Anwar receives honorary professorship from Tsinghua University

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed deep appreciation for the honorary professorship awarded to him by China's Tsinghua University, describing it as an important milestone in strengthening the ties between Malaysia and China.

The Prime Minister said the recognition also symbolises the enduring friendship between Malaysia and China and reflects the shared values and aspirations that bind the two countries.

"I am deeply honoured to accept this honorary professorship from Tsinghua University, a cradle of leaders and ideas that have driven China’s remarkable rise.

"Indeed, as a higher learning institution particularly renowned for its cutting-edge advances in science, technology and innovation, Tsinghua is a dynamic university par excellence.

"I accept this honour on behalf of the people of Malaysia, as a symbol of the lasting friendship between our nations and our shared aspirations for peace, progress and prosperity," he said in a Facebook post on Monday (Nov 11).

During his recent working visit to China, Anwar was conferred the honorary professorship by Tsinghua University at its Shanghai campus on Nov 5.

Anwar also expressed his hope that the honorary professorship would further catalyse partnerships between Malaysian educational institutions and Tsinghua University, one of China’s most esteemed institutions.

"We live at a time increasingly marked by division and the tangled web of identity politics. Narratives that presume that conflicts are inevitable are overshadowing our potential for cooperation.

"Yet, through dialogue, civilisational in essence, we can push back against this trend, choosing instead to elevate the ideals of understanding, mutual respect and knowledge," said the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged Tsinghua University as one of the world’s leading institutions, particularly noted for its groundbreaking work in science, technology and innovation.

In line with his broader vision for a world of shared harmony, Anwar drew upon the values of two great traditions, Islam and Confucianism, emphasising on moderation, balance and social harmony.

"These values provide essential frameworks for addressing the urgent issues of our time. They serve as a lodestar that guides us toward solutions that genuinely serve the common good," added Anwar.

The Prime Minister also pointed to Confucianism's "Zhongyong” (Doctrine of the Mean) and Islam's principle of “wasatiyyah” as guiding philosophies that highlight the importance of balance in addressing the world's complex issues.

"It is my earnest hope that this honorary professorship marks the beginning of even greater collaboration between Tsinghua University and Malaysian institutions.

"Through academic and cultural exchanges, we can nurture a new generation of leaders grounded in a genuine appreciation of each other’s cultures, perspectives and aspirations," said Anwar.