USM chancellor Raja Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail (seated) conferring the honorary doctorate to the Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak at the USM 62nd Convocation Ceremony.
GELUGOR: Penang’s eighth Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, was awarded an honorary doctorate in International Relations by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) during its 62nd Convocation Ceremony today.
The honour was conferred by USM chancellor, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail, in recognition of Ahmad Fuzi’s contributions to Malaysia’s diplomacy, his leadership in advancing Penang’s vision, and his resolute commitment to public service.
Since his appointment as Penang’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri in April 2021, he has played a pivotal role in championing the state’s growth, both locally and globally.
His leadership has been central to the successful formulation and implementation of the Penang 2030 Vision, which aims to transform the state into a family- oriented, smart and sustainable hub.
Under his leadership, Penang has seen a significant increase in foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly in the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector, while also cementing its position as a major tourism destination.
“We are proud to honour TYT Tun with this prestigious award. His lifetime of diplomatic excellence, coupled with his visionary leadership in Penang, has not only elevated the state but has made a lasting impact on Malaysia’s standing in the global arena,” said Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin.
Visionary leader
Ahmad Fuzi’s career spans more than 37 years in the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra), beginning in 1972 as an administrative and diplomatic officer.
Throughout his distinguished service, he held numerous key positions as Malaysia’s representative abroad in various roles: as the second secretary in Moscow, Russia; counsellor in The Hague, Netherlands; Deputy High Commissioner in Canberra, Australia; Deputy Chief of Mission in Washington, the United States; and High Commissioner in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
As the Foreign Affairs Ministry secretary-general, he played a pivotal role in shaping and advising on Malaysia’s foreign policy.
He also assumed the role of director-general of the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) and as the Special Duties Ambassador, representing Malaysia on the Asean High-Level Task Force for the Drafting of the Asean Charter and the High-Level Panel for drafting the Terms of Reference of the Asean Human Rights Body.
These positions highlight Ahmad Fuzi’s contributions to diplomacy and international relations, solidifying his legacy as one of Malaysia’s most accomplished diplomats.
Legacy in diplomacy
In addition to his diplomatic service, Ahmad Fuzi was instrumental in the establishment of the World Islamic Economic Forum as a platform for global trade and business cooperation, where he contributed for nearly two decades as the International Advisory Panel Member co-chair and as secretary-general.
USM vice-chancellor, Prof Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamed (middle) paid a courtesy call to Ahmad Fuzi (left) at Seri Mutiara in October this year.
Upon retiring from Wisma Putra in 2009, he continued his career in the corporate sector, assuming leadership roles in several prominent public companies.
His expertise has helped shape Malaysia’s economic landscape, and his leadership continues to guide the nation in its growth and development.
Penang’s architect of progress
In his role as Penang’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri, he has inspired a new era of development in the state, focusing on sustainability, smart technology and family-friendly policies.
He was also appointed as Universiti Tenaga Nasional (Uniten) chancellor in July 2021, a testament to his ongoing dedication to education and national development.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from Universiti Sains Malaysia.
“It reflects the collective efforts of many who have supported me throughout my journey.
“This award is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of all those who have worked together to build a stronger and more prosperous Malaysia,” said Ahmad Fuzi.
Ahmad Fuzi (middle) was present at the USM Iftar Perdana 2024 to grace the event.
Global diplomacy, local leadership
Ahmad Fuzi continues to inspire through his distinguished diplomatic career and his leadership as Penang’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri. His vast experience in shaping Malaysia’s foreign policy now informs his efforts to guide Penang’s development, focusing on sustainability, innovation and economic growth.
With a unique ability to merge global insights with local priorities, he is driving Penang’s transformation into a smarter and more dynamic state.
Academic honours
Ahmad Fuzi has received two honorary doctorates so far in recognition of his contributions:
> Honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership from Binary University of Management and Entrepreneurship (January 14, 2023).
> Honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Management from SEGi University (June 29, 2024).As one of Malaysia’s premier research universities, USM is recognised for its innovation, academic excellence and contributions to society.
With a strong emphasis on research and education, the institution is dedicated to developing leaders who can make meaningful contributions to Malaysia and the global community.
