KUALA LUMPUR: Former Deputy Prime Minister Tun Musa Hitam was awarded the Doctor of Letters by HELP University’s 27th convocation here today.
It was presented by the university's chancellor Datuk Paul Leong.
In his speech after receiving the award, Musa said he considers the award a recognition in his efforts and contribution towards the country.
"As a former Education Minister, all our efforts are in enhancing intelligentsia that has successfully created citizens from the backward’s to middle class," he said.
The success of the increasing middle class is due to the education offered by the government but there is still a lot of challenges.
"We still have a long way to go. We need to strive between quantity and quality. Our teachings should be more meaningful rather than having beautiful buildings," he added.
Musa who was the deputy prime minister from 1981 to 1986 said the education system should be able to tear down any barriers preventing unity in the multi racial and multi ethnic society.
"Malaysia should not be allowed to fail. It is our duty to see diverse society remain intact."
He advised graduates to instill honesty, integrity, tolerance and respect.
The convocation saw 1,262 graduates from various fields of studies receiving their scrolls.