Minister of Human Resource Richard Riot was today conferred a honorary doctorate in transformational leadership by Limkokwing University of Creative Technology.

The chancellor of Limkokwing University, the sultanah of Pahang, Sultanah Hajah Kalsom pinned the honour during the university's July 2017 Graduation at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC) here today.

Also present were the founder and president of Limkokwing University, Lim Kok Wing and Limkokwing University pro-vice chancellor Cedric Bell.

The doctorate was in recognition of Riot's passion, commitment and dedication to successfully engage in endeavours to uplift the nation's workforce.

In his speech, Riot said he was proud to be associated with the university which has more than 30,000 students at 12 campuses in Asia, Africa and Europe.

He said all students must be equipped with knowledge and skills to be globally competitive and face the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

"All of us should never stop learning. There are always new skills to learn and techniques for us to adopt," he said.

Today, more than 1,200 students from 64 countries received their scrolls at the July 2017 Graduation themed "Design Your Future" which witnessed graduates from Europe, the Americas, Africa and many parts Asia and Malaysia receive their scrolls in the first graduation held for Malaysian campuses this year.

Meanwhile, in her speech, Sultanah Hajah Kalsom urged all graduates to apply their knowledge to create a much needed positive impact for a better world and future generation.

“You are empowered to be the future leaders of the world. Young people like you play an important part in addressing some of the most pressing global issues affecting the state of the world.

“Your journey has only just begun. Limkokwing University has given you the foundation – the best education any university can offer. This university will be proud of you because you have learnt how to use your power to change the world. Use this university, your alma mater, as the hub of all your creative initiatives.

“I urge you to go out into the world with passion; with a driven determination to use your knowledge and skills to make a difference. You have the power to engage, inspire and empower others so make the changes for a better world for you and the future generations,” she said.

Meanwhile, Sultanah Hajah Kalsom congratulated Lim who has globally changed the entire tertiary education landscape of not only Malaysia but in the countries where campuses are situated – in Asia, Africa and Europe.

“A global icon for creativity and innovation, he has changed the lives of thousands of young people all over the world. He has inspired, empowered and touched their hearts and minds. He has laid the foundation for youth all over the world to draw their own blueprints of a future they want for themselves,” she said.

The sultanah of Pahang also congratulated Lim on his recent appointment as chairman, advisory board, United Nations Global Compact, Malaysia and advisor to the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma.

- Bernama