PETALING JAYA: Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), which celebrates its 50th anniversary today, has produced many high achievers.
Among them are Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, special public health adviser to the Prime Minister Tan Sri Dr Jemilah Mahmood and Institut Jantung Negara chief executive officer Datuk Dr Aizai Azan Abdul Rahim.
UKM board of directors chairman Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar said the university had produced 200,000 graduates over the years.
Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Mohd Zuki Ali, Accountant General Datuk Dr Yacob Mustafa, entrepreneur Datuk Hussamuddin Yaacob, Tencent Holdings vice-president Lau Seng Yee and the Star Media Group adviser Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai are among them.
“UKM was established as a rakyat’s university to promote the Malay language and scientific mindset as well as to convey ideas for technology transfer.
“Now UKM is in the top 1% of the QS World University Rankings 2019/2020, ” he said.
UKM secured the 160th spot in the ranking.
Wahid also noted that UKM had produced 11,000 graduate doctors, the highest in the country.
Many of them are working on the front lines together with others in the battle against the SARS-CoV-2 virus and treating Covid-19 patients.
“You are our national heroes and your contributions are highly appreciated, ” he said.
Wahid noted that many UKM alumni were also active in politics across the divide.
“Apart from producing talented human capital for the nation, UKM is also doing well in various fields of research, including stem cell therapy, development of prosthetic leg, creating new plant variants, innovation in micro-electromechanical devices, energy technology and sustainable environment management, among others.
“Well done! Happy 50th Anniversary! And Selamat Hari Raya, ” he said.
