By Rozita Alias@Abdul Latiff, Corporate Communications Office

Her Royal Highness Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), graciously officiated the 23rd UMT Convocation Ceremony at UMT’s Sultan Mizan Hall.

In conjunction with the officiating ceremony, Her Royal Highness also delivered her royal address. 

In her speech, Sultanah Nur Zahirah extended her congratulations to the entire university community for UMT’s outstanding achievements at both the national and international levels.

“This continued success reflects the unwavering commitment of the university community in upholding academic and research excellence,” said Her Royal Highness.

Her Royal Highness said such accomplishments should serve as a catalyst for further strengthening UMT’s position as a leading institution in marine and aquatic sciences, in line with the nation’s aspiration to become a regional maritime higher education hub.

“I am confident that with a clear focus, recognized expertise, and strong strategic networks, UMT has the potential to establish itself as a premier reference centre both regionally and globally,” Her Royal Highness remarked.

Touching on global changes and technological advancement, including artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual environments, Sultanah Nur Zahirah emphasized that the rapid growth of technology has reshaped the higher education landscape. Her Royal Highness urged the university to continue embracing new technologies and strengthening digital innovation to nurture a knowledgeable and creative society, in line with the vision of Society 5.0, an intelligent society that balances technological progress with human well-being.

On graduate employability, Sultanah Nur Zahirah stressed that today’s students must not only possess knowledge and skills but also additional attributes such as communication ability, leadership, critical thinking, and resilience in facing the ever-evolving challenges of the workforce.

Her Royal Highness also took the opportunity to express appreciation to the parents and families who have been the backbone of the graduates’ success and urged UMT alumni to continue contributing to the university through the sharing of knowledge, experience, and professional networks.

“I am proud to see the graduates stepping out of this ivory tower with great spirit and hope. No matter how far you go, never forget the memories and contributions made at UMT,” said Her Royal Highness with heartfelt sincerity.

Concluding the royal address, Sultanah Nur Zahirah prayed that the success celebrated would inspire graduates to continue progressing in life and career while remaining devoted to religion, the nation, and the country.

“May this success mark the beginning of an even brighter future,” Her Royal Highness declared before ending the speech with a prayer for the well-being of all in attendance.

A total of 2,539 graduates received their degrees and diplomas. Awards presented included the Royal Education Award (Pingat Jaya Cemerlang), Chancellor’s Gold Medal Award, Pro-Chancellor’s Award, University Board of Directors Chairman’s Award, Special PTPTN Award, and Vice-Chancellor’s Award.