UMPSA celebrates students’ success in receiving Chinese Ambassador’s Excellence Award

PEKAN, 10 February 2025 – A total of 14 students from Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) recently received the Chinese Ambassador’s Excellence Award from the Embassy of China at the Executive Lounge, UMPSA Library, Pekan.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International Affairs) of UMPSA, Professor Dato’ Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Ziad Sulaiman, representing the Vice-Chancellor of UMPSA, Professor Dr. Yatimah Alias, welcomed the delegation from the Embassy of China, including Education Counsellor, Zhao Changtao, and Education Secretary, Tang Jing. 

The event served as a recognition of the dedication and commitment of UMPSA students who have demonstrated excellence in academics while strengthening the close ties between Malaysia and China in higher education.

In his speech, Professor Dato’ Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Ziad stated that Malaysia-China relations are not new but have been established for centuries.

“The two countries share strong cultural, economic, and diplomatic ties.

“At present, China is Malaysia’s largest trading partner, with collaborations spanning various fields, including education, technology, and innovation.

“UMPSA is also proud of its strategic collaboration with higher education institutions in China.

“One of the key collaborations is the dual degree programme with Beijing Jiaotong University (BJTU), which has successfully produced professionals in the field of railway engineering,” he stated.

He mentioned that 45 UMPSA students successfully completed their studies at BJTU on 18 January 2025.

“In addition, UMPSA has established collaborations with other universities in China, including Tianjin University, Ningxia University, and Liuzhou Railway Technical College.

“Apart from academic collaborations, UMPSA is also involved in industrial initiatives, such as being designated as the Focus University for the ECRL Industrial Skills Training Programme, a partnership between the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia, Malaysia Rail Link (MRL), and China Communications and Construction Company (CCCC) since 2017,” he added.

He further noted that another significant recognition is the Chinese Ambassador Scholarship, which has greatly benefited UMPSA students.

“Since 2022, the Embassy of China in Malaysia has contributed RM100,000, RM65,000, and RM50,000 to students as support for their academic achievements.

“This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also serves as an inspiration for students to continue striving for excellence.

“Students must continue to challenge themselves and pursue their dreams to become future leaders of the nation,” he emphasised.

He further stated that this achievement comes with a responsibility—to continue working hard, innovating, and making meaningful contributions to society.

“UMPSA is determined to further strengthen its ties with China by expanding mobility programmes, research collaborations, and academic exchanges.

“With the support of the Embassy of China, UMPSA will continue to provide the best education, preparing students not only for their careers but also to become global leaders,” he stated.

Also present were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Ts. Dr. Aida Mustapha, as well as UMPSA deans and directors.

By: Naqiah Puaad, Centre for Corporate Communications

Translation by: Dr Rozaimi Abu Samah, UMPSA Press