NINETY-eight graduates received their scrolls at Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia’s (NUMed) 13th Congregation Ceremony in Johor Baru.
It was presided over by Prof Quentin Anstee, pro-vice-chancellor for the Faculty of Medical Sciences at Newcastle University.
The occasion brought together members of the university’s leadership, faculty, guests, graduates and their families to celebrate the achievements of its Class of 2026.
This year, 93 Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and five BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences graduates received their degrees, joining a growing community of healthcare professionals and scientists who are ready to make meaningful contributions to society.
In recognition of their outstanding academic excellence and achievement, several graduates were presented with awards.
Samyuktha Sathian received the Year 5 TM Teoh Prize, Ferdinand Alvin Wilar received the Year 5 Walton Prize and Len Shu Huei received the IIB President Award.
In his address, Prof Anstee congratulated the graduates and reminded them that earning a degree came with the responsibility to serve others with professionalism, compassion and integrity.
“Patients come to us not as cases but as people.
“Your training has equipped you with scientific knowledge and clinical skills.
“Equally important, I hope it has taught you to listen, to communicate, to show empathy and to recognise the dignity of every individual entrusted to your care.”
He also encouraged graduates to embrace lifelong learning and innovation, highlighting the university’s commitment to advancing research and translating discoveries into better healthcare for communities around the world.
Representing the graduating class, MBBS graduate and student orator Muthuthantrige Rishira Milan Marinus Fernando reflected on the shared journey that united every graduate despite their different paths.
“We all come from different backgrounds, but we share one common interest: a fascination with science − whether through research or medicine − and a desire to help others.”
He acknowledged that while every graduate’s story was unique, one experience has remained constant throughout life: overcoming challenges.
“From learning to walk to earning a place at NUMed, making friends and passing exams, every challenge has shaped who we are today,” said Fernando.
Those challenges have now culminated in a significant achievement, he added.
As the graduates embark on the next phase of their lives, they do so equipped not only with knowledge and skills, but also with resilience, compassion and a commitment to serve, NUMed stated.
“As NUMed celebrates the achievements of the Class of 2026, it also celebrates the values they carry forward: scientific curiosity, perseverance and a shared responsibility to improving lives.”
