KUANTAN: Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) former vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Dr Daing Nasir Daing Ibrahim was accorded the title of emeritus professor at the university's 19th convocation here today (Oct 26).
The professor emeritus title, the highest academic award, was an appreciation for his contributions toward developing the country's higher education.
UMPSA Pro-Chancellor, Tengku Mahkota of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, conferred the award to Daing Nasir, who served as UMPSA's third vice-chancellor for 11 years between 2008 and 2019.
In his speech, Daing said the award showed the strong support for him by the UMPSA family, including staff members and students, who had worked tirelessly over the years to make the university a respected and recognised higher-learning institution.
"During my 11 years leading UMPSA, I was fortunate to witness various outstanding transformations from being a moderate institution to a globally recognised university.
"UMPSA started with one clear goal, which is to be a focused and authoritative higher-learning institution in engineering and technology. Alhamdulillah, we have accomplished the trust together and today, UMPSA has managed to achieve remarkable recognition through various ratings," he said.
He described the professor emeritus title as not only a recognition of his academic career, but showcased the support, trust and encouragement he received throughout his career, especially at UMPSA.
Daing Nasir is now serving as the rector at Oxus University in Uzbekistan.
His successor, Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Ts Dr Yuserrie Zainuddin, was present at the event.
A total of 5,115 graduates, including 263 masters and doctoral graduates, 2,538 degree students, 64 dual-degree students, 533 diploma students and 1,717 UMPSA Advanced graduates will receive their scrolls between Oct 26 and Oct 29 at the UMPSA Sports Complex Hall in Gambang.