VICE-CHANCELLOR CONNECTS WITH 3,913 NEW USM STUDENTS AT WELCOMING DINNER
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) welcomed 3,913 new students to its Main Campus for the 2026/2027 Academic Session, marking the beginning of their academic journey in a wide range of undergraduate degree programmes.
In conjunction with the Siswa Lestari Programme, a Welcoming Dinner was held to foster closer engagement between the university management, staff members, residents of Desasiswa Tekun, and newly enrolled students.
Held under the theme “Celebrating Mahasiswa Lestari, Strengthening Unity,” the event was more than a dinner gathering. It served as a platform to nurture a spirit of togetherness, unity, and character building among the new students as they embark on their university journey.
In his address, USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato' Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, emphasised that USM regards every student admitted to the university as an individual with the potential to grow and make meaningful contributions to industry, society, and the nation, regardless of family background, ethnicity, or educational pathway.
He noted that students should make the most of the opportunities available to them throughout their university experience to acquire knowledge, develop their talents, and realise their full potential.
“Families at home have high hopes for their children. Today, we all begin from the same starting point. Three or four years from now, the outcomes may be different, but everyone possesses the same potential. What makes the difference is whether you choose to seize the opportunities available and strive to be your best, or simply do the bare minimum,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also reaffirmed USM’s commitment to supporting students who face challenges during their studies, including academic, financial, and welfare-related concerns, ensuring that no obstacle stands in the way of their success.
Meanwhile, Desasiswa Tekun Freshmen Representative, Danial Zulsyahmy Zulazly, expressed his appreciation to the university management for the warm welcome extended to new students from their first day on campus.
He also conveyed his gratitude to the Siswa Lestari Programme Facilitators (PPSL) and the Desasiswa Tekun Residents’ Council (MPDT) for their unwavering dedication and commitment throughout the implementation of the Siswa Lestari Week (MSL).
“Thank you for your patience and tireless efforts, day and night. From the moment we arrived carrying heavy luggage and wearing uncertain expressions, the PPSL members never stopped guiding us, assisting us, showing us the way, and ensuring that our welfare and safety were always well taken care of,” he said.
The Siswa Lestari Programme Welcoming Dinner reflects USM’s commitment to ensuring that new students receive the support and guidance needed as they transition into university life.
Through the guidance of university staff and senior students, newcomers are encouraged not only to pursue academic excellence but also to cultivate strong character, leadership qualities, personal integrity, and a spirit of volunteerism, enabling them to become responsible individuals who contribute meaningfully to society and the nation.
Also present were Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and International, Professor Datin Dr. Noor Hazlina Ahmad; Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A. Wahab; Legal Adviser, University Legal Office, Dato' Dr. Khairul Anuar Che Azmi; Director of the Institutional Planning and Strategic Centre, Professor Dr. Saidatulakmal Mohd; Chairman of the Majlis Penggawa, Dr. Abdul Rais Abdul Latiff; President of the USM Student Representative Council (MPPUSM), Azfar Al Hafiz Azman; as well as USM principal officers, penggawa and assistant penggawa of Desasiswa Tekun, and the Siswa Lestari Programme Facilitators for the 2026/2027 Academic Session.