CYBERJAYA: The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, has raised concerns about the issue of bullying among university students.
His Majesty said that bullying is quite worrying and can be fatal.
"Its effects do not stop there; individuals involved in bullying, whether as perpetrators or victims, often carry the impact of the trauma into their adulthood.
"To make matters worse, those who habitually bully have the potential to make this behaviour a 'habit' that is difficult to curb, including at work or in social life.
"This (bullying) not only damages individuals but also threatens the harmony of society. If left to continue, we will lose human capital with great potential.
"Universities should be places for the formation of positive personalities, not a field of division due to social problems like this," he said in his speech at Multimedia University's (MMU) 25th convocation ceremony at its Cyberjaya campus.
Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah were conferred Honorary Doctor of Management Degrees in conjunction with the Multimedia Universiti's (MMU) 25th Convocation Ceremony here today.
MMU chancellor Tun Zaki Tun Azmi presented the honorary degrees in appreciation of the royal couple's commitment to excellence in national management.
The honorary degree award is the highest recognition for individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation.
Al-Sultan Abdullah said the honorary degree recognised not only them but also all Malaysians who contributed to the country's stability and prosperity, especially during his reign as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
His Majesty also encouraged the graduates to seek knowledge after obtaining their degrees, adding that he believes lifelong learning is the basis for remaining relevant in an ever-changing world.
"Never be satisfied with what you have learned because knowledge is like a 'sea without end.
"Today's world is greatly influenced by technological advances, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IOT) and digital technology.
"Become a technology-savvy individual by learning how to use these tools wisely to increase productivity and innovation," said His Majesty.
Meanwhile, Tunku Azizah, in her speech, said today is indeed a very historical moment; it was never before that a husband and wife stood together to receive this honorary doctorate.
"We are both very humbled to be conferred (with these degrees) and it brought tears to our eyes, so from the bottom of our hearts, thank you very much," she said.
Meanwhile, Tun Zaki said MMU was very honoured to confer the Honorary Doctor of Management Degree on the royal couple as it aligned with the university's commitment to good management practices.
"This prestigious performance recognises external leadership.
"Their royal highnesses in administration and governance have contributed significantly to the stability and prosperity of the country despite facing various challenges throughout their reign."
A total of 3,657 graduates were felicitated at this year's convocation ceremony, which will be held for three days until Monday.
At the ceremony, 40 officers from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) received their respective scrolls after completing their studies in the Master of Business Administration programme. – Bernama