Celebrating Purpose-Driven Education and Visionary Leaders at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s 2025 Graduation

Datuk Yasmin Mahmood, digital strategist and former CEO of the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Dato’ Sri Idris Jala, Chairman of PEMANDU Associates and Datuk Yvonne Chia, the Independent Non-Executive Chairman of Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia were each awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University in recognition of their outstanding contributions to their respective fields.

Putrajaya, 10 July 2025 – Heriot-Watt University Malaysia celebrated a significant milestone,honouring the achievements of its graduating class of 2025 in a ceremony that showcased the University’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, leadership, and global impact at the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel.

During the ceremony, the University’s Pro-Chancellor, Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David, conferred degrees
upon graduates from multiple disciplines, recognising their dedication and hard work.

In her address, Datuk (Dr) Nicol said, “Graduation marks a significant milestone in your journey.Today, we don’t just recognise your academic accomplishments, but also the values that bring us together. Heriot-Watt’s legacy of inclusivity, empowerment, and its steadfast commitment to providing a meaningful purpose-driven education for all resonates strongly with my own convictions.

“The University’s dedication to fostering excellence, not only for its students but also for society and the global economy, is truly commendable. Education is the bedrock of shared understanding and sustainable progress. It equips us with the tools to create a future where knowledge and collaboration allow us to overcome any obstacle. Today, we celebrate your extraordinary achievements, and I eagerly anticipate the incredible contributions you will make in the years to come,” she added.

Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University said, “At Heriot-Watt, we are committed to nurturing global citizens who are innovative, entrepreneurial, and socially responsible. This ceremony is a celebration of that mission, and of the remarkable achievements of our students, staff, and partners who make this institution thrive across the globe.”

A significant highlight of the day was the conferment of the Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University upon three distinguished Malaysian leaders, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to business, public service, and digital transformation. The honorary graduates were:

Dato’ Sri Idris Jala, Chairman of PEMANDU Associates, is a globally recognised expert in transformational leadership, particularly through his Big Fast Results (BFR) methodology. Under his leadership, PEMANDU has successfully applied BFR across key economic sectors, driving significant public sector reforms in Malaysia. Dato' Sri Idris has held prominent leadership roles in both government and the private sector, including serving as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department and CEO of Malaysia Airlines, where he spearheaded major turnaround efforts. The University honoured Dato' Sri Idris for his visionary leadership in driving Malaysia’s socio-economic reforms and for pioneering the BFR approach to national transformation.

Datuk Yvonne Chia, the Independent Non-Executive Chairman of Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia, is one of ASEAN’s most respected corporate leaders. With decades of experience in banking, she has
played a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s financial landscape through strategic leadership, high-impact mergers and acquisitions, and steadfast guidance during times of growth and crisis. In addition, she is a passionate advocate for mentorship and talent development within the financial sector. Datuk Yvonne was honoured by the University for her extraordinary contributions to Malaysia’s financial sector and beyond.

Datuk Yasmin Mahmood, a leading digital strategist and former CEO of the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), has held senior leadership roles at renowned global technology firms such as Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, and Dell. She also served as Chairperson of POS Malaysia in a non executive capacity and was acknowledged internationally by Apolitical as one of the world’s 100 most influential people in digital government. Datuk Yasmin was honoured by the University for her exceptional leadership in shaping Malaysia’s digital economy and for her pivotal role in advancing digital transformation in both Malaysia and across the ASEAN region.

Each of these distinguished individuals has made an indelible impact on Malaysia’s development, and
their contributions continue to shape the future of business, governance, and digital innovation in the
country and beyond.

Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, Provost and CEO of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia said, “At Heriot- Watt University, we are committed to nurturing purpose-driven leaders who are not only academically accomplished but also driven to create lasting, meaningful impact in business, technology, and society, both in Malaysia and beyond. As we celebrate the success of our graduates today, we are reminded of the transformative power of education and the impact our alumni will have across these sectors.

“We also honour the remarkable achievements of our honorary graduates, Dato' Sri Idris, Datuk Yvonne, and Datuk Yasmin, whose contributions to Malaysia's business, governance, and digital landscapes serve as a powerful source of inspiration. Their leadership exemplifies the very principles that guide our university; empowering individuals to lead with purpose, drive societal progress, and shape the future. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our graduates. We are proud to be part of their journey and excited to witness the positive change they will bring to the world,” he added.

For more information on Heriot-Watt University Malaysia and its world-class programmes, please visit
https://www.hw.ac.uk/malaysia/

About HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA 

Heriot-Watt University is a global research-led university with five campuses in Scotland (Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, and Orkney), Dubai and Malaysia. Around 27,000 students from 154 countries are currently studying with us. We have 166,000 alumni in more than 190 countries. 

We are specialists in business, engineering, design and the physical, social, sports, environmental and life sciences subjects which make a real impact on the world and society. 

Heriot-Watt was founded in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1821 as the world’s first mechanics institute. In 1966, it became a university by Royal Charter. The university is named after 18th century Scottish engineer and inventor James Watt and 16th century Scottish philanthropist and goldsmith George Heriot. 

86.8% of Heriot-Watt's research is classed as world-leading and internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework 2021 – the UK’s system for assessing the excellence of research in UK higher education providers. 

Heriot-Watt University Malaysia has been offering high-quality British education and international study opportunities since 2014. Its purpose-built, state-of-the-art, lakeside campus in Putrajaya is the first “green campus” in Malaysia; catering to a global network of students, particularly those from bordering countries.

Committed to producing future-ready graduates who will go on to make an impact in the world, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia introduced a Purpose Driven Education approach to student and staff development in 2017. The University’s Purpose Driven Education focuses beyond academic excellence and promotes the holistic development of individuals. This purpose driven approach enables students and staff to better understand themselves, discover a sense of purpose, and mobilise that purpose into impact. 

For more information on Heriot-Watt University Malaysia and its world-class programmes, kindly visit https://www.hw.ac.uk/malaysia/