5,758 NEW STUDENTS TAKE PLEDGE, OFFICIALLY JOIN THE USM COMMUNITY
A total of 5,758 new students of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) for the 2026/2027 Academic Session officially joined the university community after taking their pledge during the Majlis Sambutan Siswa (MSS) under the Program Siswa Lestari, held recently at the Dewan Tuanku Syed Putra (DTSP).
USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, congratulated and welcomed the new intake, who successfully secured places at the university from more than 37,000 applications received for the current academic session.
Among the new intake are 999 international students from 37 countries, further strengthening USM’s diverse and vibrant global community as they embark on their academic journey at the university.
Addressing the students, Abdul Rahman encouraged them to make their opportunity to study at USM a turning point in their lives and for their families.
"To all students, let your time at USM be a journey of personal growth and transformation. Be courageous, independent, and proactive in exploring and creating opportunities, regardless of your background," he said.
He reminded students that university life should not be viewed solely as a pathway to obtaining a degree but as an opportunity to develop into knowledgeable, resilient, and well-rounded individuals capable of uplifting their families and contributing meaningfully to society.
In navigating an increasingly technology-driven world, Abdul Rahman urged students to strengthen their digital competencies, data literacy, and technology-based thinking while embracing innovation in a creative, ethical, and responsible manner. He also emphasised the importance of becoming responsible digital citizens.
He reaffirmed that student welfare remains a key priority for USM through a wide range of support initiatives, including financial assistance, zakat aid, accommodation, healthcare services, counselling support, as well as dedicated assistance for students with disabilities (OKU) and those under the Siswa SULUNG programme.
Abdul Rahman stressed that financial limitations and personal circumstances should never hinder a student's pursuit of success.
He encouraged students facing challenges to seek assistance and make full use of the support available throughout their studies.
The new students begin their academic journey at a time when USM is ranked 128th in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and placed fifth globally and first in Asia in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026.
Concluding his address, Abdul Rahman called on students to honour the sacrifices made by their parents and families and to make the most of their years at USM by building knowledge, values, and the courage to drive positive change, in line with the university's motto, "We Lead."