SEPANG: In today's fast-changing world, the constant advancement of technology has transformed business, lifestyle and societal trends at an unprecedented pace, says Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting.
In light of this, the guest professor at Xiamen University said that graduates must equip themselves with the ability to navigate the "onslaught" of technological advances, embrace new ways of doing business, and remain agile in the face of change.
“Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, big data, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) are reshaping industries, creating new business models and altering how we live and work.
“Staying relevant in this fast-changing world means continuously evolving, mastering new technologies and fostering a mindset of resilience and adaptability.
“Ultimately, those who can embrace the rapid pace of innovation and leverage technology to drive positive change will be well-positioned to succeed in the careers of tomorrow,” he said.
Ong related this to an auditorium full of graduates during the second ceremony of the Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM) sixth convocation held here on Saturday (Sept 28).
As lifestyles change, following closely behind these technological advancements, Ong said that people were more connected than ever before through social media, digital communication tools, and smart devices.
He said the way people shop, interact and access information has shifted online, while concepts like the gig economy and remote work have created more flexible career paths.
“This shift has also led to new trends, such as the rise of freelancing, digital nomadism and an increasing focus on sustainability and ethical consumption.
As you stand on the threshold of a new chapter in your lives, I encourage you to carry forward the spirit of curiosity, resilience and compassion that has brought you this far.
“You are now equipped with the knowledge, skills and experiences gained at XMUM and the world is waiting for you to make your mark,” said the former housing and local government minister.
He added that graduation was not only a time for celebration but also a moment for reflection as the students will embark on a new journey.
Additionally, he urged the graduates to be inspired to acquire the power of self-reliance and continuously push yourself to grow from within while being brave and becoming their own ferryman through the rivers of challenges.
Five ceremonies of XMUM’s sixth convocation are being held on Sept 28 and 29 for the graduating class of 2024.
The first ceremony was also held earlier in the morning with the attendance of Board of Engineers Malaysia president Datuk Ahmad Redza Ghulam Rasool, Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Malaysia chargés d'affaires ad interim Zheng Xuefang and Xiamen University president Prof Zhang Zongyi.
This year, XMUM’s Bachelor’s degree programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Physics and English Language and Literature are proud to present their first cohort of graduates.
A total of 1,419 students from 19 undergraduate and five postgraduate programmes are graduating from XMUM this year, including 804 local Malaysian students and 615 international students.
