Written and Translated by: Nur Fazrini Alia Abd Majid

Edited by: Suziana Che Wil 

THE 49TH UPM SARAWAK (BINTULU) CONVOCATION SHINES WITH CULTURAL BEAUTY AND THE SPIRIT OF UNITY

Imagine a hall filled with the vibrant colours of academic regalia, the rhythms of traditional music, and the proud cheers of families. Such was the atmosphere surrounding the 49th Convocation Ceremony of Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPM Sarawak), held on 1 and 2 November 2025 at Dewan Sri Kenyalang, where 556 graduates were celebrated in a setting rich with meaning, harmony, and cultural expression.

Beyond the joy and celebration, the ceremony highlighted the noble values that form the core of UPM—respect for knowledge, culture, and the spirit of unity within Malaysia’s multicultural society.

Performances representing various ethnic groups, including the dragon dance, fan dance, traditional Chinese music, and Malay songs performed by Indian students, were not merely forms of entertainment. They symbolised togetherness and harmony among the campus community, united in diversity.

Unity Through Culture

UPM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), Prof. Ir. Dr. Abd Rahim Abu Talib, emphasised that the uniqueness of this year’s ceremony lay in the university’s efforts to cultivate appreciation for local arts and culture as a foundation for unity.

“The involvement of students from diverse backgrounds in these performances reflects the true strength of a plural society—one that respects differences and works together towards shared goals,” he said.

This convocation also marked a historic milestone as the first ceremony following the official rebranding of UPM Bintulu Campus to UPM Sarawak on 30 June 2025. This move signified a new chapter in the university’s journey, which has been established on the Land of the Hornbill for over five decades, and continues to strengthen its role as an institution of knowledge grounded in innovation and sustainability.

Aligned with the aspirations of Sarawak Maju 2030, UPM Sarawak aims to produce graduates who are not only academically excellent, but also culturally rooted, socially conscious, and dedicated to serving the community.

Inspiring Achievements

The ceremony also witnessed a proud and meaningful moment for Wan Irfan Hakim Wan Ismail, recipient of the Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad Co-Curriculum and Student Development Gold Medal (Diploma Category).

The Diploma in Agribusiness graduate expressed his gratitude for the recognition, which he attributed to perseverance and a balance between academic excellence and active involvement in co-curricular activities.

“Agricultural knowledge has shaped me into someone who values sustenance more deeply. It is not just about crops, but about life lessons that teach patience, perseverance, and responsibility towards nature,” he shared. He was previously crowned Champion of the International iFest Religious Oratory Competition 2023 and Juara Da’i Muda in Jakarta.

Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Agricultural Science Education (Honours) at UPM Serdang, he aspires to become an educator who not only imparts knowledge, but also shapes younger generations to appreciate nature and understand the true meaning of life.

UPM Sarawak: A Legacy of Knowledge and New Hope

The achievements of UPM Sarawak graduates reflect not only academic excellence, but also the strength of values and spirit that form the foundation of the university.

The 49th Convocation Ceremony stands as proof that UPM Sarawak continues to grow as a university committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals knowledgeable, culturally grounded, and globally minded—in line with its aspiration to be a centre of excellence in knowledge and humanity.

With the spirit of Berilmu Berbakti continuing to burn brightly, UPM Sarawak will continue to produce generations who not only excel in their respective fields, but also serve as bridges of unity and progress for the nation.

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