UNIVERSITY students must not mistake the ability to insult others for courage, the Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has warned, expressing concern over a culture of hatred and disrespect among some young people.
His Royal Highness said students should uphold respectful discourse, particularly when discussing religion and institutions, instead of using their voices to demean others.
“Be courageous in speaking up, but remain courteous in your words; dare to disagree, but do not lose your sense of judgement,” the Sultan said at the proclamation ceremony for Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah’s (UMPSA) Tuanku Chancellor Hall in Pekan on Wednesday.
The Pahang Ruler said university students should become voices of wisdom rather than contribute to hostility and division.
His Royal Highness also expressed concern over social problems affecting young people, including drug abuse, bullying, digital gambling and inappropriate social interactions.
On education, the Sultan cautioned against allowing the pursuit of academic qualifications to overshadow the real purpose of learning.
He said artificial intelligence (AI) should be used to strengthen students' thinking and capabilities, rather than become a shortcut that discourages independent thought, research and innovation.
“Let us not produce a generation rich in certificates but poor in knowledge, eloquent in speech but barren in thought,” he said.
The Sultan also called on UMPSA to strengthen partnerships with the state government, industry, foundations and alumni to expand educational assistance, research and local talent development.
He said the university's expertise in technology, manufacturing, automotive, logistics and modern agriculture should translate into tangible benefits for the people. - October 22, 2026