Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (HWUM) introduced its ‘Driven by Purpose’ campaign on February 24, 2024, aiming to revolutionize Malaysia’s higher education landscape by instilling resilience and imparting essential future-ready skills to students. The campaign’s innovative approach aligns with Malaysia’s vision of fostering a vibrant, inclusive economy.

The launch event, held at the Heriot-Watt University Malaysia campus in Putrajaya, was graced by the presence of Yang Berhormat Datuk Technologist Mustapha Sakmud, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia. He commended the university for its dedication to educational excellence, in accordance with the national educational agenda.

At the heart of the ‘Driven by Purpose’ Campaign lies the adoption of ‘Purpose-Driven Education’ initiatives, aimed at cultivating well-rounded, purpose-driven leaders who excel academically and contribute to societal advancement, echoing Malaysia’s MADANI vision.

Heriot-Watt University Malaysia has pledged to integrate principles such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, growth mindset, resilience, creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation into its curriculum.

Yang Berhormat Datuk Technologist Mustapha Sakmud, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia, commended the initiative, stating, “Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s ‘Driven by Purpose’ Campaign epitomizes the Government’s vision for a transformative higher education system. It advocates for a comprehensive educational approach that fosters a sense of purpose among youth, essential for the country’s aspiration to achieve inclusive, high-income status.”

Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s Provost and Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the Campaign’s alignment with holistic youth development, emphasizing the pivotal role of purpose-driven education in fostering inclusivity and economic prosperity in Malaysia.

One highlight of the event was the ‘Educational Excellence: A Purpose-Driven Education’ panel discussion, featuring distinguished figures including Ms. Sian May (Head of School for The Alice Smith School), Datuk (Dr) Nora Abdul Manaf (Maybank Group Chief Human Capital Officer and Honorary Graduate of Heriot-Watt University), Professor Dato’ Dr. Andrew Mohanraj (Malaysian Mental Health Association President), and Professor Richard A. Williams (Principal & Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University). They shared valuable insights on the profound impact of purpose in education and its role in fostering personal and professional development.