If you are a student, receiving your scroll at convocation is a proud moment, a recognition of all your hard work. But what about academics? Besides perks and promotions, how will they know that their efforts and contributions are appreciated?
OUM found the answer with our very first Academic Excellence Awards, held in Petaling Jaya on 17 November. It celebrated the dedication, innovation, and achievements of our academics across research, publication, supervision, and more.
The ceremony began with Emeritus Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Tajudin Md Ninggal, Vice President/Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Research), sharing a simple yet powerful thought: “Excellence is about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”
Next, Prof Dato’ Dr Ahmad Izanee Awang, President/Vice-Chancellor, congratulated Datuk Tajudin on being conferred the title of Emeritus Professor by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and extended congratulations to all award recipients.
Adding a touch of inspiration, Emeritus Prof Dato Dr Muhammad Awang, Chairman of OUM’s Board of Governors, reflected on the University’s 25-year journey. “25 years is not just a number. It represents years of teaching, guiding, and inspiring students,” he said.
He reminded our academics to embrace four key qualities: innovate, collaborate, create impact, and inspire, ending with a memorable line: “Be the lecturer whose spark never fades.” The crowd responded with resounding applause.
A total of 13 academics and one faculty were honoured across 14 categories, including teaching, research, publication, innovation, and community impact. They received cash prizes worth up to RM14,500 and certificates of recognition. The recipients are as follows:
Besides the awards, Associate Professor Dr Wong Huey Siew from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities was also honoured with an Associate Professorship.
Congratulations to all the winners. Your hard work, creativity, and dedication inspire not just your students, but your colleagues as well. And for those striving quietly behind the scenes, remember Datuk Tajudin’s words: “Just because you are not a winner yet, does not mean you will not be a winner soon.”
OUM’s Academic Excellence Awards 2025 not only celebrated achievements but also reminded us of the passion and commitment that fuel the University’s 25-year journey and beyond.
