thank you, University of Bradford, for this tremendous honour. Thank you all for
allowing me to share this journey with you.

Let us go forward—not just to do well, but to do good.
Thank you