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M - - -
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Well, Lim Kok Wing, my dear friend. It's true when you said you have
known me more than 30 years ago. It was true at that time we were try-
ing to help other students who have left school without work. We were
involved in the Malaysian Association for Vocational Training.
And we believed in young people. We wanted to help them in whatever
way we could. At that time, we were just small people, though. There
was not much we could do. But our interest in the young people has
remained to this day.
I am deeply happy you have found your creative talent and your love for
young children. And you have founded, most importantly, Limkokwing
University of Creative Technology.
I believe this is the height of your achievement. And I am sure, you will
do as you have promised - the university will be certainly the centre of
excellence, not just the best in Malaysia but the best in the region and,
hopefully, the best in the world.
When I came here just now I could not help noticing so many things
- -
that made me happy. There are so many young children of different
colours, different heights, different shapes. And all were cheering, clap-
ping, screaming. I said: what a mob here. Indeed, they are very happy
otherwise they won't be screaming, clapping and shouting.
I am very proud that if they are happy it must be the reason that your
university has given them an opportunity to realize their creative talent,
Right from the beginning of its establishment, the university has
been focusing its strategy on the creation of an international edu-
cational institution driven by creativity and innovative thinking. It
succeeded in establishing a learning environment that has attracted
a large number of foreign students.
Today, Limkokwing University has 4,000 students and faculty
members from more than 60 countries.
Now, it is moving to strengthen its global presence by collaborat-
ing wih Malaysia Design & Innovation Centre to build the cam-
pus into an international hub for creativity.
K
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their ability, and perhaps this is an indication that the future for them
will be good and rewarding.
I was taken on a tour of this creative wonderland. There were so many
things that my friend wanted to show me. I saw all of them... the prod-
ucts of creative talent, of creative energy, of our young people. That
include of course, the members of the staff.
We went around. Kok Wing thought I was tired but I was not. When I
am happy I am not tired. Then he said I had to go to his room and to
The Limkokwing University stands out because of its founder's
determination and drive for excellence, and no doubt the love for
his country. The combination of his labour of love and a penchant
for excellence has resulted in a centre of learning that can now be
truly recognised as a national contribution.
Within a short span of time this Malaysian institution has gar-
nered for itself and the country not only a niche for achieving cre-
ative knowledge in all its myriad forms but also filling a need that is
wholesome and timely.
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wait for a while, while you guys here were getting ready. And what he
did for us was to show something and it was a product - yet another cre-
ative talent. Something I never happened to see or to taste. You know
what it was? You'd never guess. Durian coffee!
So it was durian mixed coffee. This is creativity and I wonder whether
he is going to franchise this coffee or not. When I drank it, it was very
nice. And that Professor I met - Awang Had Salleh - was also my friend
for many years. We were studying together at University Malaya. And
he said that perhaps for those who cannot have sugar and cream to go
with their coffee, durian will provide the answer.
I should congratulate the Limkokwing University of Creative
Technology for emphasizing the training of industry-ready people.
The university has taken this concept a step forward through
collaboration with the government-endorsed Malaysia Design &
Innovation Centre to bring industry into the campus. Such co-
operation that effectively connects industry, government and the
academia is essential if Malaysia is to succeed in establishing a
knowledge-based economy.

- -- -
{

So we had coffee that was sweet and with cream. And durian will make
a good mix - very smooth. Thank you for that.
At first, it tasted a little bit bitter and I was wondering what was the bit-
terness. Perhaps he could have added a little bit of Tongkat Ali to it. I
will tell you what will become of me later so that he will know exactly
what to do, whether to patent this durian coffee or not.
Anyway, I am very happy. Thank you for the honour that you have
given me to come here to officiate the opening of your university.
I would not choose this date of 11th October which was chosen by my
secretary, Dato' Thajudeen. He wanted to find a date convenient for me.
Then I did not check until very late when he told me I had an appoint-
The name Lim Kok Wing has long been a synonym for excellence
in design and innovation. I am, therefore, delighted it will now
be borne by the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology.
This new institution will be a major addition to Malaysia's ter-
tiary education sector, strengthening, yet further, the country's
position as a regional centre of educational excellence.

- -- - {
ment with Limkokwing University. I was very happy with that.
But upon reflection, I wish it would be another day but it would be in
the month of Ramadan. Normally, secretaries like to make us work less
but we work just as hard. If you make a change for me I would have cho-
sen 22nd of this month because it's your birthday. Eleven days ahead is
not too early really. On behalf of all your friends, students who are around
here, happy birthday, Kok Wing. Many happy returns of the day.
It's certainly a pleasure for me to be here with you to celebrate the official
opening of the two institutions. I am confident that both the Limkokwing
University and Malaysia Design and Innovation Centre will play a lead-
ing role in developing skilled human resources in the creative fields for
the benefit of Malaysia and the wider world.
The development of skilled human resources is an area of great concern to
me and my government. In fact, human resource development is one of
the four strategic thrusts of the 2005 budget that I recently proposed. The
priority I place on human resource development is predicated on my belief
that people are a country's most valuable asset. It is people who do the
thinking and planning; people who execute and implement; people who
build and develop industries. In short, it is people who advance nations.
Given the crucial role of people in development, it is pivotal that
Malaysia, which seeks to advance to developed nation status within the
next 15 years, makes greater efforts to develop skilled human capital.
Indeed, as the world becomes more competitive and more complex, suc-
cess and prosperity will increasingly go to those who add value in the
global supply chain. Nowadays, "knowledge", "innovation" and "creativ-
ity" have become the new sources of value in an economy, and therefore,
the main drivers of a country's economic growth. Industries and com-
panies that have been developed through creativity and innovation drive
many of the world's most successful economies today.
The Limkokwing University builds upon the philosophy of
'industry within university' of its founder and educator Tan Sri
Lim Kok Wing. The fact that it is now renowned and internation-
ally recognised as an enabling centre for creativity, innovation and
technology speaks volumes for its founder. The university has con-
tributed well in putting Malaysia on the international map as a
centre of educational excellence.
Situated in Cyberjaya with MSC status, Limkokwing has excellent
facilities to complement its internationally recognised educational
and training programmes.

