USM PENANG, 20 November 2024 – Penang’s 8th Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in International Relations by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) during its 62nd Convocation Ceremony yesterday.

The esteemed honour was conferred by USM Chancellor, HRH Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail, in recognition of TYT Tun’s remarkable contributions to Malaysia's diplomacy, his leadership in advancing Penang’s vision, and his resolute commitment to public service.

Since his appointment as Penang’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri in April 2021, TYT Tun has played a pivotal role in championing the state’s growth, both locally and globally.

His leadership has been central to the successful formulation and implementation of the Penang 2030 Vision, which aims to transform the state into a family-oriented, smart, and sustainable hub.

Under his leadership, Penang has seen a significant increase in foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly in the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector, while also cementing its position as a major tourism destination.

“We are proud to honour TYT Tun with this prestigious award. His lifetime of diplomatic excellence, coupled with his visionary leadership in Penang, has not only elevated the state but has made a lasting impact on Malaysia’s standing in the global arena,” said Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin.

A Visionary Leader

Ahmad Fuzi’s illustrious career spans more than 37 years in the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra), where he served in various senior diplomatic roles, including as Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh and Deputy Chief of Mission in the United States.

He also played a key role in shaping Malaysia’s foreign policy, particularly as the Director-General of the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) and as Malaysia’s Representative to the ASEAN High-Level Task Force for the drafting of the ASEAN Charter.

A Legacy in Diplomacy

In addition to his distinguished diplomatic service, TYT Tun was instrumental in the establishment of the World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) as a platform for global trade and business cooperation, where he contributed for nearly two decades as Co-Chair, International Advisory Panel Member, and Secretary-General.

Upon retiring from Wisma Putra in 2009, TYT Tun continued his impactful career in the corporate sector, assuming leadership roles in several prominent public companies.

His expertise has helped shape Malaysia’s economic landscape, and his leadership continues to guide the nation in its growth and development.

Penang’s Architect of Progress

In his role as Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, TYT Tun has inspired a new era of development in the state, focusing on sustainability, smart technology, and family-friendly policies.

He was also appointed Chancellor of Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) in July 2021, a testament to his ongoing dedication to education and national development.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from USM. It reflects the collective efforts of many who have supported me throughout my journey.

“This award is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of all those who have worked together to build a stronger and more prosperous Malaysia,” said Ahmad Fuzi.

Global Diplomacy, Local Leadership

Ahmad Fuzi continues to inspire through his distinguished diplomatic career and his leadership as Penang’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri.

His vast experience in shaping Malaysia’s foreign policy now informs his efforts to guide Penang’s development, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and economic growth.

With a unique ability to merge global insights with local priorities, TYT Tun is driving Penang’s transformation into a smarter and more dynamic state.

Besides Ahmad Fuzi, USM also recognised the country's prominent corporate figures by awarding an Honorary Doctor in Management to Prasarana chairman Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim.

It is to appreciate his extraordinary contributions to digital transformation and telecommunications worldwide, as well as the growth of the country's public transport sector.

In the same session, the title of Professor Emeritus was awarded to two USM academic figures who have greatly contributed to the development of knowledge at the national and international levels.

They are Dato’ Dr. Chan Ngai Weng, also known as "Malaysia's Waterman" from the School of Humanities for his significant contribution to the field of sustainable water resource management, while the other is Dr. Abu Hassan Ahmad, a highly respected honorary professor at the School for Biological Sciences, who specialises in research related to vector control and mosquito-borne diseases as well as sustainable pest management.