Early in life, many lifelong learners encounter phrases such as “hit the books” and “burn the midnight oil.” However, education is not merely about studying textbooks and passing examinations; it also encompasses learning beyond the classroom to foster holistic development. Unfortunately, not all aspiring learners are afforded equal opportunities or conducive environments in which to excel academically
Smiles and dreams - recipients displaying their scholarship certificates after the Kampar Campus ceremony
As a testament to hard work, academic excellence, and equal opportunity, UTAR awarded more than 280 external and internal scholarships to students of UTAR Kampar Campus at the UTAR Scholarship Award Presentation Ceremony for June 2025 Intake, held on 9 July 2025. The ceremony was organised by the Department of Scholarships and Financial Aid (DSFA).
Prof Dato’ Ewe encouraging students to develop strong character while actively engaging in university life
UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat remarked, “At UTAR, we remain steadfast in our mission to make quality education accessible to all, regardless of financial background. Since our founding, we have worked closely with our community and generous partners to support deserving students on their educational journeys.”
Reflecting on the importance of education, he advised the new students, “Education is a transformative force. As scholarship recipients, you are entrusted with a responsibility that extends beyond academic success. This journey is not merely about acquiring knowledge, but also cultivating curiosity, embracing challenges, and nurturing a lifelong commitment to learning and service. I encourage you to be bold in seeking new perspectives, and to grow not only in intellectual but also in integrity, empathy, and leadership.”
“May your academic journey continue to be filled with inspiration, achievement, and the limitless possibilities that come with a heart committed to learning and service,” he shared with words of encouragement.
Yashaswini Asmeera reflecting on her aspirations to contribute to society and uplift her family
As a recipient of the UTAR Scholarship for Top Achievers, Foundation in Arts student Yashaswini Asmeera Vijayabalan shared her aspirations and experiences. She said, “This is not just a scholarship; it’s a push to dream bigger and a reminder that I’m capable of doing much more. It also reminds me that behind every success are people who believe in us and opportunities that we must treasure. I hope one day I can give back, whether by helping others, sharing knowledge, or contributing to the society that has given me so much.”
She added, “I am proud that I can be a role model to my brothers and sisters. This will certainly motivate them to follow in my footsteps.”
Ahmad Azim expressing his gratitude to the Silent Foundation, UTAR, and his family
Bachelor of Finance (Honours) student Ahmad Azim bin Adzham, who is a recipient of the Muhibbah Students Program (MSP), said, “Thank you to the Silent Foundation and UTAR for your faith in me and this life-changing gift. This scholarship is not just a recognition of my past achievements; it is a beacon of the bright future ahead of me. As I move forward in my academic journey, I am committed to making the most of this incredible opportunity. I will study diligently, not only for my own benefit but also to honour the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion that represent this scholarship.”
He added, “To my family, I owe everything. Your unwavering love, sacrifices, and belief in me have been my guiding light.”
Lim sharing how the scholarship has eased his family’s burden and renewed his hope for the future
Bachelor of Information Technology (Honours) Computer Engineering student Lim Chun Sin, who is a recipient of the Budimas Charitable Foundation Scholarship, reflected on the difficulty of getting a proper education due to his family’s financial constraints. He said, “Life became very difficult for our family since my father passed away when I was 12 years old. My eldest brother made a great sacrifice and left school at the age of 15 to start working so he could support us. He worked tirelessly to take care of us and to support my education. I could see how exhausted he was, yet he never gave up. There were times when I feared I might have to give up my studies because of our financial struggles.”
He continued, “This scholarship changes everything. It has lifted a huge burden off my shoulders and my brother’s. I can now focus on my studies with less worry and more hope for the future. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Budimas Charitable Foundation, as it has given me renewed strength and purpose.”
Kampar Campus recipients receiving their scholarship awards from Prof Dato’ Ewe
The Kampar Campus ceremony was witnessed by UTAR Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology (FEGT) Dean Ir Prof Dr Ng Choon Aun, Centre for Foundation Studies (CFS) Kampar Campus Director Ts Tan Lee Siew, Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Deputy Dean for Student Development and Industrial Training Dr Ling Liong Ngo, Faculty of Arts and Social Science (FAS) Deputy Dean for Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Ts Dr Khor Kheng Kia, Teh Hong Piow Faculty of Business and Finance (THP FBF) Deputy Dean for Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Dr Peter Tan Sin Howe, Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FICT) Head of Department of Information Systems Ts Dr Suthashini Subramaniam, ViTrox Academy Academic Head Ir Dr Koay Loke Kean, Budimas Charitable Foundation Operation Executive (Scholarship) Ms Syharlyn Balasekaran, Budimas Charitable Foundation Assistance Manager (Operations) Mr Cedric Siew Chun Soon, Shen Jai High School Principal Mr Choo Weng Hey, Shen Jai High School Head of Counseling Madam Tan Siew Kuan, SMK Methodist ACS Ipoh Counseling Teacher En Noor Aswandy bin Abdullah, and family members of scholarship recipients.
Recipients serving tea to their parents as gratitude for their unwavering support
Recipients who graduated from Shen Jai High School sharing their joy with Mr Choo (far left) and Madam Tan (far right)
Front row, from left: Mr Cedric Siew, Mr Choo, Ms Tan, Dr Khor, Prof Ng, Prof Dato’ Ewe, Dr Peter Tan, Dr Ling, Dr Suthashini, and Dr Koay with sponsors, recipients and their families during the Kampar Campus closing ceremony
To date, UTAR has awarded over RM219.15million in internal scholarships and RM20.4million in interest-free study loans, benefitting more than 23,000 students. On the other hand, the University has awarded over RM28.5million in external scholarships and RM1.36billion in external study loans.
The University commits to providing inclusive education for local students, opening doors to limitless possibilities for aspiring learners who strive to better themselves and their communities.
UTAR extends its deepest gratitude to the sponsors for lending a hand to deserving students, providing them invaluable opportunities to kickstart their university life and empowering them to pursue their dreams with confidence and purpose.
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