Written and Translated by: Nur Fazrini Alia Binti Abd Majid

Edited by:  Suziana Che Wil 

Serdang, 5 December – The 49th Convocation Ceremony of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), held from 29 November to 5 December 2025 at the Main Hall of the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Arts and Cultural Centre, UPM Serdang, concluded successfully and with great celebration. The ceremony not only honoured graduates receiving their respective degrees but also provided a meaningful opportunity for alumni to return to campus and witness the achievements of their children in a nostalgic and proud atmosphere.

This year, UPM introduced a new initiative known as the UPM Alumni Legacy Seats, specially designated for parents who are both UPM alumni and parents of graduating students. The initiative aims to honour the accomplishments and contributions of alumni in their careers and personal lives, while also celebrating the continuity of family legacy when their children graduate from the same institution. Through this initiative, each alumni parent is given two special seats in a privileged section of the hall. They are also escorted by designated officers to their seats as a gesture of appreciation for their long-standing connection and support toward the university. These seats are adorned with custom-made covers printed with the words “UPM Alumni,” adding an exclusive and sentimental touch to their convocation experience.

The response to the Alumni Legacy Seats was highly encouraging, with a total of 218 seats allocated based on applications received across all convocation sessions. Among the alumni who participated in this initiative were Mr. Mohd Arif bin Abdullah @ Zainal (Class of 2002) for Session 2; the alumni couple Mrs. Nooraisah Sulung and Mr. Ismail Abdul Samad (Class of 2000) for Session 3; Mrs. Vijaya A/P Subramaniam (Class of 2006) for Session 4; Mr. Haji Husaidi bin Hamzah (Class of 1996) for Session 5; Mr. Shahrudin bin Mahadi (Class of 1992 and 1996) for Session 6; and Mr. Janot Anak Bunit (Class of 2006) for Session 7. Their presence not only enlivened the ceremony but also symbolised the strong continuity of family legacy and the enduring bond between alumni and the university.

Overall, the introduction of the UPM Alumni Legacy Seats added a special new dimension to the 49th Convocation Ceremony. The initiative reflects the university’s appreciation for its alumni while strengthening intergenerational connections within the campus community. The spirit of “With Knowledge We Serve,” which lies at the heart of UPM’s identity, was clearly embodied through this effort to honour alumni contributions making this year’s convocation a profoundly meaningful event that will be fondly remembered by all who attended.

Date of Input: 19/12/2025 | Updated: 14/01/2026 | ainnanabilah