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I strongly believe that in order to face the new realities and compete suc-
cessfully in the new economy, Malaysia must strengthen its capacity in,
and the environment for, innovation and knowledge-creation activities.
I have already outlined elsewhere some of the steps my government is
taking to strengthen the national innovation system, including forging
closer university and academia links, increasing commercialisation of
R & D activities, as well as improving the legal framework to protect
intellectual property rights.
I am pleased to note that some of these measures, particularly the need
For the past 13 years Limkokwing has provided leadership in the
higher education sector by delivering innovative programmes that
enable graduates to gain employment. Innovation in the educa-
tion sector is vital if we are to produce outstanding students for the
future development of Malaysia. Creative and innovative thinking
are resources that every successful student needs.
It pleases me to see a large number of Malaysian and internation-
al graduates from Limkokwing achieve excellence within their
industry.
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to forge closer university-academia links and increasing commercialisa-
tion of research, have resonated with the private sector. I believe that
with the establishment of the Malaysia Design and Innovation Centre,
we have taken another step forward in building our capacity to produce
innovative products and services that will enhance the country's inter-
national competitiveness. The centre is set to play an effective role to
connect industry, academia and government in order to quicken the
pace of development of our creative industries and nurture more
I am very heartened that this kind of industry-in-campus learn-
ing environment has been implemented - for the first time in this
country if not in the world - by Limkokwing University at its new
Cyberjaya campus.
Through collaboration with Malaysia Design & Innovation
Centre, the students will interface with the largest and most suc-
cessful brands in the country. At the same time, industry partners
will be connected directly through the university's database to the
most creative people in the country as well as some of the most
creative and experienced practitioners around the world.

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Malaysian global brands. I am confident that the centre will play a key
role in translating knowledge from various sources into useful products
and services that can be marketed and commercialised.
The measures I outlined and the development of innovation hubs such
as the Malaysia Design and Innovation Centre, no matter how impor-
tant, cannot by themselves create an innovative, creative, knowledge-
driven society. To be truly effective in the long-term, I believe that the
education sector must be strengthened so that it will produce a new gen-
eration of Malaysians who have the appropriate knowledge, skills and
capabilities to take Malaysia forward and up the value-chain.
An education system that emphasizes cognitive and other transferable
skills and builds capabilities in science, innovation and creativity will
ensure that Malaysia's economy continues to leap-frog. More impor-
tantly, a good education system that emphasizes these aspects will ensure
that the persons who graduate from the system are better off. After all,
people who have the right knowledge, skills and capabilities will be more
marketable, able to command better pay, and as they are equipped with
transferable skills, able to move between industries with little cost. This
means that they are more resilient to economic uncertainties.
This is why I use every occasion I can to emphasize to Malaysian stu-
dents that they should use the opportunities that have been provided, to
get a good and sound education. My advice to students has always been
to study hard, study smart, and above all, learn to learn. Students must
understand that in a world characterised by globalisation, rapid change,
and information explosion, what one learns can become obsolete very
quickly. Having the ability to "learn, unlearn, and relearn" quickly and
effectively enables one to master change and to prosper in a global
knowledge-economy.
I thus feel very encouraged to see that Malaysians are beginning to value
higher education more. This can be seen in the sharp increase in
demand for places in institutions of higher learning in Malaysia over the
past few years. In the year 2000, 25 per cent of the 17 to 23 year-old
cohort was enrolled in public and private higher education institutes. In
2003, the figure reached 29 per cent. By 2010, the figure is expected to
reach 40 per cent. By 2010, it is estimated that 600,000 more places in
institutes of higher learning will have to be created to supplement the
existing 1 million places.
In order to meet the growing demand for places in institutes of higher
learning and complement the existing public universities, the govern-
ment has continued to encourage the establishment and growth of pri-
vate institutes of higher learning. In 1986, when I was the Minister of
Education, there were less than 50 private institutes of higher learning,
but today this number has increased more than ten-fold to 539. The
rapid growth of the private education sector has allowed local students
to obtain high quality education in Malaysia without being burdened by
the tremendous financial costs of pursuing equivalent courses abroad.
Foreign students have also found Malaysia to be an attractive alternative
destination for pursuing their tertiary education. Currently, there are as
many as 39,577 foreign students in Malaysia and this number is expect-
ed to grow to 50,000 by 2010. What began as an initiative to cater to
an increasing demand for higher education has in fact become a success
story in its own right.
Encouraged by this accomplishment, the government is seeking to
develop Malaysia into a regional centre of excellence for higher educa-
Limkokwing has a close working relationship with several
Australian universities. This new chapter for Limkokwing will
help to deepen these ties between Australia and Malaysia. With
the launch of the university, Malaysia has signalled again its deep
commitment to high-quality education!
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tion. In order to do this, we must ensure that we do not compromise on
the quality of education that we deliver. My government is fully com-
mitted to ensuring that the education services being offered at all insti-
tutes of higher learning, including the private sector, are of the highest
standard. In the recent budget, I announced tax incentives to encourage
private institutes of higher learning to foster smart partnerships with
other institutions and/or merge together to create strong educational
entities at par with world-renowned universities. We should not spread
our resources too thin; we need to emphasize quality, and move beyond
mere quantity.
Furthermore, I believe the education sector in Malaysia should develop
Tan Sri Lim has always had a strong vision in place. He has
always connected design with wealth creation. He believes in edu-
cating people to understand the potential of design in creating
new realities in our economies. He has always been clear about
what he wants to do here - producing a new generation of gradu-
ates well-equipped for the global environment.
-- -
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-

more collaborative links with reputable foreign universities. This will
add to Malaysia's attractiveness as a regional hub for education. These
links can be realised either through developing more twinning pro-
grammes or by inviting more top-notch foreign universities to set up
branch campuses in Malaysia. Currently, up to 2 billion Ringgit flow
out of the country annually when Malaysian students study abroad.
With more foreign universities setting up base here, the government and
Malaysian parents would not have to bear such high costs in funding
education overseas. More foreigners will also make their way to Malaysia
as it will be much cheaper to study the same course here than in devel-
oped countries. Additionally, there would be a positive spillover effect
Limkokwing has built its reputation on creativity, innovation
and the importance of design. It creates opportunities for stu-
dents to develop originality, initiative, self-confidence, creative
design skills, in fact the skills which make them among the most
employable in Malaysia. Employers, in turn, have access to some
of the most creative and versatile graduates.
-

