At the 21st Convocation Ceremony of Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL), the Chairman of IUKL, Professor Chen Xiaoyun, delivered a powerful and heartfelt speech that left a lasting impression on all in attendance. Speaking at the close of the ceremony, Professor Chen offered more than congratulations—he shared a vision of education grounded in wisdom, culture, and global perspective.
Addressing graduates, families, faculty, and esteemed guests from Malaysia, Nepal, and beyond, Professor Chen celebrated not only academic accomplishments but the character built along the journey. “Each of you has demonstrated, through your actions, a firm commitment to learning, personal growth, and leadership,” he affirmed.
In keeping with the solemnity of the event, Professor Chen kept his spoken remarks succinct, but personally handed every graduate a written message—one that took on a life of its own when a student approached him with unexpected appreciation.
One day before the ceremony, graduate Mr. Chen Youle shared a deeply moving response after reading the written message multiple times. He described it as “a message that bridges Malaysian indigenous culture, the essence of Chinese philosophy, and the goals of global talent development.” In particular, he highlighted how Professor Chen seamlessly wove together the educational mission of the Belt and Road Initiative, Eastern philosophical thought, and a global outlook into what he called “a philosophy of education with a truly cross-civilizational perspective.”
Mr. Chen Youle praised the concluding Malay pantun, which included lines such as, “As the tide rises in the South China Sea, we remember Tan Kah Kee,” calling it a profound tribute to the overseas Chinese spirit, and “With knowledge and action, we soar through the clouds,” which he recognized as a powerful echo of the university’s motto. He concluded his message with a heartfelt reflection: “I believe that not only myself, but also alumni of IUKL and our partner institutions, felt a spark in their hearts—like the ripples of the Klang River—when we heard the words, ‘Be your own beacon.’”
Visibly touched, Professor Chen later shared how deeply this feedback moved him. “Hearing such heartfelt words filled me with joy and encouragement,” he said. “It is your resonance and reflection that give this message its deeper meaning.”
The Chairman went on to thank families, faculty, and staff for their unwavering support of the graduates, as well as the university’s international partners and industry leaders for their ongoing collaboration. His message was not only a send-off for the graduating class but also a reflection of IUKL’s enduring mission: to cultivate talent that is thoughtful, globally minded, and rooted in shared human values.
As IUKL prepares for a new era of growth and transformation, Professor Chen’s closing words remain etched in the hearts of many: “Be your own beacon.” A message of courage, identity, and leadership—one that will guide these graduates as they step into the future.