KUALA LUMPUR: Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, was conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Management by Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK) at its 24th Convocation Ceremony held at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) here on Saturday.
According to UNIRAZAK, the conferment is a special recognition of Wan Junaidi’s leadership, dedication and contributions in strengthening governance, advancing society, and elevating Sarawak and the nation.
His extensive service in administration, public service and the legislature reflects integrity, wisdom and far-sighted leadership, setting an example for future generations.
In his acceptance speech, Wan Junaidi expressed humility and gratitude for the honour, describing it as a recognition not only of himself but also of the values he has upheld throughout his life.
“I stand before you today with deep humility and profound gratitude in accepting this honorary doctorate from Universiti Tun Abdul Razak,” he said, adding that the honour was also a tribute to the principles of service, integrity and the pursuit of knowledge.
He said he accepted the award on behalf of all those who had shared the journey with him.
“I receive it with humility on behalf of all who have walked this journey with me, colleagues, family and fellow Malaysians committed to building a better nation,” he said.
Congratulating the Class of 2025, Tun Wan Junaidi said their achievement was especially meaningful as they graduated under the theme ‘Breaking Through’.
“This is not a casual term. It speaks of sacrifice, discipline and the willpower required to overcome obstacles that were both personal and global,” he said, reminding graduates that a convocation is not an ending but a new beginning.
Reflecting on his career, Wan Junaidi said public service, like academia, requires perseverance, courage and long-term vision.
“Public service is about creating policies and opportunities that may only bear fruit years later, sometimes for generations to come,” he said.
He recounted his early career as a trained road planner with the Sarawak Public Works Department before serving with the Sarawak Constabulary under the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) from 1964 to 1982, including with the Para-Military Police Field Force during the communist insurgency.
He later retired with the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police.
Wan Junaidi also shared that his pursuit of further education, including legal studies in England and a Doctor of Business Administration, stemmed from his belief that true service to the nation must be anchored in wisdom and the rule of law.
“The greatest investment any nation can make is in education,” he said, adding that his decision to continue his studies abroad was driven by the need to better serve the country in higher capacities.
Addressing the graduates, he emphasised the importance of character alongside competence.
“In public life, the only currency that never depreciates is trust, and trust is built on integrity, empathy and wisdom,” he said, urging graduates to become leaders defined by character rather than title.
Wan Junaidi also expressed his appreciation to UNIRAZAK for the honour and hoped the university would continue to produce visionary graduates who contribute meaningfully to national development.