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when local institutions are exposed to world-class teaching, research, and
management practices.
As a further measure to raise the standard of local higher education, I
have directed the Ministry of Higher Education to develop a system of
ranking Malaysia's institutions of higher learning, both public and pri-
vate. It is hoped that by ranking them, healthy competition between the
institutions would be fostered, thereby motivating them to improve the
quality of teaching and research conducted. I look forward to seeing the
information on ranking of public higher learning institutes becoming
available soon.
In recognition of the diversity in private higher education institutions,
and in order to carry out the ranking exercise more effectively, I would
also like to see private education institutions being graded into appro-
priate categories based on specific and transparent criteria. I have been
told that this could include categories such as universities and universi-
ty colleges; technical colleges; technical training centres; and tuition cen-
tres. This initiative would facilitate the monitoring of the quality and
integrity of such institutions and the approval of courses. Furthermore,
the grading will motivate the institutions to improve the quality of
teaching and research in order to gain promotion to a higher category.
- - --- --- - -
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And I am particularly happy that you are opening the door to partici-
pating students from abroad. Just now, I was delighted to hear the choir
singing, the choir participated by nearly 60 students from 60 countries.
They were not only Malaysians but Africans and Chinese. I don't think
there is such a choir for the United Nations.
I hope that Malaysian students will develop friendship with them and
develop in-depth networking and continue their relationship as friends
working together for the future, especially world peace and better under-
standing.
Once again, I would like to congratulate Limkokwing University of
Creative Technology on the successful establishment of its new campus. It
is my sincere hope that Limkokwing University, along with the Malaysia
Design and Innovation Centre, will work closely with the government to
realise our common objectives of developing a dynamic and talented pool
of graduates to strengthen our human capital, and of promoting Malaysia
as a premier destination for quality education in the world.
On that note, I have great pleasure in declaring open the Limkokwing
University of Creative Technology and the Malaysia Design and
Innovation Centre.
Thank you.
Thank you very much for coming to share this occasion with us. We feel
deeply honoured by your presence.
In particular, we thank the Prime Minister who has just returned from
several trips, for putting aside precious time to be with us. Your presence
has made this occasion even more significant.
We have received numerous inspiring messages from friends at home
and abroad. I thank everyone for their confidence and assurance of con-
tinued support.
30 Years of Friendship
This is a historical moment for us all, my colleagues, my staff, many
have been with me for a long, long time. It marks the beginning of a
new chapter. For me personally, this is a poignant occasion.
It was almost 30 years ago when I first met the Prime Minister. At that
time, he was a Deputy Minister and President of the Malaysian
Vocational Guidance Association. And I was his not very efficient
Treasurer. (He never said it but I knew - he was always talking to me
about this and that)
- -
YB Dato' Dr Haji Shafie now the Minister of Higher Education was
there with us too.
That association was about providing training to empower young peo-
ple to gain a better start in life. Even at that time the Prime Minister was
already very caught up in the welfare and development of young people.
If you think I have done well, it must be due to my early training by a
person who, as we all know, has a heart of gold.
Dato' Seri, I am so proud that you are now our Prime Minister.
Over the years, the Prime Minister has been a constant source of encour-
agement. He has reminded me occasionally to put my knowledge to
Limkokwing is in the forefront of innovative education. Now, in
its strategic collaboration with Malaysia Design and Innovation
Centre at its new campus, Limkokwing enables its students to learn
to work on real-life projects with industry even while they study.
This unique industry-academia partnership will help strengthen the
government's efforts to develop human ability and intellect, and
produce knowledge workers who can rise to meet this century's
challenges.

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good use in helping the country strengthen its competitiveness.
This is one of the things I have been doing. I do hope the Prime
Minister is pleased with what I have done here. I certainly hope he'll see
that I have made some improvement since the time I first served under
him thirty years ago.
Yang Amat Berhormat, I take this opportunity to thank you for the
guidance, support and friendship you have so warmly extended to me
throughout the years that I have known you.
In response to greater market liberalisation, the development of a
knowledgeable, highly skilled and creative workforce is necessary
to enhance the competitiveness and resilience of the Malaysian
economy. In this context, higher learning institutions in Malaysia
assume a major role in developing programmes that are relevant
to the demands and needs of the market.
Congratulations and it is hoped that the achievements of
Limkokwing could serve as an example for other local private
institutions of higher learning.

- - - {
I must also take this opportunity to express our gratitude to our former
Prime Minister, YABhg Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. He has been a
great believer of what we do. He has been an inspiration to everyone of
us. If not for his unwavering support, we would not be where we
are today.
Journey Started 14 Years Ago
The journey to this campus started 14 years ago when I started to put
plans on paper to develop a blueprint for an unconventional college, one
Initiatives to assist the SME's will be incomplete if we do not
undertake necessary efforts to expose the younger generation to
the world of entrepreneurship at an early stage.
In this context, I am delighted that Limkokwing University of
Creative Technology has initiated steps to collaborate with
Malaysia Design & Innovation Centre to conduct practical
research to support entrepreneurial training, incubation of ideas,
brand and marketing development as well as the commercialisa-
tion of products and services. Innovation and creativity in prod-
uct development is the only key to the long-term vitality of
Malaysia's SME's.

