ALOR STAR: Amanah (entrustment) was the key driving force for legendary rugby player Sonny Bill Williams in accepting the role of Albukhary International University's (AIU) inaugural Pro-Chancellor.
Williams, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, said his decision to take on the role was natural as the values he holds closely align with those of the university.
"I was given a chance. I was blessed by Allah to have sport as my propeller—my life to change, myself and my family's situation. And that's exactly what they're doing here, but from an educational point of view.
"So there's a real relatable story, relatable feelings, emotions that come with being a Pro-Chancellor... I don't want it to just be symbolic. I want to be involved with the kids (students) in a more active capacity.
"I'm very humbled and excited about this position... I've been blessed with this amanah, and to work in tandem with AIU, I'm excited," he said during a press conference after his inauguration ceremony at the AIU Chancellory Building here today.
Also present was AIU vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Mohd Saleh Jaafar.
The former All Blacks centre said his goal in the role is to inspire AIU's students, many of whom come from underprivileged backgrounds.
"I've never been a Pro-Chancellor before. But I understand what hard work, determination, gratitude, having purpose, and trying to change your situation is about. I can talk from that. And that's what I will be speaking about to the leaders of our future.
"What I like about AIU is, yes, they foster smarts, but they foster social change, they foster courage, they foster unity, empathy and that's something I would like to think I have a degree of," said the 39-year-old Auckland-born athlete.
Williams also shared his admiration for Malaysia, a sentiment strengthened during his recent visits.
"Earlier this year, I came here and fell in love with the place. I didn't know that Malaysians knew who I was. You know, I may get stopped on the street now and then in Australia and New Zealand, but I was blown away by the love I received here," he added.
Meanwhile, Salleh said the university is proud to have Williams on board, as his life and career strongly reflect AIU's mission and vision.
"The moment we declared that Sonny would be our Pro-Chancellor, the whole campus community was so excited. Traditionally, a Pro-Chancellor is seen as a ceremonial role. But it's not going to be just ceremonial. We will try to engage him as much as possible because the students will benefit significantly," he said.