H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing awards scholarships to UTAR students

Front row, from left: Datuk Lim Si Cheng, Mr Chen Youliang, H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing, Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Puan Sri Chelsia Chan Chau Ha and Dato’ Ng Wan Peng

UTAR was proud to welcome the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Malaysia His Excellency (H.E.) Ambassador Ouyang Yujing and distinguished guests from the Embassy of China to Malaysia to UTAR Sungai Long Campus for the China Ambassador Scholarship Award Presentation Ceremony on 12 July 2024. Accompanying H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing were Minister-Counselor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Malaysia Mr Chen Youliang and Attache Mr Tang Jing.

The China Ambassador Scholarship recipients were 40 UTAR Foundation and undergraduate students consisting of Malays, Chinese, and Indians races. Since 2016, over 290 UTAR students have benefited from the scholarships provided by the Embassy, which amounted to approximately one million ringgit. This ongoing support underscores the Embassy’s dedication to alleviating financial burdens and supporting education at UTAR.

From left: Mr Tang Jing, UTAR Institute of Chinese Studies Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, Datuk Lim Si Cheng, Mr Chen Youliang, H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing, Prof Dato’ Ewe Hong Tat, Dato’ Ng Wan Peng, Mr Ong and Prof Choong

Also present at the ceremony were UTAR Council Members Datuk Lim Si Cheng and Dato’ Ng Wan Peng, UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Chairman of the Lion-Parkson Foundation Puan Sri Chelsia Chan Chau Ha, UTAR Education Foundation Board of Trustees Secretary Mr Ong Whee Tiong, UTAR Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, UTAR deans, directors, scholarship recipients and students.

H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing delivering his speech

H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing acknowledged UTAR’s significant contributions over the past 20 years in cultivating talent, promoting Chinese culture, and enhancing educational cooperation between China and Malaysia. Highlighting the enduring diplomatic relationship between China and Malaysia, he remarked, “We have been in the same boat through the same sea for 50 years, and we have achieved development and prosperity over the past 50 years.” He noted that the relationship between the two economies has consistently been strong and vibrant.

He emphasised the pivotal role of educational exchanges in strengthening cultural ties and fostering mutual understanding. “Through closer interaction and exchange, education will encourage students from China and Malaysia to enhance mutual understanding, develop a global perspective, inspire innovation, and be committed to the lofty ambition of contributing wisdom and skills to the peace and development of mankind,” he stated.

Prof Dato’ Ewe thanking the Embassy of China to Malaysia for providing the China Ambassador Scholarship to UTAR students

Prof Dato’ Ewe expressed, “I extend my deepest gratitude to the Embassy of China for your unwavering support in establishing the China Ambassador Scholarship. This initiative serves as a cornerstone in reinforcing the cultural bonds between our nations and offers a solid foundation for ambitious students to pursue their academic dreams.”

He concluded, “Through these scholarship programmes, our goal is to enhance academic research and promote cultural exchanges, fostering collaboration among scholars from various corners of the globe. It is worth noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between China and Malaysia, adding a special significance to our efforts in building stronger ties and facilitating mutual understanding.”

H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing (centre) presenting certificates to the China Ambassador Scholarship recipients, witnessed by Prof Dato’ Ewe (right)

Thivashini expressing her gratitude to the Embassy of China for providing her with the scholarship

One of the scholarship recipients, Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) student Thivashini Iyakannu said, “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Embassy of China for their kind sponsorship of Malaysian students. Your earnest devotion to promoting educational opportunities reflects a deep commitment to international understanding and collaboration. I am appreciative and grateful for this significant scholarship, a gift that crosses boundaries and helps lives. I appreciate your support of our education and goals.”

Prof Dato’ Ewe (right) presenting a token of appreciation to H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing

Performances by UTAR Sungai Long Chinese Orchestra (left) and UTAR Choir Club

Distinguished guests visiting the UTAR Confucius Institute

Calligraphy session at UTAR Confucius Institute

The appointment of San Min Secondary School as teaching sites for the Confucius Institute at UTAR, witnessed by H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing