Written and Translated by: Nur Fazrini Alia Binti Abd Majid 

Edited by:  Suziana Che Wil 

Imagine a green field that once bore witness to the ups and downs of a student who initially played merely to fill spare time, and who now steps forward proudly carrying the nation’s name on the international stage. Such is a story that reflects the spirit of the Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) community and its alumni, where sport is not merely a physical activity, but a symbol of discipline, perseverance, and fighting spirit that shapes one’s character.

Sports and UPM are inseparable. As a university that has produced many figures in physical education, sports science, and leadership, this legacy of excellence continues to live on through its alumni. Among those who stand out is Mr Mohd Hasrul bin Hasan, a UPM alumnus of the years 2000 and 2003, who has been officially selected by the FootGolf Association Malaysia (FGAM) to represent Malaysia at the China FootGolf Open 2025 (FOOTGOLF FIFG500) in Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China.

This achievement is not only a great honour for him, but also clear evidence that the spirit of Berilmu Berbakti shines not only in lecture halls, but also on the global sporting stage.

Sports as a Platform for Personal Development

For many UPM alumni, sports serve as a space for character and leadership development. On the field and in the arena, they learn mental strength, teamwork, and discipline, which they later carry into their professional careers and lives. In the context of higher education, sports are not merely co-curricular activities, but an integral part of the philosophy of holistic human development that has been central to UPM since its establishment.

UPM has produced thousands of alumni who are not only successful in their professional careers, but also actively involved in various sports—from football to recreational activities, from swimming to sports management. The success of alumni such as Mr Mohd Hasrul inspires new students to see sports as a bridge towards global excellence.

Elevating the University’s Name on the World Stage

When an alumnus steps onto the international arena, the university’s name is carried along as well. Success in sports resonates as a source of pride for the UPM community, highlighting that the university is not merely a centre of knowledge, but also a hub for comprehensive talent development.

Through his participation with the FootGolf Association Malaysia (FGAM), Mr Mohd Hasrul has not only raised Malaysia’s profile, but also demonstrated how UPM alumni are able to break into emerging sports that are gaining global attention. The spirit and discipline nurtured on campus have become the foundation of his achievements today.

Inspiration for the New Generation

Stories of alumni success in sports serve as a valuable source of inspiration for today’s UPM students. They remind us that success does not come solely through academic excellence, but also through a balance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Through the passion and dedication of its alumni, new students can see that the university is not just a place to acquire knowledge, but a space to build identity and fighting spirit.

The UPM Alumni Relations Centre (ARCUPM) also plays an important role in recognising and highlighting such achievements, ensuring that the bond between alumni and the university remains strong. This relationship not only fosters a sense of pride, but also opens avenues for new collaborations between alumni, students, and the university.

Alumni and sports move forward hand in hand, breathing life into the spirit of the university through sportsmanship and excellence. They are not merely former students, but ambassadors of the university who carry UPM’s name beyond borders. In every kick, every step, and every victory, the Putra spirit that never fades is embedded.

By continuing to support and celebrate alumni achievements in sports, the university not only strengthens its legacy of excellence, but also ensures that the spirit of Berilmu Berbakti continues to be inherited—on the field, in the professional world, and in the hearts of every member of the UPM community.

 

Date of Input: 17/12/2025 | Updated: 18/12/2025 | suziana.wil