EDUCATION is a force that shapes both knowledge and character.
Universities, Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, emphasised, must equip graduates with technical skills while also cultivating judgement, moral values, empathy and compassion.
Delivering her address at the University of Reading Malaysia’s 10th graduation ceremony recently, Her Majesty also highlighted the growing relevance of psychology, noting that a deeper understanding of human behaviour, motivation, resilience and relationships is essential to addressing mental health challenges and building stronger, more harmonious communities.
Addressing the graduates, Her Majesty reminded them that education should broaden both the mind and the heart, and that knowledge must ultimately be applied in the service of society.
“As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, remember that your achievements are not defined solely by the qualifications you hold, but by the impact you have on those around you,” she said.
The ceremony, held at a hotel in Johor Baru on Aug 1, also saw Her Majesty conferred the Honorary Doctorate of Psychology by the University of Reading.
The conferment, which took place during the university’s centenary year, recognised Her Majesty’s longstanding commitment to education and public service.
In an Aug 4 press release, the varsity said Her Majesty has consistently demonstrated a belief that education is among the most powerful forces for positive social change.
“Throughout decades of public life, she has championed educational opportunity, literacy, language learning and the empowerment of young people.
“Her support for initiatives such as the Bangsa Johor Bahagia programme has helped bring together university expertise and community needs, improving opportunities for disadvantaged communities while encouraging students to apply their knowledge in the service of society,” it said.
University of Reading vice-chancellor Prof Robert Van de Noort said the occasion was a reflection of how far the Malaysia campus and its academic community have come.
“It is a profound privilege to be conferring an honorary doctorate on Her Majesty at this ceremony, and a fitting tribute to her extraordinary commitment to education and service,” he said.
Prof Van de Noort also congratulated the 167 graduates from four schools on the completion of their studies.
He encouraged them to carry forward a love of learning, an openness to new ideas, an appreciation of different perspectives and a sense of responsibility for the world around them.
University of Reading Malaysia provost and chief executive officer Prof May Tan-Mullins expressed hope that the graduates will use the qualities developed during their studies to shape the century ahead.
“The resilience, curiosity and ability to build connections across cultures that you have demonstrated throughout your studies will carry you well beyond graduation,” she said.
