By Asma Irdina

25 February 2023 – As the sun set over the picturesque campus of INTI International University, hundreds of graduates donned their caps and gowns and prepared to take the first step of their professional journey. The graduation ceremony was held on the 25th February, 2023 and it took place in Tan Yew Sing Multi-Purpose Hall, Nilai.

Dr Jomo Kwame Sundaram is a distinguished economist, scholar and public intellectual with an impressive career spanning over four decades. Born in Malaysia, he has dedicated his life to advocating for economic justice and social welfare across the globe.

His expertise in development economics has earned him numerous accolades including the prestigious Wassily Leontief Prize in Economics and the Tun Hussein Onn Chair in International Studies at the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia.

During his speech, he expresses his gratitude towards Emeritus Professor Ir Dr Zawawi Ismail, chair of the Board of Governors of Inti International University, Vice Chancellor Dr Joseph Lee, and the Inti Management Team. They also express gratitude towards those present to honor others receiving their own awards in the ceremony.

He also praised Tun Dr Mahathir, the former Prime Minister of Malaysia for his leadership and specifically mentioning his articulation of Vision 2020, which was a promise to unite Malaysia and had its roots in a constitution proposed by Dr. Burhanuddin Al-Helmy in 1947.

The statement is acknowledging his belief that the forward-looking vision of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad recognized the importance of knowledge, science, and technology for progress in industries and agriculture, as well as for building a developed nation.

Before he concluded his speech, he took a moment to express his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who had joined him at the graduation ceremony to celebrate the momentous occasion. With humility and gratitude, he thanked the audience for joining him on the patriotic journey towards a brighter tomorrow.

He also added that Inti International University has a responsibility to uphold its reputation by focusing on the fundamental values that drive the progress of human society and equip us to face future challenges.

It is with great pride and admiration that INTI’S International University confer this honorary doctorate upon Prof. Dr. Jomo Kwame Sundaram, in recognition of his extraordinary achievements and his unwavering commitment to economic and social development. It was an honor to count him among our colleagues and friends.

Together, let’s embrace this responsibility with enthusiasm and commitment, and pave the way for a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.

Written by: Asma Irdina Azmi