Pahang: The Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah today officiated the Proclamation Ceremony of Universiti Al-Quran Al-Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah Pahang (UNIQSAAS). Al-Sultan Abdullah said the university embodies the legacy of his late father, Sultan Ahmad Shah, in advancing Islamic education in the state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue his father's legacy by elevating the university's status. He remarked on the institution's potential to become a valuable asset for Pahang and its people. "I am grateful to be able to continue the legacy of my late father. I am merely carrying it forward by elevating the university to another level so that it becomes a gem for the state and the people of Pahang," His Royal Highness said in his royal address.
The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, Tengku Mahkota of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, and Tengku Panglima Raja Brigadier General Tengku Amir Nasser Ibrahim Shah. Other dignitaries present were Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, and Deputy Economy Minister and Paya Besar Member of Parliament Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah.
Al-Sultan Abdullah emphasized the importance of effective management at UNIQSAAS and urged the university's leadership to ensure the institution's smooth operation. He also encouraged students to seek the best educational experiences and assured them of the state's support. "I also hope all students receive the best education. Should anything be required, do inform the state government or myself directly," His Royal Highness said.
He acknowledged the contributions of various parties to the university's development over the past three decades. During the ceremony, Al-Sultan Abdullah signed the proclamation plaque and launched the state government's Quran. His Royal Highness also appointed Tengku Hassanal as the Chancellor of UNIQSAAS, while Wan Rosdy and Tengku Amir Nasser were appointed as Pro-Chancellors.
On February 6, Al-Sultan Abdullah approved the rebranding of Universiti Islam Pahang Sultan Ahmad Shah (UniPSAS) to UNIQSAAS, marking it as the first university of its kind in the country. He stated that the rebranding signifies a commitment to making the Quran the cornerstone of intellectual and spiritual growth in Pahang.