Anwar Says Tsinghua University's Honorary Professorship Reflects Enduring Malaysia-China Friendship

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim describes his honorary professorship conferred by Tsinghua University recently as a significant milestone in the deepening relationship between Malaysia and China.

While expressing his profound gratitude for the honour, Anwar said it also symbolises the enduring friendship between Malaysia and China and reflects the shared values and aspirations that bind the two countries.

“I thank Tsinghua University and the Chinese government for this tremendous honour … I am deeply honoured to accept this honorary professorship from Tsinghua University.

“I accept this honorary professorship on behalf of the people of Malaysia. This recognition symbolises the enduring and vibrant friendship between our two nations and our shared vision for peace, progress and prosperity," he said in a Facebook posting today.

During his recent working visit to China, Anwar was conferred the honorary professorship by Tsinghua University at its Shanghai campus on Nov 5.

Anwar also expressed his hope that the honorary professorship would catalyse further partnerships between Malaysian educational institutions and Tsinghua University, one of China’s most esteemed institutions.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged Tsinghua University as one of the world’s leading institutions, particularly noted for its groundbreaking work in science, technology and innovation.

He described the institution as ‘a cradle of leaders and ideas that have driven China’s remarkable rise’, commending its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and fostering an environment conducive to global dialogue.

Anwar also emphasised the challenges of the contemporary world, where identity politics and division are increasingly shaping global narratives, saying there is a need for collective action through civilisational dialogue to counteract divisive ideologies and foster unity.

“We live in a time when the rhetoric of conflict often overshadows our immense potential for cooperation, but through dialogue, rooted in respect for each other's histories and cultures, we can overcome these challenges and achieve lasting peace,” he said.

In line with his broader vision for a world of shared harmony, Anwar drew upon the values of two great ethical traditions, Islam and Confucianism, emphasising moderation, balance and social harmony.

He pointed to Confucianism's “Zhongyong” (Doctrine of the Mean) and Islam's principle of ‘wasatiyyah’ as guiding philosophies that highlight the importance of balance in addressing the world's complex issues.

“Both principles highlight the importance of balancing the ‘middle path’ to nurture social harmony and sustainable progress. It provides essential frameworks for addressing the urgent issues of our time and serves as a lodestar that guides us toward solutions that genuinely serve the common good,” he said.

-- BERNAMA