PENANG, 5 Aug 2013 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) community are reminded to appreciate the blessings of our country’s independence, sovereignty and prosperity enjoyed over the years by realizing it through changing the way we work that can contribute to the university’s excellence.

"Similar to our concerted effort in defending the sovereignty of our country, we should also do our best possible to change the way we work that can contribute to the continuity and excellence of our university," said the Vice-Chancellor Professor Dato’ Dr. Omar Osman.
 
Speaking in the monthly assembly with the Chancellory staff at the Chancellory Building today, the Vice-Chancellor reminded everyone the importance of the continuous efforts made to improve the excellence of the university.
 
"For example, when we love our country, we need to understand each of the Rukun Negara principle from ‘Belief in God’ to the fifth principle ‘Courtesy and Morality’," said Omar.

He added that, if the Imam of Damam Medina who was a guest of the university’s Mesjid Al-Malik Khalid can pray daily for peace and goodwill in Malaysia, how much more we as citizen of Malaysia should pray for the well-being of our own country and its citizens. 
 
The Vice-Chancellor also extended Aidilfitri greetings of his family and him to the entire campus community and reminded everyone to drive carefully during this festive season.
 
"We see many who become victims of road accidents, hence it is best to drive carefully on the road and be cautious in anything we do," added the Vice-Chancellor.
 
Also present at the assembly were the Deputy Vice-Chancellors and the Registrar. The Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Vice-Chancellors then distributed USM duit raya envelopes issued by the Strategic Communications Office to all Muslim staff who attended the assembly. - Text: Mohamad Abdullah/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md. Isa/Translation: Tan Ewe Hoe