By: Aidil Asyraaf Abdullah

Editing: Amanpreet Kaur

The role of alumni has long been a central topic in discussions about strengthening the bond between higher education institutions and their graduate communities. Alumni are not merely a product of an institution’s success. They are a reflection of the quality of education, values, and vision that the university embodies. Often, when the role of alumni is discussed, the first thought that comes to mind is their financial contributions, such as donations or development funds. However, reducing alumni to just financial contributors overlooks the broader and more invaluable roles they can play in supporting their alma mater.

In reality, alumni are vital strategic assets for universities, playing a key role in institutional development. The conversation must evolve to recognize how alumni serve as catalysts for transformation, not only through donations but also by actively engaging in initiatives that elevate their institutions.

Alumni as Mentors and Role Models

Alumni have the potential to serve as mentors and role models for current students, guiding them with their extensive experience across various fields. Their insights, advice, and personal stories can inspire and empower the next generation of graduates. For instance, alumni of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) have contributed significantly to the success of programs like "Sejam Bersama Alumni (SEBA)", where they not only share their expertise but also offer guidance on navigating a competitive job market.

Strengthening Professional Networks

Alumni also bridge the gap between the university and the professional world. Through their networks, they create access to career opportunities, industrial internships, and academic collaborations. “Alumni are invaluable assets contributing to UPM’s excellence,” remarked Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Mohd. Rashdan Baba, the first Vice-Chancellor of UPM. Their influence extends beyond academia, playing an essential role in advancing research, enhancing academic quality, and supporting the university's broader goals.

Catalysts of Innovation and Ideas

Beyond providing mentorship, alumni also contribute to the growth of universities by introducing new ideas and innovative approaches. In today’s rapidly evolving world, successful alumni can act as strategic partners, bringing cutting-edge technologies, emerging industry trends, and fresh teaching methodologies to the table. The UPM Alumni Association Sarawak Chapter (PAUPMS) serves as an example, where alumni share their expertise to promote economic and social development, benefiting not only Sarawak but the nation as a whole.

 

Ambassadors for University

Every alumnus serves as an ambassador for their university. Their success on both national and international stages brings pride to their alma mater and boosts its reputation. For example, UPM’s alumni, including influential figures like Dato' Seri Haji Amirudin Shari, the Chief Minister of Selangor, exemplify how the university produces individuals who excel in various fields. Their leadership roles in politics, sports, and other domains underscore the university’s ability to produce graduates who make significant contributions to society.

Notable alumni from other prestigious Malaysian universities also serve as shining examples of their institutions' global standing. For instance, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and alumnus of Universiti Malaya (UM), and Dato' Rizalman Ibrahim, a renowned fashion designer from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), are both ambassadors who elevate their universities' reputations on the global stage.

At UPM, athletes like Cheah Liek Hou, a gold medalist at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, and diver Cheong Jun Hoong, a 2017 World Champion, represent the university’s commitment to producing top-tier talent in diverse fields. These individuals inspire current students and show that academic excellence and hard work can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

Extending Impact Through Community Contributions

Alumni also significantly contribute to the broader community, helping extend the university’s influence beyond its academic walls. Through social initiatives, NGO collaborations, and community service programs, alumni help fulfill their alma mater’s corporate social responsibility. These efforts position universities not just as centers of learning, but also as active participants in societal development.

The Alumni RJH Scholarship Program, launched in 2024, is a prime example of how UPM alumni actively contribute to community development. Sponsored by RJH Consultants & Services Sdn. Bhd. and RJH Marketing & Trading Sdn. Bhd., the scholarship is awarded to deserving students, with a particular focus on those from B40 families and asnaf who demonstrate academic excellence but require financial support. To date, the program has provided sponsorship for 10 students which consists of six undergraduates and four diploma-level students totaling RM240,000. This initiative not only helps students in need but also reinforces the university's commitment to increasing access to higher education for all.

A prime example of this is the Musaadah Ramadan: Tautan Mahabbah 2024 program organized by UPM’s Alumni Relations Centre (ARCUPM). The program, which distributed 684 copies of the Quran to local schools and staff, demonstrates how alumni can play a vital role in community development. Initiatives like this not only benefit the local community but also enhance the university’s image as a caring institution invested in the well-being of society.

Conclusion

The role of alumni extends far beyond financial contributions. They are agents of change, drivers of innovation, and staunch supporters of their universities. By recognizing the multifaceted contributions of alumni, universities can foster stronger, more meaningful relationships with their alumni communities. These relationships, built on mutual respect and shared values, not only benefit the institution but also ensure that alumni play a pivotal role in creating a lasting legacy for future generations.

 

Date of Input: 30/12/2024 | Updated: 17/12/2025 | anishannani