SINTOK: Sultan of Kedah Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah has reminded university graduates that success should not be enjoyed solely for personal gain but shared to uplift others.
In his decree during the Universiti Utara Malaysia's (UUM) 37th convocation, Sultan Sallehuddin emphasised the importance of using one's talents and skills to benefit society, be it through professional engagement or community service.
"Achieving success in your career and life should never come at the cost of your moral values. Leadership is not about being in charge, it is about taking care of those under your charge.
"True leadership begins with caring for others and upholding honesty as a core principle," his Majesty decreed at Dewan Muadzam Shah in UUM here today.
Sultan Sallehuddin urged graduates to use their talents and knowledge to benefit the nation."
"This university has equipped you with diverse knowledge and skills. Today, we celebrate your success, but with it comes a duty to apply your abilities for our beloved country's good.
"As graduates, each of you has a crucial role in ensuring Malaysia progresses in line with global developments. Your skills and potential should be fully harnessed to elevate Malaysia in all fields, be it economic, technological or social."
He reminded graduates that they were the generation that would shape Malaysia's future.
"Dare to dream big, face challenges boldly, and persevere in pursuing your goals. Remember, every achievement is the result of effort and sacrifice.
"Do not fear failure, as each setback is an opportunity to improve and become better."
Sultan Sallehuddin urged graduates to nurture curiosity as "curiosity is the engine of achievement".
"The world is ever-changing, and what you have learned here is just the beginning. You must continue learning, be it through formal education or beyond.
"Learning beyond formal education will shape you to face this challenging world with maturity. And if you encounter setbacks, know that failure is part of the journey to success.
"Failure builds resilience and helps you understand your strengths and weaknesses. Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it is the courage to continue that counts."
Sultan Sallehuddin also encouraged graduates to follow careers they were passionate about.
"Do what you love, and you'll never work a day in your life. Happiness in a career is not derived merely from salary or title but from doing things that bring benefit to society," he said.
His Majesty commended UUM for its commitment to nurturing a future generation of leaders.
"This institution not only imparts knowledge but also seeks to build character and integrity among its graduates. This responsibility aligns with the aim to produce capable individuals who will lead our nation towards greater prosperity and success."
UUM Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan said 6,742 graduates from the class of 2024 would receive their degrees.
"Of the total, 5,539 are undergraduates, and 1,126 are postgraduates. Out of the 5,539 undergraduates, 1,681 are first-class graduates. Heartiest congratulations to all.
"A total of 84 graduates will receive academic excellence awards and medals."