KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been conferred an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree in Leadership and Governance by the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) in recognition of his decades-long public service and contributions to nation-building.
The ceremony, held at IIUM’s Kuala Lumpur campus, was graced by the Queen of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, who serves as the university’s Constitutional Head.
Dressed in a ceremonial blue gown, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed his gratitude, calling it a “great privilege and honour” to receive such recognition from “a distinguished seat of learning in the Muslim world.”
“For over four decades, I have humbly served the people of Punjab, and now, as the prime minister of Pakistan, I continue to dedicate myself to the welfare of my people with sincerity and purpose,” he remarked. “Leadership is not a privilege it is a sacred trust, an amanah that must be exercised with honesty, justice, and accountability before Allah.”
He lauded IIUM for promoting a blend of faith, ethics, and modern education, and expressed his desire to see stronger academic collaboration between Pakistani universities and IIUM.
Highlighting the challenges faced by the Muslim world conflict, poverty, and disunity PM Shehbaz urged collective action rooted in moral and religious values. “Whenever Muslims adhered to these principles, they not only prospered but became a source of light for all humanity,” he noted.
Addressing the Queen of Pahang, the prime minister praised Malaysia’s youthful population, stressing that leaders have a responsibility to guide young people “to serve humanity with compassion and commitment.”
During his address, Shehbaz also recited verses by Allama Iqbal, emphasizing unity and shared progress between Pakistan and Malaysia.
In her remarks, Queen Tunku Azizah praised the prime minister’s “vision, discipline, and compassion,” saying his leadership reflected a purpose-driven approach focused on education, healthcare, and opportunity. She highlighted the Punjab Education Endowment Fund as “a legacy that opened the doors of higher learning to thousands who might never have dreamt of a university education.”
She also acknowledged Pakistan’s role as one of IIUM’s founding partners and praised Pakistani students for continuing to enrich the institution. Speaking on global peace, the queen referenced the ongoing crisis in Palestine, urging compassion and harmony “among all mankind.”
Following the ceremony, the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed on X that PM Shehbaz had concluded his three-day visit to Malaysia and departed for Pakistan.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
During his visit, PM Shehbaz and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim signed six key accords aimed at expanding trade and bilateral cooperation. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a forward-looking partnership, with Malaysia announcing plans to import $200 million worth of halal meat from Pakistan a move welcomed by the premier.
A joint statement issued by both countries underscored the long-standing relationship between Pakistan and Malaysia, which dates back to 1957. Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration in defence, healthcare, agriculture, and tourism, while also promoting cultural and academic exchanges.
Malaysia also expressed its intention to expand palm oil exports to Pakistan to meet growing demand. The two leaders further pledged to strengthen cooperation in defence science, technology, and industry through knowledge and technology transfer.
Boosting Economic Cooperation
PM Shehbaz also met with Thomas G. Tsao, co-founder and chair of Malaysian investment firm Gobi Partners. The group expressed strong interest in Pakistan’s growing e-commerce and fintech sectors.
The prime minister welcomed their interest, assuring them of Pakistan’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment. “Mobilising both domestic and international capital is our priority,” he said, emphasizing that fintech, IT, and e-commerce are “the backbone of Pakistan’s national development strategy.”
He further highlighted the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in supporting foreign investors and promoting ease of doing business.
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to welcome global investors in emerging sectors, particularly digital technology and artificial intelligence, noting that the digital economy would play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s future growth.
Shared Global Vision
In their joint statement, both nations reiterated their commitment to strengthening the solidarity of the Muslim world and combating Islamophobia and xenophobia.
They also voiced support for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, condemned the ongoing atrocities in Gaza, and reaffirmed their support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
The visit marked PM Shehbaz’s first official trip to Malaysia since assuming office in 2024 one that underscored Pakistan’s deepening ties with a key Southeast Asian ally and its determination to expand cooperation across multiple fronts.