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that never existed before in this country. I am not sure if it does any-
where else.
Two years later, in 1992 our pioneer batch of 200 students came on
board. That gave life to the plans, and momentum to the drive that has
brought us here today.
Early last year we were granted university college status. Between 2001
and 2003, we received several Industry Excellence Awards from the
Ministry of International Trade, Ministry of Education and the leader-
ship of various industries. All this while, our students themselves were
breaking records in winning awards.
It does look like we have made some progress, but we are mindful that
this is only the start to a journey that I hope will never end.
No Ordinary School
As you drove up and this campus came into view, you would have
sensed that this was no ordinary school building.
As you walked inside, you would have felt the energy and vibrancy of
the place.
You would have seen our students, all excited by the occasion, all wait-
ing for a celebration.
You would have walked through the Wings Plaza and past the Wings Cafe.
You would have noticed the large murals, the hard-to-miss sculptures
-- - -
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---
and trendy business outlets, which are actually our incubation units.
You are now in a cool and happening campus - to borrow a phrase
from the young ones.
Creativity Celebrated Every Second
We are creating a place where it is a pleasure to learn and where learning
is a pleasure.
As you can see, everything has been meticulously designed and careful-
Limkokwing has grown and developed as an institution, becom-
ing the premier university of innovation and design technology in
Malaysia, renowned for the first-class graduates it produces.
We can say that they are among the most creative and lively students
who have ever come to our campus in Australia, and for this reason
they are destined to succeed. These students win more than their
fair share of prizes, thus demonstrating they have the full range of
skills, which are essential in a modern, international environment.
--

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ly art-directed. Every piece of work is carefully curated. Nothing is
unimportant, so nothing is left to chance.
This is a place where creativity is obvious and celebrated, where creativ-
ity is vigorously applied, demonstrated, learnt and practiced every sec-
ond, every minute, every hour of the day.
What you see and what you hear have been designed to stimulate and
motivate.
The university's pioneering effort in integrating the benefits of
creativity and technology in education has definitely enriched its
learning environment, and given its graduates a head start in their
working life. Its success will give further support and impetus to
the government's efforts to turn Malaysia into an international
hub of excellence in education.
The advantages that Limkokwing students enjoy have now been
reinforced through its collaboration with Malaysia Design &
Innovation Centre which brings industry on to the campus to
help students learn to work while they study.

- - - {
Thousands of Ideas
Here everyday there is a sense of achievement, a sense of accomplish-
ment. Here is a happy, inspiring place. Here is where style and substance
come together.
To be sure, this is a place of learning and researching. It is a place for cre-
ative exploration, conceptual research and productive development;
where new designs are generated and new concepts incubated - all the
time, whether in the classrooms, in the plaza, in the cafes, in the fashion
store, or in the hearts and minds of those who work or study here.
Here, in one place, is a huge multi-disciplinary creative centre.
Here, we produce literally thousands of ideas, thousands of designs,
hundreds of thousands of words, countless hours of multimedia and
interactive content every year. This is a bank full of ideas.
Here, right on campus, we have created real enterprise. The process of
product and brand development of these incubations are left in the hands
of our students. They will learn as they observe, and as they practice they
learn. They will become entrepreneurs without even realizing it themselves!
New Concepts
Here we engage students in pursuits that will create new concepts and
new perspectives that industry is looking for - to innovate its products,
redesign its packaging, rebuild its image, or to introduce new concepts
that will improve efficiency in agro-based industries.
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- - - - -- -
Here we encourage students to challenge the norm, to explore new ways that
will result in new things that will work better, look better and last longer.
Here we encourage and celebrate creativity happily and seriously.
Here we believe that the learning environment must be one that is
inspiring, not stifling. We work to motivate our students to be people
who want to achieve greatness, because excellence is often not good
enough. We work to instil in them a passion to be better than the rest.
Here we have put in place a vision the students can share, and become a
part of.
Collaboration With Industry
Here we work in close collaboration with industry as a research and
intellectual property building arm.
The Malaysia Design & Innovation Centre, established as the profes-
sional arm of the university, serves as the essential bridge that links
design to manufacturing, academia to business, innovators to industry
leaders and R & D to industry.
Through the Innovation Centre, a number of domestic and internation-
al bridges have now been built. These include the Malaysia-Italy Design
Council, the ASEAN Multimedia Institute, the National Creativity &
Innovation Institute and the Malaysian Content Creation Council and
the Designers & Animators Guild. More bridges are being built.
I must pause here to express my gratitude once again to the Prime
Minister for the tremendous support the government has extended to us
in the setting up of the Malaysia Design & Innovation Centre.
Train 200,000 a Year
The Prime Minister will be pleased to know that here we have the abil-
ity to train up to 200,000 adults a year in the use of digital media tech-
nology and applied creativity, with programmes that are designed to
enhance trainee's employability and marketability.
In 5 years time, we will have trained one million people.
We will be very pleased to be given the opportunity to see this pro-
gramme through.
Global - Kaleidoscopic Atmosphere
Today, on this campus, there are some 4,000 students. 40% of them are
Creativity between Italy and Malaysian will be shared at the best,
I am convinced, in the new Malaysia Design and Innovation Centre.
With the Innovation Centre as its strategic partner, Limkokwing
will no doubt be a most exciting and unique education hub.

