The Central Board of Muhammadiyah (PP Muhammadiyah) and Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) conferred an Honorary Doctorate (Doctor Honoris Causa) in Law and the Muhammadiyah Distinguished Star Award upon the Crown Prince of Perlis, Malaysia, His Royal Highness (HRH) Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra ibni Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail.
The conferment ceremony was held during an open senate session at the UMSU Auditorium, Jalan Muchtar Basri No. 3, Medan, on Friday (Sept 26).
Chairman of PP Muhammadiyah, Prof. Dr. Haedar Nashir, M.Si, explained that the Muhammadiyah Distinguished Star Award (International Distinguished Partner) was bestowed as a mark of appreciation for the Crown Prince’s tremendous support since the establishment of Universiti Muhammadiyah Malaysia (UMAM).
“Today, Muhammadiyah and UMSU are honored by the presence of an extraordinary guest. He is a role model who served as a bridge for the founding of Muhammadiyah University in Malaysia. With great respect, we present two recognitions: the Honorary Doctorate from UMSU and the International Distinguished Partner Award from Muhammadiyah,” Prof. Haedar said.
He highlighted that the Crown Prince’s contributions in education, economics, and humanitarian efforts reflect progressive values that are highly relevant for the ASEAN community.
“Tuanku is both an intellectual and a role model. His egalitarian and democratic spirit has pioneered openness of thought, which is crucial for future generations,” he added.
In his royal address, the Crown Prince of Perlis expressed deep gratitude and humility at receiving the honors. He emphasized that this recognition was not for him personally, but a result of collective institutional collaboration in Perlis to advance society.
“On behalf of Muhammadiyah and UMSU, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for this extraordinary welcome. This honor is not solely mine but dedicated to the prosperity of the people. May this award inspire us all to create meaningful progress,” he said, accompanied by his wife, Dr. Hj. Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil.
He further underlined that the awards serve as a shared responsibility to strengthen education, uphold religious values, and foster productive cooperation between Perlis and Muhammadiyah.
“I firmly believe that education is the foundation of civilization. Universities such as UMSU play a vital role in shaping knowledgeable and virtuous generations. This honorary title symbolizes our shared commitment to making knowledge a light and good deeds a pillar,” the Crown Prince declared, concluding his remarks with a traditional pantun that drew warm applause.
The conferment was marked by the formal presentation of the honorary doctorate certificate to HRH Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra by UMSU Rector, Prof. Dr. Agussani, MAP, and the awarding of the International Distinguished Partner recognition by Muhammadiyah Chairman, Prof. Dr. Haedar Nashir, M.Si.
Rector Agussani described the occasion as a historic milestone, as the Crown Prince of Perlis became the first international figure to receive an honorary doctorate from UMSU.
“This is both a dream and an aspiration realized—to welcome Tuanku to UMSU. We hope for his continued support as we journey towards becoming a world-class university,” the Rector stated.
He also outlined UMSU’s academic roadmap and collaborations with Malaysia. “Recognition from Malaysia has opened doors for broader academic cooperation,” he explained, noting that UMSU has already been accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and has applied for recognition of its Faculty of Medicine by the Malaysian Ministry of Education.
Looking ahead to the 2027 Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah Congress, Prof. Agussani, as the organizing committee chair, expressed his hope for the Crown Prince’s support and participation, including his visit to UMSU’s ongoing Campus IV development project in Desa Sampali.
The honorary doctorate conferment was carried out in line with academic standards, supervised by Promoter Prof. Dr. Muhammad Arifin, SH, M.Hum (UMSU Vice Rector I) and Co-Promoter Assoc. Prof. Dr. Adi Mansar, S.H., M.Hum. The award was based on the Crown Prince’s significant contributions, notably his authorization for the establishment of Universiti Muhammadiyah Malaysia (UMAM) and his role in strengthening Muhammadiyah’s educational presence in Malaysia.
The ceremony was attended by a distinguished delegation, including Chairperson of PP ‘Aisyiyah Dr. Siti Noordjannah Djohantini, M.M., M.Si, Chief Minister of Perlis Tuan Mohamad Shukri Ramli and his wife, Muhammadiyah leaders Dr. K.H. Saad Ibrahim, M.A. and Prof. Dr. H. Syafiq A. Mughni, M.A, as well as academic leaders, Malaysian consular officials, Muhammadiyah regional representatives, and UMSU faculty, staff, and students.
