The students are advised to continue learning and adapting. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
A WAVE of excitement and pride swept through the Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology’s (TAR UMT) Penang Branch convocation as 507 graduates marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
Held at the university’s Tanjung Bungah campus, the ceremony celebrated not only academic excellence but also the resilience and ambition of graduates who are now poised to make their mark in the working world.
In his opening address, TAR UMT president Prof Datuk Dr Lee Sze Wei congratulated the graduates and reminded them that education extended beyond classrooms and textbooks.
“You leave today with more than just a degree; you carry the mindset of a leader, creator and innovator.
“The world is dynamic and ever-changing, and it will require each of you to adapt, innovate and lead with purpose,” he said.
The ceremony saw the conferment of bachelor degrees and diplomas across multiple fields, including Public Relations, Data Science, Software Engineering, Business Administration, and International Business.
Jason (second from left) with (from left) his father Jimmy, sister Janice and mother Jessie.
Several outstanding students also received awards in recognition of their academic achievements and contributions to innovation, technology and social impact.
Among the graduates was M. Sentheni, 23, who has already secured a job in the information security department of a multinational company.
“I finished my Degree in Data Science last June and took a short break before starting work in August.
“I really enjoy my job because I get to apply what I’ve learned,” said Sentheni when met during the convocation.
For Jason Lee Kar Chun, 24, the transition into the workforce began even before graduation.
He started work as a software developer with a local company last September.
“It has been barely six months, but I’m already looking forward to where my career will take me,” said Jason.
Sentheni is already employed at a multinational company.
He credited TAR UMT’s lecturers for their patience and guidance, adding that his sister Janice Lee Jia Minn is currently studying at the university and will graduate next year.
Jason’s proud parents, Jimmy Lee, 46, and Jessie Lim, 44, were among the families and friends present at the ceremony to celebrate the achievements of their loved ones.
TAR UMT has long been a pillar of higher education in the northern region.
The university continues to strengthen partnerships with industries, ensuring students gain valuable real-world experiences that complement their academic learning.
As the graduates step into the next phase of their lives, whether in employment, entrepreneurship or further studies, Prof Lee reminded them to embrace challenges creatively and always strive for improvement.
“Never forget the importance of giving back to your communities, our nation and the world,” he said.
The convocation was also attended by faculty members, including Prof Dr Janice Toh Guat Guan, Prof Dr Loke Chui Fung, Assoc Prof Say Sok Kwan, Assoc Prof Wong Hwa Kiong, registrar Ooi Shu Luan, Dr Lim Thean Pheng and Dr Lim Khai Yin.