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foreigners and they have come from 60 countries spread across the
world. Here we have an enriching kaleidoscopic atmosphere where stu-
dents network and learn from each other.
Here the multi-cultural, multi-national influence is inspiring, and mind
expanding. Through interaction, students become more culturally sen-
sitive, more caring, more tolerant and more aware of global issues.
Here you see cross-pollinated creativity that is resulting in an amazing
fusion of ideas and expressions.
Students arrive as Arabs, Asians, Africans, Europeans but they graduate
and leave as global citizens with a wide network of friends.
University to be Proud of
I want to take this opportunity to reassure the Prime Minister that we will
be relentless in our efforts to build a university that he can be proud of.
I thank you all for being here. Your presence has made this occasion an
event we will always remember.
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-
I have been persuaded by my friend, Tan Sri Lim Kok Wing, that I must
come to London to officiate at the opening of the new campus. I asked
him what if I were not able to do that and could not come. He said he
would postpone yet to another day. I have no way of avoiding it except
that I must accept this invitation to come to London to perform this
very important task.
I have known Lim Kok Wing for many years. We were together in the
Malaysian Vocational Association before. That was in the early seventies.
I was the chairman and he was the treasurer. I had to give instructions
and he had to look for the money. The reason was we needed to pro-
mote programmes to provide skills training and employment for the
young people.
Lim Kok Wing has always been interested in young people and has
always been interested in education, particularly in the area of providing
them with skills training. So he has realised his ambition when he set up
the Limkokwing University in Kuala Lumpur and asked me to officiate
at the opening.
I must congratulate him on being very passionate, but I never believed
he would be expanding so quickly, building more and more campuses
- -
overseas, and you seem to be in a real hurry. I don't know why, for a man
who has passion and who is inspired to do something, I think that must
be the reason why you are trying to do so much in a short time.
It was only three years ago when I officiated at the opening of your main
campus. Today, you have campuses abroad and today you have estab-
lished linkages with many universities, including universities in the UK.
I would like to congratulate you. Your success in many ways I can con-
sider as an example of the visualization of creativity and innovation -
your best subjects.
You have done us proud.
Many years ago, under the Colombo Plan, hundreds of Malaysian students
came to the UK to study at various universities. Some had gone to
Australia, some had gone to New Zealand, some had gone to Canada.
We have benefited in many ways from the excellent opportunities for
higher education our students had when they were here. I have always
wondered whether one day students from England would go to
Malaysia to study. Today, because of you, Lim Kok Wing, many stu-
dents from the UK are studying in Malaysia.
I would like to thank you for asking me to once again officiate at the
opening of another campus - this campus in London. What I am par-
ticularly happy is that you have already entered into some kind of agree-
ment, of some understanding or collaboration, with some universities in
the UK, and you wanted me to witness that you are telling me the truth
- not just a dream. That dream has become a reality.
And I would like to say thank you to the British universities that have
responded to Limkokwing's proposal to have this collaboration and I
hope it will be another example, a good example, to other Malaysian
universities to follow. And I am particularly happy that you have decid-
ed to set aside a certain sum of money in a scholarship fund - RM10
million. RM10 million is too small in our exchange rate - in British
pounds and Malaysian Ringgit today.
Anyway, it's a very good gesture and I was particularly touched when I was
told by Lim Kok Wing that the parents of these students who have come
here, to study are moved. They even cried because these parents come
from rural areas. They never dreamt that one day their children would be
studying in England.
I am not saying there are no Malaysian rural students studying in England.
Thousands of them had already come here, Most of them have come
here on government scholarships and not many have come on their own.
But you are one of those who are always giving opportunities to our young
people to study here, not with a government scholarship. It's a private
sector scholarship and I am sure the gesture would go a long way and
the students certainly would appreciate what you have done for them.
Thank you, Lim Kok Wing.
This event is made more significant as it coincides with Malaysia's
Golden Jubilee this year.
Indeed, 50 years after independence, education in Malaysia can be said
to have gone full circle. While we used to send most of our students to
study abroad, and still do so for quite a number, more and more foreign
students are now coming to Malaysia to study. Today, Malaysia is among
the most important providers of international education, together with
other countries like the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
Currently, Malaysia plays host to about 50,000 foreign students from
more than 150 countries. We aspire to become a regional centre of excel-
lence for education and are aiming to double the number of foreign stu-
dents in the country to 100,000 by the year 2010.
Crucial to our success in becoming a regional centre for education is the
role of Malaysia's private sector universities and colleges. The bulk of for-
eign students in Malaysia are enrolled in the private sector universities
and colleges. This is one branch of education where we see dynamism
and innovation.
In order to ensure success, the quality of education that is delivered must
be of the highest standard - conforming to, or even, surpassing, global
standards. We cannot compromise on this as this is the only way to
compete and be among the best in the world.
Three years ago, when I officiated the opening of Limkokwing
University's main campus in Cyberjaya, Malaysia, I had expressed my
hope that this private university would develop into one of the best in
the world.
I am pleased to see that it has made some achievements towards that
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aspiration. Today Limkokwing University is recognized as one of the
leading universities of its kind. In fact, I am told that the university now
has campuses in six countries on three continents, with a total of 16,000
students. It has also built up a collegial network of more than 160 uni-
versities and colleges spread over more than 70 countries.
I view the presence of Limkokwing University in other countries has cre-
ated a positive image for Malaysian education. With its wide network of
partner institutions, Limkokwing University's presence abroad provides
a strong platform to spearhead the globalization of Malaysian education.
The University's international presence plays a major role in securing
recognition abroad for the high quality of Malaysian education.
Therefore I would like to take this opportunity to encourage other
Malaysian universities that have the requisite criteria and are ready to go
international to do so. My government will continue to lend strong sup-
port to such initiatives.
Innovation and creativity are the new value creators in the 21st century.
Increasingly the most innovative individuals and companies are also the
most successful. I believe that this is also true for entire countries. That
is why we in Malaysia are taking firm steps toward strengthening our
capacity for innovation and for knowledge-creation. This includes
among others, forging closer university and industry links, increasing
commercialization of R&D activities, as well as improving the legal
framework for intellectual property rights protection.
As innovation and creativity are embodied in people, my government is
also prioritizing human capital development through improvements in
education and training. This year, my government has launched two
strategic plans to upgrade and strengthen education delivery at the
school and university level, respectively.
Underpinning both plans is the goal of developing world-class human
capital with the appropriate knowledge, skills, attitude and moral fibre
to compete successfully in the global arena.
I am happy to note that the Limkokwing University is well placed to
capitalize on the global demand for quality education, particularly in
subjects related to innovation and creativity. I understand that the uni-
versity specializes in many subjects related to these fields.
Furthermore besides possessing the relevant skills and competencies, I
strongly believe that to succeed in a globalised world, one must also have
a global outlook. Indeed, getting people to think global has been an
important agenda for my country as we continue to drive our national
mission to become a developed country by the year 2020.
In Malaysia, we are very fortunate to have a diverse ethnic population
consisting of Malays, Chinese, Indians and various other indigenous
groups. Our ethnic and cultural diversity forms an ideal basis on which
to think global that is to say, we are well acquainted with and have a
deep appreciation of multi-culturalism. This I believe is an important
asset to succeed in a globalised world.
I am pleased to note that this multi-culturalism is being encouraged at
the Limkokwing University. At the University's main campus in
Cyberjaya, for example, more than half of the student population con-
sists of foreign students. This and other similar examples in Malaysia
provide a strong environment for creating truly world-class human cap-
ital capable of taking the country to even greater heights.
I understand that the Limkokwing University has gone one step further,
and has recently introduced the Global Classroom concept. Under
this concept, not only is cultural diversity encouraged, but students are
also encouraged to learn in different countries en route to completing
their degrees.
Basically it is a learning experience that is especially designed for globally-
focused graduates keen to tackle the challenges of a global marketplace.
I am certain that this kind of exposure would greatly contribute to the
development of confident and accomplished graduates that will be an
asset in any workplace. This is the ultimate goal of Malaysia's education
policy and I am pleased that through efforts such as these we are closer
to achieving our ambitions.
While it is important that Malaysians learn about other cultures and
business practices, we must also take steps to educate others about our
own unique culture and practices. I would therefore like to commend
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the Limkokwing University for establishing a Centre for Malay Studies
here at the London campus of the University. The aim of this centre is
to promote the study and research of Malay culture, arts, customs, her-
itage and language.
In addition, the University has also set up the Think Malaysia Business
Centre to provide information on various issues, including business
and investment opportunities, tourism and education opportunities and
even the Malaysia My Second Home programme. Essentially, the
Think Malaysia centre will serve as a point of contact between
Malaysian business people and potential foreign partners.
I am confident that these two centres will be able to promote greater
awareness of Malaysia among our foreign friends. Therefore, I hope that
these two centres will work closely with existing Malaysian government
agencies here towards providing seamless and high quality information
services to all potential visitors and partners from the United Kingdom
and beyond.
Before I conclude, I would like to once again congratulate the
Limkokwing University on the opening of its London campus. I am
confident that the university will continue to play a leading role in devel-
oping skilled human capital in the creative fields for the benefit of
Malaysia and the rest of the world.
On that note, it is now my great privilege to officially declare the
Limkokwing University, London, open.
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The establishment of a Malaysian institution of higher learning, in the
heart of London, is an outstanding accomplishment that testifies to the
rising standards of Malaysian education.
I applaud this achievement by the Limkokwing University of Creative
Technology. This certainly raises the benchmark of Malaysian education
to a higher level, one that is able to compete with the best of the world.
I fully subscribe to the University's philosophy of merging the best of East
and West in the belief that it will help to create a new generation of glob-
al graduates, skilled, knowledgeable and culture-sensitive, that will work
towards the creation of a more peaceful and safer world than what we
have today.
My congratulations to the University and my well wishes for a most
successful and bright future.

