KOTA SAMARAHAN – The 29th Convocation Ceremony of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) was marked by both celebration and reflection, as the institution highlighted its academic achievements and future ambitions while honouring thousands of graduates.
The event, held at the Arena Gemilang Hall, DeTAR Putra, was officiated by Sarawak Governor and UNIMAS Chancellor, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Their arrival was greeted by senior university leaders, including Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Sulong Matjeraie, Chairman of the UNIMAS Board of Directors, and Professor Dr. Haji Ahmad Hata Rasit, Vice-Chancellor of UNIMAS.
The ceremony commenced with the Chancellor’s Procession, followed by the official proclamation of the convocation’s opening. In his address, Professor Dr. Ahmad Hata Rasit described the Chancellor’s presence as a source of encouragement for graduates, symbolising leadership that consistently supports the university’s pursuit of excellence.
Delivering his Chancellor’s Message, Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi reminded graduates that education is a lifelong journey requiring perseverance and humility. He cited the Malay proverb, “If you don’t break the ruyung, how can you get the sago”, underscoring that success is only achieved through determination and effort.
The Chancellor also praised UNIMAS for establishing its Faculty of Law, which he said would produce legal professionals grounded not only in technical knowledge but also in human values and social justice.
He further commended the creation of a research chair dedicated to Sarawak’s history, describing it as a vital step in preserving the state’s cultural and historical legacy for future generations.
During the ceremony, scrolls were presented to 123 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) recipients, alongside four Academic Award winners and three distinguished academics who were conferred the title of Professor Emeritus. In total, 4,100 graduates were celebrated this year, comprising 3,448 undergraduates and 652 postgraduates.
The convocation also highlighted UNIMAS’s growing international recognition. The Vice-Chancellor announced that the university is projected to advance into the 101–200 range in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, a significant leap from its previous 301–400 position.
UNIMAS has also achieved notable placements in global Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) categories, ranking 16th worldwide for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and 36th for SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).
In addition, UNIMAS has been recognised as one of Malaysia’s pioneering public universities to publish an official ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) report, supported by its Low Carbon Campus Roadmap 2030. The institution has also been shortlisted in three categories for the THE Awards Asia 2024, further cementing its reputation in the region.
Research achievements were also celebrated, including the recognition of seven UNIMAS lecturers among the World’s Top 2% Scientists 2025 and the success of the Decentralised AlphaWater AI for Smart Water Management (DAWAI) project, which won the Sarawak Digital Economy Awards 2025.
In his closing remarks, Professor Dr. Ahmad Hata Rasit reminded graduates that their degrees represent not only academic success, but also a responsibility to contribute positively to society. “A degree is not just a symbol of success, but a symbol of trust to serve the community and uphold human values,” he said.
The convocation was attended by Pro-Chancellors, members of the Board of Directors, senior academics, parents, and invited guests, making it a significant occasion for both the university and the wider Sarawak community.
