Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Leadership and Governance by the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).
At a special convocation ceremony, the Queen of Pahang and Constitutional Head of IIUM, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, conferred the honorary doctorate upon the Prime Minister.
Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that receiving an honorary doctorate from the International Islamic University Malaysia was a great honor for him. “It is with humility that I accept this degree in Leadership and Governance from this prestigious institution, which stands as a beacon of knowledge and wisdom,” he said.
The Prime Minister remarked that he had dedicated over 40 years of his humble services to the people of Punjab. “I have always served with sincerity, dedication, and steadfastness. Today, I bow my head in gratitude before Almighty Allah as I receive this honor with deep appreciation,” he added.
He expressed hope that his visit would further strengthen educational partnerships between IIUM and Pakistan’s leading universities. “It is an honor for me to be associated with one of the most respected institutions in the Muslim world,” he stated.
Highlighting the challenges facing the Muslim Ummah, the Prime Minister said: “Today, the Muslim world is confronted with immense challenges such as conflicts, poverty, and disunity. In these trying times, we must hold firmly to our values and ethics as taught by Islam so that we can regain our rightful place among the nations.”
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of strengthening academic collaboration between Pakistan and Malaysia. “Both our nations are blessed with vibrant youth. As leaders and servants, it is our duty to provide them the right platforms so they can serve humanity with compassion and determination,” he said.
Recalling the inspiring vision of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the great poet-philosopher of the East, the Prime Minister quoted his famous verse:
> “Sabaq phir parh sadaqat ka, adalat ka, shuja’at ka,
Liya jayega tujh se kaam, duniya ki imamat ka.”
(“Read again the lesson of truth, justice, and courage;
The leadership of the world will be demanded from you.”)
The Prime Minister prayed for IIUM’s continued success and progress.
Meanwhile, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, Queen of Pahang and Constitutional Head of IIUM, said it was a privilege to confer the honorary doctorate in Leadership and Governance upon Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
She lauded his visionary, disciplined, and compassionate leadership spanning more than four decades. “From leading Punjab to serving as Prime Minister, you have demonstrated that true leadership is not about power but about purpose,” she said.
The Queen praised initiatives such as the Punjab Education Endowment Fund, which opened the doors of higher education to thousands of students who could never have imagined attending a university.
She noted that Pakistan has long been a brotherly nation and a founding partner of IIUM. “Under your leadership, this bond has grown even stronger,” she added.
“Leadership,” she said, “is about transforming lives and uplifting societies through education. In a world that often values glamour over morality, your leadership reminds us that good governance is rooted in sincerity, service, and strong character.”
Citing the words of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), she said: “The best among you are those who are most beneficial to others.”
She further stated that Pakistani students, faculty, and alumni continue to enrich IIUM intellectually and spiritually while serving the shared mission of the Muslim Ummah.
“This honorary degree,” she concluded, “is not just recognition of an individual’s success, but a celebration of the values we hold dear — justice, service, and leadership — guided by the light of faith.”
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