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- - - -
I am glad to note the tremendous endeavours by Limkokwing University at
building its global presence. Indeed, by doing so the University is not only
raising awareness of its own programmes but also of Malaysian education
as a whole. This augurs well for the Government's initiative to internationalise
this sector further.
Malaysia is committed to becoming an international centre for educational
excellence, and aims to host 100,000 international students in our insti-
tutions of higher learning by 2010. Through its efforts, however, Limkokwing
University has underscored the importance of also exporting higher edu-
cation beyond our own shores, as an integral part of promoting our edu-
cational offerings.
I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the University for
setting up a campus in the heart of London. The timing of this accomplish-
ment is made all the more significant given that 2007 marks Malaysia's
50th year of independence.The British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur
has been celebrating this milestone through a theme of 'Malaysia and UK:
Forward Together', and so it is most appropriate that Limkokwing
University has reciprocated by extending this spirit to Britain as well.
I am very encouraged by the efforts of the University and wish all students
and staff and especiallyTan Sri Limkokwing for even greater achievements
and success in the years to come.
Once again, congratulations!
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May I begin by thanking each and everyone for coming to share this
occasion with us, for honouring us with your presence.
In particular, I am grateful to our Prime Minister who has flown in from
New York after attending the UN General Assembly just to be with us.
Yang Amat Berhormat, your presence has made this occasion that much
more meaningful. Your support will inspire us to do what must be done
to ensure a successful Malaysian university here in the U.K.
Right from the start of his administration, the Prime Minister has pro-
moted human capital development as a major thrust of his mission to
drive Malaysia towards the goals of Vision 2020.
To the Prime Minister, building a better Malaysia begins with develop-
ing better Malaysians.
He has introduced programmes to empower Malaysians with compe-
tencies that will enable them to move in tandem with a fast changing,
more challenging world.
He has encouraged the globalisation of Malaysian education so as to be-
nchmark the standards of Malaysian institutions with the best in the world.
- -
The establishment of this university in London owes much to the Prime
Minister's constant encouragement and unstinting support. That he is
here today speaks volume of his support.
The Prime Minister will be pleased to know that we have made some
For more than a decade now, Limkokwing University has been
a key source of human capital to meet Malaysia's needs. Their
graduates are not only qualified for the jobs they take on, but are
also blessed with the creative mindset to cope with the rapidly
changing international environment. Limkokwing's global
expansion is a new and exciting initiative, as the country strives
to al resources.
By moving into the international arena, Limkokwing is also pro-
moting Malaysian creativity and highlighting to the rest of the
world how far Malaysia has come as a knowledge-based econo-
my.
His Excellency Boyd McCleary
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progress since he spoke to encourage us to be among the best in the
world when he came to open our campus in Kuala Lumpur exactly 3
years ago.
Since then we have set up campuses in 6 countries and increased our stu-
dent population to 16,000. These young people have joined us from
more than 130 countries, including the United Kingdom.
Now, we are in Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Beijing, Phnom Penh, Gaborone
and London.
Now, we are Asian, African and European all at once in the way we
think, in the way we see and do things.
We will set up campuses in countries where we can make a difference,
where we can make a contribution.
We have plans to be in 20 more countries within the next 5 years.
We have built up a collegial network of more than 160 universities
spread over 70 countries in support of our Global Classroom concept.
It must be one of the largest university networks in the world.
We receive more than 2 million visitors from more than 150 countries
every month to our website, making it one of the most popular univer-
sity sites in the world.
The Prime Minister will see that in doing what we do, we are not doing
too badly.
The establishment of Limkokwing in London marks a pioneering
endeavour to integrate Asian, African and Western values, traditions,
creativity and technology in education; one that will broaden the cultur-
al and intellectual learning experience of the student, one that will open
minds to new ideas and perceptions.
According to the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, we are
the first Malaysian, first Asian and first Commonwealth country's uni-
versity to establish a University campus in the U.K
We are the first Malaysian, first Asian and first Commonwealth coun-
try's university to deliver Malaysian degrees in the U.K.
And we are the first Malaysian, first Asian and first Commonwealth
As an institute of higher education spanning the globe,
Limkokwing University has played a vital role not only in
preparing students to study abroad but also in enhancing
Malaysia's global reputation as a dynamic and forward-think-
ing country focused on knowledge, creativity and innovation.
We are confident that Limkokwing University will further
enhance and make a tremendous contribution in fostering a
closer United Kingdom-Malaysia relationship.

