Tun Juhar presenting the UMS Royal Academic Award (non-Bumiputera category) to Lim Yan Ying at the convocation ceremony.-Bernama photo
KOTA KINABALU (Dec 7): The concept of universal values that transcend religious and racial boundaries should form the foundation for building a harmonious society and a prosperous nation, said the Yang Dipertua of Sabah, Tun Juhar Mahiruddin.
Juhar said such concept is definitely capable of minimising friction and conflict between groups in our pluralistic society, as the society and country can be developed and built to a distinguishable level without any disagreements within its entities.
He stressed that unity is always acknowledged as a pillar for any efforts towards greatness, calling on the people to live peacefully as a united nation by giving full commitment to national identity based on the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara.
“For the sake of Malaysia, we need to put the interests of the country ahead of the interests of individuals or certain races.
“May prosperity and cooperation between races always be at an optimal level, which will then be inherited by the newer generation in a peaceful, prosperous and developing environment,” he said at the Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) 26th Convocation Ceremony on Saturday.
Juhar who is also UMS Chancellor, advised the graduates to continue to learn and improve themselves as education does not end at the university, such as by practicing good communication skills to convey ideas clearly, effectively and with confidence.
The Head of State also advised them to not be afraid to try something new as each failure is an opportunity to learn and grow, and to have proper work-life balance as mental and physical well-being are also important aside from their career.
He also reminded the graduates to appreciate their parents, lecturers, friends and everyone who have helped them in their journeys, and to give back to the university and society through the donation of knowledge, time or resources to help those in need.
“I pray that the graduates will be able to continue to build Malaysia into a developed, prestigious and respected country in the world, and I am confident that they will all bring positive change to the state and nation in general,” he said.
A total of 4,493 graduates received their diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorates during the convocation, which runs over four days starting Saturday.
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