SHAH ALAM, May 9 — The Alumni Federation of Universiti Teknologi Mara (PAUiTM) has proposed that the university be granted Royal University status, in recognition of its significant role and contributions to the nation since its establishment.

PAUiTM said the proposal was in line with the royal address by the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, who is also UiTM Pro-Chancellor, during the First Session of the 104th UiTM Convocation Ceremony last Wednesday (May 6), in which she described the public university as a “Royal University”.

Drawing on the wisdom and foresight of the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, PAUiTM is of the view that it is highly appropriate for UiTM to be proclaimed a Royal University, in view of its significant role and contributions to the nation.

“More significantly, Article 1(A) of the Universiti Teknologi Mara Act 1976 (Act 173) provides that the university is established in accordance with Article 153 of the Federal Constitution, thereby underscoring UiTM’s special position and the great trust placed in it within the country’s higher education landscape.

“PAUiTM holds the view that Her Royal Highness’ call for UiTM to be protected against any efforts that could undermine or distort its original purpose of establishment is a very clear position that should be respected by all parties,” the alumni said in a post on their official Facebook page yesterday.

PAUiTM also conveyed its gratitude for the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor’s address in conjunction with the UiTM Convocation Ceremony, which carried profound messages, values, and reminders for university staff and alumni.

The alumni said Her Royal Highness’ address not only highlighted academic excellence but also underscored UiTM’s role as an institution founded on the nation’s trust to empower the education of the people, particularly the Malays, Orang Asli, and natives of Sabah and Sarawak, in accordance with Article 153 of the Federal Constitution and Act 173.

“Her Royal Highness’ address also carried a balanced and mature message, emphasising the importance of preserving harmony in a plural society, respecting cultural diversity, and ensuring that the legitimate interests of all races continue to be protected in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.

“Although UiTM fundamentally upholds the Bumiputera empowerment agenda, the institution has produced competent professionals serving the country across various disciplines and sectors, and has indeed proven its ability to produce high-quality graduates,” according to the post.

PAUiTM also welcomed Her Royal Highness’ emphasis on the importance of knowledge, competitiveness and readiness among the younger generation in confronting geopolitical challenges, global economic changes, as well as the rapid advancement of technology. 

“Today’s graduates must possess not only skills, but also wisdom, moral values and the ability to lead society guided with a sense of humanity.

“In this regard, PAUiTM will continue to remain committed to working with the university to strengthen alumni networks through the unification of alumni associations at campus, faculty and club levels, as well as contributing expertise and safeguarding UiTM’s legacy as a bastion of knowledge and a catalyst for national development over the past seven decades,” the post said. — Bernama