Page 68 - VC Message

Leading with Purpose
Messages of the Vice Chancellor MESSAGES OF THE VICE CHANCELLOR

17. Universiti Malaya will continue to lead these areas of positive mutual collaborations
for the benefit of the people and the future generations. Malaysia offers a gateway
for global researchers to engage with Southeast Asia’s dynamic academic and
innovation landscape.
18. By integrating their strength, all can accelerate academic innovation, drive
sustainable development, and enhance their competitiveness in the global digital
economy. We have also seen the significance of values-based approach in our
quest to be the institutional referral point in academic and research excellence, as
outlined by the core themes in the civilisational synergy and dialogue.
19. As in the recent International Conference on the Dialogue of Civilisations hosted
by us and graced by the Prime Minister, the onus is on all of us to preserve and
spearhead the tenets of universal spirit of togetherness, peace and unity, and the
role of higher education and inclusivity has never been more profound.
20. Universities remain the apt avenue in calling for a global approach and perspective
in advocating peace, dialogue and unity that transcend race, religion, creed and
nationality.
21. Over the past several months, we have seen the fair share of global calamities
and disasters, both natural and man made. From the atrocities in Gaza to the
earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand, and from our very own gas pipeline disaster
in Putra Heights, we have seen the new fabric of human spirit and resilience in
showcasing the essence of humanity and the underlinings of human values and
empathy.
22. The University always stands ready in its quest to fulfil its role not only as the
mere conventional umbrella of academic and research obligations in churning out
solutions to the pressing challenges of the world today, but most importantly, in
60 creating the inner foundation of a new civilisational progress pillared on the dignity
of the humanity and spirit of human resilience, grit and valour.
23. The world today stands at a crossroads. More than ever, we must embrace a
global spirit of togetherness and synergy among civilizations. Malaysia’s ASEAN
Chairmanship propels the notion of bridging divides between member states,
promoting peaceful dispute resolution, and strengthening regional unity in
diversity.
24. The upcoming ASEAN Summit next week will be a test of resolve and our
leadership to the region and the world, and we in UM must continue to contribute
to the progress of the region through out multifaceted efforts and expertise, in
continuing to lead regional partners and institutions towards building resilience,
adaptability and strength in bolstering readiness and capacity.
25. Civilisational harmony in ASEAN must not only be a diplomatic aspiration, but an
operational principle embedded in our education systems, our policymaking, and
our social frameworks. By reinforcing shared values across ASEAN cultures —
respect, tolerance, harmony, and cooperation — we can create a regional identity
grounded in mutual understanding rather than geopolitical alignment.
26. ASEAN’s diversity is its greatest strength. Under the leadership of Prime Minister
Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia has the opportunity to lead ASEAN in advancing a
regional doctrine of civilisational coexistence — where economic integration is
matched by ethical integration, and where cultural diplomacy becomes a core
instrument of peacebuilding and crisis prevention.
27. ASEAN can and must be the world’s living laboratory for civilisational synergy.
We must show the world that ASEAN can be a model for cultural harmony and
inclusive growth.
28. At the heart of all of global challenges — climate, conflict, poverty, health — lies
a single truth: no nation, no civilisation, no people can face them alone. The only
way forward is together.