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country's university to offer double degree programmes in collaboration
with British partner universities.
This augurs well for the strengthening of the bond that exists between
Malaysia and the UK in the field of higher education.
That relationship was built over many, many years; from the time when
Malaysia came under British rule until its independence in 1957 and it
is continuing today. Large numbers of Malaysian students still come to
the UK for their higher education.
The Limkokwing University of Creative Technology is a leading
private university recognised in Malaysia and around the world for
its focus on creativity and innovation. Over 10,000 students from
over 90 countries, including Europe and the UK, have graduated
from Limkokwing University with an international perspective,
both Eastern and Western.
It is this emphasis on relevant and practical innovation and expo-
sure to both Eastern and Western perspectives, for the develop-
ment of a nation's economy that makes the Limkokwing
University especially significant.

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Malaysia, meanwhile, has moved on to become a pioneer and innova-
tor in the area of transnational education. It was the first country to
introduce twinning programmes in collaboration with foreign universi-
ties, many of them British.
It is now one of the world's important education destinations, with
some 50,000 foreign students, from more than 150 countries.
Our journey to London has taken us 16 years. That's how long we have
been established in Kuala Lumpur, where we have created a campus that
many have described as one of the most innovative in the world.
When we designed it, we were seeking to create a learning environment
that was inspiring and empowering; where creativity is actively promot-
ed and celebrated.
Today we stand as the only creativity-driven university in the region. It is
also the most multicultural. 60% of our 8000 students in Kuala Lumpur
are foreigners who have come from more than a hundred countries.
We wanted to create a two-way traffic in education between Asia and
the world. Not one way, with the students heading West, but two-way
with students heading East too.
We believed it was important to reverse the flow because an education
with a Western bias is no longer sufficient in the world today.
In today's reality with Eastern economies such as Japan, China, Korea
and India challenging the Western economies for global dominance,
strictly Western-centric education is no longer sufficient even for people
living in the West.
It was Kipling the writer who wrote in 1889 and I quote, East is East
and West is West and never the twain shall meet.
That observation, in so many ways, remains true today. The East and
the West are poles apart, two vastly different civilizations.
However, regardless of their differences, the East and the West are forev-
er sealed as two sides of the same coin.
Bridging the two sides of the coin is a major reason for Limkokwing
University to be in London.
If you know only one side of the world but not the other, you will spend
your lives knowing only half the story, seeing only half the picture, and
missing out on half the opportunities.
The people in the West must want to know why the East is rising so rap-
idly and how this shift in the balance of economic power is going to
impact on their countries and their future.
To those living in the East, the ways of the West are very important
because this region is home to the world's richest nations and the world's
most innovative economies. These countries dictate whether economies
around the world expand or decline.
The increasing connectivity of economies and the convergence of ways of
life across the world is the clearest result of the globalisation phenomenon.
Our presence in London is part of this advancing globalisation.
And the globalisation of education is a trend that is gaining acceptance
in the UK. There is increasing discussion in this country about the need
for change, for re-inventing universities, re-inventing academics and re-
inventing the graduates.
To some of us, there should not be a one-size-fits-all response to the
provision of education.
That is because the world has many different people who come from
very different cultural backgrounds and whose nations are at many dif-
ferent stages of development. Their needs are different, so the means
must be tailored differently to meet those different needs.
Limkokwing is the most creative University that I have ever come
across and if given a second chance to study fashion, I would defi-
nitely choose Limkokwing University. As Eric Way, I am very
proud to be associated with this University to help all fashion stu-
dents achieve greater heights in their careers.

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The Africans, for instance, are very talented people. They are world-class
in the many areas of human endeavours that they excel in. So why are
African countries among the poorest in the world?
Would it be because the systems left behind by those who colonised
them are unsuitable for their societies, and unable to meet their partic-
ular needs?
Perhaps, our being here, doing what we are doing, we may have helped
a little to open up minds to new perspectives and opportunities.
The Times described our arrival in London and I quote,
a wake-up call for UK universities about the harsh realities of globalisation.
The Guardian referred to our presence in London and I quote, just one
example of many challenges facing British higher education.
That apart, I think our message has been quite well received.
In just six months, students from more than 30 countries have enrolled
to join this campus.
Our London Campus may now be small, but it will play a big role in
our global objective.
London is one of the great learning cities in the world. It is well-known
for its creative vibrancy. It is the most powerful financial centre in the
world and a command centre for the global economy.
It will provide the Western experience that is important to reinforce the
international education which our students will receive.
By reaching out to the world from London, we will help develop human
capital crucial to the transformation of communities and industries in
developing countries.
Because of what we do, Malaysian education has become more widely
recognised.
In doing what we do, we are helping to promote the Malaysian brand
of education around the world.
By strengthening the global profile of Malaysian education, we are playing
our part in bringing more students from more countries to study in Malaysia.
We are very proud that it is a Malaysian University that has become
the first university in Asia and the Commonwealth to establish a
strong presence in London,. This fully endorses the boldness and
foresight of Malaysia and builds our global image as a fast moving
country on track with global development.
Congratulations to Limkokwing University of Creative Technology
on the official opening of its London campus.

