USM HONOURS MAIMUNAH WITH DOCTORATE, MARKS NEW PHASE IN HER ADVOCACY

GEORGE TOWN, Nov 25 (Bernama) -- Petronas Property Adviser Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif today described the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate in Urban and Regional Planning by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) as a new chapter in her contributions at both the domestic and global levels.

The former Kuala Lumpur mayor said she was deeply moved by the recognition, noting that it also honours those who have supported her throughout her life and career.

“I am grateful and touched by this award from USM. It is for everyone who has been part of my journey, from Kuala Pilah to Penang, then New York, Geneva and finally back to Kuala Lumpur.

“This is not about making myself an example, but about encouraging perseverance among new graduates as they chart their path,” she told reporters after receiving the award during the first session of USM’s 63rd Convocation Ceremony.

Maimunah received the honorary degree from USM Chancellor, the Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail.

She reminded graduates that the world is undergoing significant transformation, noting that 2025 will mark the first time in history that more people live in urban areas than rural ones.

As Malaysia moves toward an increasingly urban and dynamic future, she said trust, integrity and courage must guide the nation’s direction.

“Today, the public does not want slogans. They want honesty, integrity and actions that bring real change,” she said.

USM Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed said Maimunah has elevated Malaysia’s standing on the global stage, adding that the recognition reflects the values of humanity, sustainability and leadership she has championed.

He said Maimunah was also the first Asian woman appointed as a United Nations (UN) assistant secretary-general and as executive director of Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), where she led sustainable urban operations in 93 countries.

This year’s convocation will see 9,347 graduates receiving their degrees from today until Dec 2, comprising 865 PhD recipients, 3,501 Master’s graduates, 4,934 Bachelor’s degree holders and 47 Diploma in Nursing recipients.

-- BERNAMA