Unleashing Changemakers: University of Cyberjaya Celebrates 1,083 Graduates and Exceptional Achievers at the 14th Convocation Ceremony

The University of Cyberjaya (UoC) marked a milestone in its journey of academic excellence with the celebration of its 14th Convocation Ceremony on 7 and 8 December 2024. This momentous occasion honoured the achievements of 1,083 graduates from diverse disciplines, reflecting their dedication and hard work. The ceremony also shone a spotlight on extraordinary individuals who epitomise the University’s ideals of leadership, innovation, and community service, inspiring future leaders and Changemakers.

The ceremony was officiated by the Chancellor, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah. In his stirring address, the Chancellor inspired graduates to pursue lifelong learning and make meaningful contributions to society.

“The pursuit of knowledge is not confined to classrooms; it is a lifelong journey,” he shared. “As you step forward, every challenge, triumph, and experience will shape your legacy. Remember, true success is measured not by accolades alone, but by the positive impact you leave on the lives of others.”

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. David Whitford congratulated the graduates in his commencement speech, “This is a day to honour your hard work, resilience, and the vision that brought you here. Each of you has walked a unique path and today marks both the completion of your studies and the start of an exciting new chapter. To our graduates, congratulations! The future is full of possibilities, and I am confident you will each contribute in your own remarkable way to a better, brighter world.”

A highlight of the ceremony was the conferment of Honorary Professorships to two distinguished individuals whose work continues to shape the future of their respective fields. UoC proudly conferred the prestigious title of Honorary Professor of Occupational Safety and Health on Ir. Hj. Mohd Hatta bin Zakaria and Honorary Professor of Engineering Professional Practice on Ir. Dr. Siti Hawa binti Hamzah.

Ir. Hj. Mohd Hatta bin Zakaria is the Director General of the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), Malaysia. He has dedicated over 30 years to public service, notably in occupational safety and health (OSH). Beginning his career with the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (JKKP) in 1992, he has held key leadership positions, including Director of JKKP Negeri Sembilan, Sarawak, and Perak, as well as Director of the Industrial Safety Division and Petroleum Safety Division. In September 2023, he was appointed Director General of JKKP.

Ir. Hj. Mohd Hatta serves on the boards of the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB), and the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM). His work has been instrumental in shaping national OSH policies, fostering a culture of prevention, and advocating for safer work environments across Malaysia.

UoC honoured Ir. Hj. Mohd Hatta for his exceptional leadership in OSH and his lasting impact on industries and communities. His dedication to promoting safety and health standards has set benchmarks for professionals and policymakers, inspiring a commitment to workplace safety among future generations. This accolade celebrates his unwavering dedication to improving workplace safety and health standards across the nation.  

Commenting on the conferment of the Honorary Professorship, Ir. Hj. Mohd Hatta said, "I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from the University of Cyberjaya. The university's exceptional Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) programmes are shaping a new generation of professionals who are prepared to drive meaningful change in workplace safety and well-being. This award is not just a personal milestone for me but also a testament to the university's significant efforts in advancing this important field."

Ir. Dr. Siti Hawa binti Hamzah, a Professional Engineer with a Practicing Certificate and a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM), has significantly advanced engineering education and quality assurance in Malaysia. Currently serving as the Vice President of IEM, she is the first and only woman to serve as Director of the Engineering Accreditation Department at BEM, a testament to her trailblazing contributions in a traditionally male-dominated field. With over 33 years of academic experience, Dr. Siti has published over 175 technical papers, authored 15 books, and examined more than 75 Professional Engineer candidates. Her contributions have earned her Honorary Fellowships and over 20 research awards. She holds a PhD in Civil and Structural Engineering from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), alongside degrees and certifications from the USA.

This accolade recognised Dr. Siti’s unparalleled dedication to engineering education and steadfast commitment to ensuring academic and professional programme excellence. Her legacy as an educator, mentor, and leader inspires the next generation of engineers.

The Convocation Ceremony also honoured outstanding individuals with prestigious awards that underscore UoC’s commitment to excellence:

• The Chancellor’s Award was presented to Yuen Suet Yee, a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) graduate, for her remarkable academic achievements, innovative research in advanced drug delivery systems, and impactful community campaigns, including the Halal Medication Awareness Campaign.
  
  In her heartfelt valedictorian speech, Yuen said: “Graduation is more than a certificate—it’s a testament to resilience, growth, and the unwavering support of our lecturers, families, and friends. She added, “Every challenge we face today will become a stepping stone toward our future, and every setback will teach us resilience. These lessons are what make us stronger, more capable, and ready to tackle whatever challenges we face in the future. On top of this, none of this would have happened without the incredible support from the faculty and staff of the University of Cyberjaya.”
  
• The Vice Chancellor’s Award went to Cheong Yuen Leng, who is also a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) graduate. Yuen Leng was recognised for her academic brilliance and leadership in initiatives such as the SCouT Elderly Care Management Programme. Her contributions exemplify the harmony between scholarly excellence and social responsibility.

• The Alumni Excellence Award was conferred on Dr. Ahmad Anuar bin Sofian, a Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), Faculty of Medicine alumnus (Class of 2011), for his exemplary contributions to orthopaedic surgery and humanitarian missions with MERCY Malaysia in Gaza. Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Ahmad said: “My journey began here at the University of Cyberjaya. I owe much of my success to the foundational knowledge, skills, and values instilled during my time as a student. I hope to continue inspiring others to serve humanity through medicine and compassion.”

This year’s convocation was not just a celebration of academic milestones but a testament to the University of Cyberjaya’s mission to nurture changemakers who lead with knowledge and serve with heart. The stories of resilience, innovation, and community impact shared during the ceremony reaffirm the university’s dedication to shaping future leaders.

The University of Cyberjaya extends its heartfelt congratulations to all graduates and award recipients. Their achievements illuminate UoC’s legacy of excellence and its commitment to transforming lives through education.