From mixed emotions to enlightening insights
On 6 July 2023, Monash University Malaysia's Staff Forum took on a distinctively poignant atmosphere as it marked the last time Professor Margaret Gardner AC, President and Vice-Chancellor of Monash University, would address the university's staff. Before beginning her address, Professor Gardner expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the presence of distinguished guests, including Dr Megan Clark AC, Deputy Chancellor; Professor Susan Elliott AM, Provost and Senior Vice President; Professor Sharon Pickering, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Senior Vice President (Education); Professor Sarah McDonald, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Student Experience); Bruce Mortimer, Senior Director, Alumni, Stakeholder Engagement and Operations; and Angela Taylor, Alumni Engagement Manager.
Expressing her delight at seeing a large turnout, Professor Gardner acknowledged the 25th Anniversary milestone and the significance of Monash University Malaysia within the broader context of international education. She conveyed her deep appreciation and pride for the staff's remarkable achievements, emphasising their role in shaping the university's future and thanking them for their dedication. Amidst her heartfelt words, Professor Gardner admitted to feeling emotional and struggled to hold back tears, underscoring her deep connection to the university and its profound impact on her career.
The collective admiration and respect for Professor Gardner were evident when, after her speech, the audience rose to their feet, giving her a standing ovation. It was a moving testament to her transformative leadership and the profound impact she had made during her tenure.
Following the heartfelt speech, Professor Dato' Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman, President and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Monash University Malaysia, took the stage to present the highly anticipated 2023 PVC Awards. This prestigious award acknowledges and applauds the outstanding contributions of academic and professional staff at Monash University Malaysia.
In addition to the PVC Awards, a significant milestone was celebrated during the forum — the 25th Anniversary Special Recognition for Long Service to Monash University Malaysia. Professor Gardner herself had the honour of presenting this special recognition to 25 esteemed staff members who had dedicated years to the institution.
As the event drew to a close, Professor Adeeba, with her own emotions kept in check, delivered her closing remarks, expressing gratitude for the remarkable contributions made by Professor Gardner. To celebrate Professor Gardner's invaluable leadership and significant impact on the university, Professor Adeeba presented her with a special gift: a painting depicting a captivating Malay dance, symbolising the vibrant culture and diversity that Monash University Malaysia proudly embraces.
Following the Staff Forum, all staff members were invited to partake in a delightful tea reception. As conversations flowed and congratulations were extended, the tea reception served as a reminder of the vibrant and supportive community within Monash University Malaysia.
Apart from the remarkable moments captured during the Staff Forum, the day was filled with other notable events that added further depth and significance to the overall experience.
Earlier in the day, the highly anticipated reopening of a time capsule, sealed on 14 June 2010 in commemorating the naming of the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, occurred. A sense of excitement and nostalgia filled the air as esteemed faculty members, staff, and distinguished guests gathered to witness the long-awaited opening of the time capsule. Tan Sri Dato' Seri Dr Jeffrey Cheah AO carefully unsealed the time capsule, revealing a treasure trove consisting of a thumb drive and a scroll — memories tucked away for over a decade. The event marked a significant moment of reflection and anticipation for the future.
Later that evening, another significant event took place — the Global Challenge Forum: Empowering Education for Thriving Communities. This forum brought together experts and stakeholders to delve into the critical topic of access to quality education. The panel of experts included Azlina Kamal, UNICEF Education Specialist and Lead; Kelvin Tan, Co-Founder and CEO of Project ID; YB Tuan Syed Saddiq, Muar Parliament Member and MUDA President; and Shahnaz Al-Sadat, Co-Founder and Chairperson of LeapEd Services.
Professor Adeeba delivered the welcome remarks, setting the tone for an engaging and insightful discussion. Professor Susan Elliott AM expertly moderated the forum, ensuring that diverse perspectives were explored. The forum presented an opportunity to identify innovative solutions, increase awareness and advocacy, and ultimately generate recommendations and policy briefs that can drive positive change in the realm of education.
By including these additional highlights, the day's events encompassed a broader spectrum of significance, capturing the unveiling of the past through the time capsule and delving into the critical conversations surrounding education at the Global Challenge Forum. Monash University Malaysia, once again, demonstrated its commitment to preserving its legacy, addressing pertinent issues, and fostering meaningful engagement within its community and beyond.