Contributions of former council chairman recognised by TAR UMT
KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik has been bestowed with an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Business by Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) in recognition of his transformative leadership and contributions.
The prestigious accolade was conferred by TARC Education Foundation board of trustees chairman Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong during the TAR UMT convocation ceremony here yesterday.
Dr Wee commended Dr Ling for his exceptional leadership as council chairman of the then TAR College from 1986 to 2004, which earned him the distinction of “Father of TAR College Development” in 2004.
“This honorary doctorate acknowledges his immense contributions and steadfast dedication to the institution over 18 transformative years,” the MCA president said during his speech at the TAR UMT KL campus yesterday.
Dr Wee also noted that during Dr Ling’s leadership, the KL campus saw considerable expansion and development, and TAR College established branches in five states.
“His visionary approach led to the introduction of many new courses and groundbreaking collaborations with international universities and professional bodies,” he said.
One of Dr Ling’s significant legacies is the Merit Scholarship scheme, launched in 1997 to foster academic excellence.
The former minister and MCA president also championed fundraising initiatives that expanded the interest-free student loan fund, enabling financially disadvantaged and deserving students to pursue higher education at TAR UMT.
Setting the bar: Dr Wee (standing, second from right) presenting the Honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Business award to Dr Ling (centre). Looking on are TAR UMT board of governors chairman Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy (standing, left) and TAR UMT president Dr Lee Sze Wei (standing, right). — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
“We are deeply grateful to Dr Ling for his unwavering efforts, guidance and profound belief in the potential of every student at TAR UMT. This honorary doctorate is a fitting tribute to your dedication and lasting impact on the institution,” Dr Wee added.
Separately, Dr Ling expressed his gratitude for the conferment.
“I accept this honorary doctorate with pride and immense gratitude,” he said.
Dr Ling also extended his heartfelt congratulations to TAR UMT on the occasion of its convocation.
He praised TAR UMT for its notable achievements in producing graduates with practical skills and knowledge that are essential for the nation’s productivity and economic and social growth.
“TAR UMT has produced numerous world leaders in various competitions and this is a positive indicator of its progress.
“It is the beginning of a new era for thousands of TAR UMT graduates,” he added.
TAR UMT president Prof Dr Lee Sze Wei commended Dr Ling for his visionary leadership, dedication and tireless commitment to education.
Dr Ling served as the fourth and longest-serving council chairman of Tunku Abdul Rahman College (now TAR UMT).
Under his leadership, student enrolment surged from 7,500 in 1986 to 30,000 by 2004, and the number of courses expanded from 23 to 116.
He was appointed chancellor of Tunku Abdul Rahman University (UTAR) in January 2017 after serving as UTAR chairman from 2002 to 2017.
