Lam Thye gets UKM honorary doctorate

BANGI: Social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye was yesterday awarded an honorary doctorate (community and unity) by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Institute of Ethnic Studies in conjunction with the university’s 44th convocation.

Lee, who is also a member of the New Straits Times Press’s board of directors, received the award for his contribution and service as an activist, and for promoting unity.

The former Kuala Lumpur member of parliament began his journey as a politician in 1969 and later as an activist in 1990.

He has held several positions in non-governmental organisations, including as vice-chairman of the National Unity Consultative Council, chairman of the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health and vice-chairman of the Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation.

Lee said his desire to see a united Malaysia motivated him to do more for the betterment of the country.

Coming from a poor family, Lee said, he was grateful for his parents’ concern about his achievements and that had made him want to work harder.

“I always ask myself, what can I do more as a Malaysian so that all of us can be proud of our country. I will continue to work for the sake of my country because Malaysia will be my final resting place,” he said.

UKM saw 6,385 students graduating this year. Among them was Bachelor of Arts (History) graduate Nur Izzati Abdul Hadi, 23, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy since birth.

Since she was young, Nur Izzati said, she had trouble studying, especially subjects that involved calculation.

“I failed my Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia Mathematics paper but I love history, which is why I took it for my degree programme. My parents are teachers and they motivated and supported me,” said the Pahang-born graduate.

For Malay Linguistic graduate Mohamad Adli Imran Arzemi, 23, being physically disabled motivated him to work harder.

The Kelantan youth, who was born without a right hand, said he was never once discriminated by his family members or peers.

Adli said the key to success was to believe in oneself.