Heriot-Watt University provost emeritus awarded OBE
PUTRAJAYA: H e r i o t - Wa t t University provost emeritus Prof Robert John McArthur Craik has been awarded the OBE as revealed on June 9 in Queen Elizabeth’s Birthday Honours list.
The title ‘Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire’ is given by the Queen to an individual for a major local role in any public sector.
Craik has been awarded this honour for services to higher education in Malaysia.
The investiture will take place at Buckingham Palace this summer.
“Professor Craik’s award is recognition of his work in developing a state- of- art HeriotWatt University campus in Putrajaya and offering students access to world- class British education and research here in Malaysia,” said British High Commissioner to Malaysia Vicki Treadell in a press statement.
“The campus is an example of our ongoing Education is GREAT campaign, which reinforces the UK- Malaysia partnership in education, and the broader relationship between both countries.”
Craik recently returned to Heriot-Watt campus in Edinburgh, Scotland, after spending five years in Malaysia.
Prior to taking on this role, he was the university’s deputy principal learning and teaching.
“I’m delighted to accept the OBE from her Majesty the Queen for my work in establishing a new university campus in Malaysia.
“When I first moved to Malaysia in 2012, we had nothing. I had a budget, a large project team, but no students; no staff, no office, but a lot of ambition.
“Now we have a fully established campus in a custom- built building, a full complement of staff, 2,000 students and a vibrant academic community.
“Personally, that was the most challenging role I’ve had in my career, but also the most rewarding.”
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia chief operating officer Janice Yew worked alongside Craik to establish the campus.
“Bob is a humble man who came to Malaysia and embraced the country with open arms. He invested a lot of time learning about the differences between Malaysia and the UK.
“He loved the country and he was frequently seen in his batik shirt eating his favourite curry laksa.
“Malaysia campus is so proud of this honour and we celebrate this success with him,” said Yew.
Craik also created a lasting impression among Malaysian students studying at the Putrajaya campus.
BSc Actuarial Science final year student Naveena James, who was also part of the university’s pioneer batch of foundation students said Craik was more than just provost.
“[ He is] a learned man that may come across as intimidating to those who do not know him, but is in reality a very humble person the students loved chatting with.
“He has always been more than an academic and constantly reminded students to learn as much as possible at university but to also have fun.
“On behalf of Heriot-Watt students we are happy that Bob is receiving this OBE and thank him for all his support,” she said.