Translated by: Mahaliza Mahadhir (
Pictures by: Hairul Nizam Zahari
UUM ONLINE: ASEAN University Network – Student Affairs Network (AUN-SAN) 2024 opens up opportunities for fostering robust relationships, encouraging innovative approaches, and establishing a supportive atmosphere that nurtures student excellence.
Chairman of Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), Dr Abdul Razak Ahmad stated that the youth of this millennium and generation Z are actively influencing the world and endeavouring to transform the lifestyle of everyone.
"The current generation is immersed in an environment surrounded by Uber, Instagram, Grab, Gojek, Snap, Whatsapp, and online games, which are indicators of how the youth will be the determinants of tomorrow.
We need to investigate why students in this region are not receiving as much attention as their global counterparts. Have we forgotten the true purpose of education in the pursuit of academic excellence, or are we too preoccupied with preparing students for employment?” he said.
He explained that the lecture hall should not only resonate with theory and technique but also with debates on ethics, discussions on social responsibility, and dialogue on human direction.
“In response to those who inquire, why should I be concerned about events that occur thousands of miles away? I say that in the present day, there is no distance.
"The genocide in Palestine, global warming, climate change, the melting ice sheet in the Arctic, and the atrocities in the Sudanese civil war are not the concerns of other individuals; rather, they are our own. They challenge the conscience and test humanity's common sense.
"We all have the power to change it because our higher education institutions not only issue degrees but also become incubators for critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and social responsibility," he said at EDC-UUM on Thursday morning.
Dr Abdul Razak extended an invitation to university administrators and university students in the ASEAN region to continue cultivating the intellect, soul, knowledge, and wisdom in accordance with universal values.
He said ASEAN universities must be motivated to cultivate higher moral standards that transcend national boundaries, serve as leaders and policy innovators, and pioneer change in order to shape a better world.
“Therefore, we must inquire whether we are providing our students with the necessary skills and aspirations to overcome the challenges they will encounter.
"This is the point at which the Student Affairs department becomes crucial, as your responsibilities expand to support both academic and personal growth. You must motivate students to see the connection between their academic pursuits and the broader world,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), Prof. Dato' D. Mohd Foad Sakdan, was exceedingly delighted to have the opportunity to host this important event.
"On behalf of UUM, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all the delegates for their participation and unwavering dedication. Your presence here today reflects our shared commitment to enhancing the student experience in ASEAN.
"The past few years have been challenging times for all of us, prompting us to revive our commitment to enhancing student affairs in ASEAN universities.
Addressing the theme 'The Change in the World of Student Affairs' is timely, and he expressed confidence that the discussion will significantly contribute to the advancement of student affairs in their respective institutions.
"Hence, take advantage of this opportunity to build robust relationships, develop innovative approaches, and create a supportive environment for our students to thrive," he said.