In the 2025 New Year Address, I introduced the concept of the Mahasiswa IDAMAN (Ideal Students) — a vision of students who are the choice of industry, the dream of society, and the hope of the nation.

To support this vision, the Office of Student and Alumni Affairs (HEPA) outlined six key traits in shaping the Mahasiswa Idaman. The word shape is deliberately used, reflecting the effort to mould and polish something of high value such as students. Shaping students is just like refining diamonds.

The six traits are:

1. Intellectual and scholarly, embracing a culture of knowledge.
2. Service-oriented, contributing meaningfully to the nation and society.
3. Peaceful and environmentally conscious, valuing well-being and sustainability.
4. Independent and self-reliant, developing personal potential.
5. A future distinguished alumnus, with strong ties to their alma mater.
6. Rooted in national identity, while aspiring to be global citizens.

The Mahasiswa Idaman are thinkers, open to ideas and critical in thought. Amendments to the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU), which grant greater freedom and responsibility, should be a catalyst for intellectual growth. Freedom of speech and political engagement must be exercised with wisdom, shared values, and informed perspectives.

Such students contribute more than they receive. Volunteerism, particularly through community service, helps students apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. Active engagement with society strengthens empathy and a sense of responsibility.

Student well-being is also a priority. At Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), the Student Well-being Index (IKP) helps identify key issues—such as mental health and financial stress—allowing timely interventions.

Environmental values should be embedded into campus life through ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. Students can play a key role in advocating sustainability and raising awareness.

The Mahasiswa Idaman are self-driven, resilient, and prepared for the demands of the modern workforce. Entrepreneurial thinking and career readiness are essential to ensure they thrive independently after graduation.

These students also represent the future alumni who will give back to their institutions. Campus experiences lay the foundation for future contributions in leadership, entrepreneurship, culture, and sports.

Lastly, Mahasiswa Idaman carry strong national values and identity. They may aim to succeed globally, but remain grounded in their Malaysian roots. This mirrors the national aspiration of “reaching for the skies while remaining rooted to the earth.”

Through sports, culture, and heritage, students can develop patriotism and pride in their own traditions.

This holistic development of students is key to building a sustainable and values-driven Malaysia MADANI.