Never forget the sacrifices parents make for their children - Raja Zarith Sofiah

Permaisuri of Johor Raja Zarith Sofiah Sultan Idris Shah, who is also UTM chancellor said the graduands should show their appreciation, gratitude and love towards their parents as long as they are still around.

"Be thankful, show your love and compassion, be there for them if your parents are still alive.

"They have given you all the guidance, advice, support and a parents' love knows no bounds," Raja Zarith Sofiah said in her speech at UTM 64th Convocation Ceremony (MK64), here today.

Also present was the wife of Tunku Mahkota of Johor, Che Puan Besar Khaleeda Bustaman who was announced as the new pro-chancellor of UTM.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad were also in attendance.

Meanwhile, Raja Zarith Sofiah also hoped that the public could assist and extend their help and contribution to those affected by COVID-19.

"As we celebrate our success today, let's not forget those who are suffering due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many out there are still in destitute, having lost their job or family members and also due to various other reasons," she said.

Raja Zarith Sofiah also expressed her appreciation to frontline workers and and other heroes for their effort and hard work in the control and prevention of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We must also not forget all those who work as cleaners at hospitals and public places. May they be rewarded with Allah's countless blessings," she said.

Meanwhile, UTM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Fauzi Ismail in his speech said the MK64 award involved a total of 8,956 graduands, namely recipients of Doctor of Philosophy (748 individuals), Master's Degree (1,915), Bachelor's Degree (4,326) and Diploma (1,967).

He said of the total, 812 were international students from 54 countries with Nigeria, Iran and Pakistan recording the highest number.

The MK64 will be held in 13 sessions from today until Dec 18.