Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah today hailed the “enduring ties” between Malaysia and Japan after he was conferred with an honorary doctorate in philosophy by the University of Tsukuba.
“The establishment of the University of Tsukuba Malaysia stands as a shining beacon of this partnership,” the sultan of Pahang said in his acceptance speech, adding that it represents a “bridge of knowledge, innovation and cultural understanding that will benefit future generations.”
“With all sincerity, I express my heartfelt gratitude,” said Al-Sultan Abdullah.
He described the honour as a “meaningful” recognition of his contributions to sports and education and a reflection of the deep trust shared between both nations.
“May the friendship between Malaysia and Japan continue to flourish and may education forever serve as a beacon of hope, progress and harmony for the entire world.”
Also present at the event held in Kuala Lumpur were the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, Japanese ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata and higher education minister Zambry Abdul Kadir.
Al-Sultan Abdullah, who served as the country’s 16th king from Jan 31, 2019 to Jan 30, 2024, reaffirmed his belief that education was key to establishing stronger, fairer and more resilient societies.
“Malaysia and Japan share a rich and evolving partnership, especially in technology and education,” he said.
He recounted how the university’s Malaysian campus, which opened its doors on Sept 1 last year, came to be set up.
“In 2019, during my official visit to Tokyo for the enthronement ceremony of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito, I had the privilege of meeting with the late prime minister of Japan, Mr Shinzo Abe.
“It was during that historic encounter, that the vision for establishing a Tsukuba University campus in Malaysia was discussed,” he said.
In encouraging Malaysians to pursue their studies at the institution, Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed hope that the university and its Malaysian campus would continue to produce many outstanding talents.
“I sincerely pray for the continued growth and success of the University of Tsukuba and the University of Tsukuba Malaysia campus,” he said.