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By reaching out to the world at large, we are helping to bring nearer
Malaysia's goal of becoming a major destination for international education.
By reaching out to other developing countries, we are working in sup-
port of our Prime Minister's own vision of Malaysia becoming a major
force in capacity building for the developing world.
The Prime Minister can rest assured that this university will work along-
side him every step of the way until that vision is accomplished.
To conclude, may I once again, express my deepest gratitude to our
Prime Minister and YABhg Datin Seri Jeanne Abdullah for the support
they have always so kindly extended to me. If not for the Prime Minister,
this day simply would not have taken place.
My gratitude also goes to our Foreign Minister, YB Datuk Seri Syed
Hamid Albar and Datin Seri Sharifah Aziah, the Malaysian High
Commissioner in London, the British High Commissioner in Kuala
Lumpur, and the Vice Chancellors of our University partners for their
encouragement and assistance.
To everyone who has come to be with us today, especially those who
have traveled from Kuala Lumpur, Datuk Vinod Sekhar, Datuk Tony
Fernandez and the rest of my Malaysian friends, members of the British
and Malaysian Press, my grateful thanks
This day I shall always remember.
Limkokwing University has never followed the traditional rules in providing education. It breaks norms.
We cannot but admire the inventiveness and sheer audacity of Limkokwing University in taking an idea
that many have dreamed about - The Global Classroom - and turning it into an affordable reality for
people across the world.
Professor Dr Michael Thorne
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As Vice-Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University, I am delighted to have
been asked to speak at this immensely prestigious event on behalf of all
of Limkokwing University's UK partner universities.
Across the world, inspirational university leaders are in very short sup-
ply. From my very first visit to Limkokwing in KL it was clear that at its
helm is an amazing brain, namely that of Professor Tan Sri Limkokwing.
He has inspired change in his university, his own country and in many
other countries. Few university presidents can claim to have done half
that.
We, in the UK partner universities, have been working hard to be part
of Tan Sri's inspirational vision. We are therefore absolutely delighted
that Limkokwing University has now established a campus here in
London. Of course, as part of the grand vision, it must be in one of
London's most beautiful buildings!
We hope that this campus will open up access to greater educational
opportunities for Malaysian students and for students from other coun-
tries to continue their higher education here in the UK.
But this campus will also support our shared vision to transform univer-
sity education and to take that vision of transformation around the
world.
We are all excited by the opportunity to be working so closely with such
an inspirational university as Limkokwing which, in our view, has been
a leading light in Asia for many years.
This is a first for any Malaysian university and a very special occa-
sion for higher education in London.
Under your inspirational leadership Limkokwing University of
Creative Technology has become a world-class institution which
has already achieved many successes and continues with great
ambitions. We are immensely proud to be your partner and look
forward to deepening and strengthening our partnership in the
future to provide students with innovative opportunities in global
education.
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It has achieved so much in so short a time. Already, it has gained inter-
national recognition as a model new university - innovative, distinctive
and excelling at what it does. And I say that, Prime Minister, having per-
sonally written, and spoken so much in the UK about the lead, which
the whole private higher education sector, has given to university educa-
tion in Malaysia, and about your government's inspired approach to
encouraging students from overseas to come and study in your most
delightful country.
By setting up its campus in London, I am confident Limkokwing
University will prompt further change in British educational institutions
as we continue to reinvent ourselves and become more relevant to
today's world.
This is a time of enormous change for universities globally. We are quite
rightly under pressure to deliver the skills that are increasingly demand-
ed by governments and business as countries seek to take on the chal-
lenges and competition created by globalisation. In my view,
Limkokwing University, with its internationally acknowledged experi-
ence in delivering skills-driven programmes, can confidently be expect-
ed to make a strong contribution to the British education sector.
As you know, and as is clear from the branding of the campus in KL -
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where even the lift is in the corporate colour, black - Limkokwing
University has never followed the traditional rules in providing educa-
tion. It breaks norms. It continues to pioneer new ways of delivering and
acquiring knowledge. We cannot but admire the inventiveness and sheer
audacity of Limkokwing University in taking an idea that many have
dreamed about - The Global Classroom - and turning it into an afford-
able reality for people across the world.
On behalf of all your friends at Thames Valley University, I am
delighted to send you our warmest congratulations on this very
special occasion. The opening of your campus in London is
another milestone in the wonderful success story that is
Limkokwing. We look forward to continuing and strengthening
our partnership so that together we can ensure more students
from all around the world obtain the skills and knowledge they
need to become global citizens who use their qualifications for the
benefit of those around them as well as for themselves.
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Students graduating from The Global Classroom will be imbued with
the best of Western and Eastern traditions and philosophies, thus equip-
ping them for future international careers. This will be achieved by
enabling them, as part of their degree programmes to broaden their cul-
tural and intellectual experience by studying and travelling throughout
a network of campuses spread across continents - at the present
moment, three of them.
Limkokwing University and all the British universities in the partner-
ship have many shared values, not least in that we all are determined and
ambitious institutions aiming to make our mark on the world's stage.
We are all in full agreement with the new vision of globalised education
promoted by Tan Sri Lim, who aims to build bridges between the East and
the West. We will begin that task by building on the extensive and excit-
ing collaboration between Malaysia and British educational institutions.
By working together, British and Malaysian institutions will increasing-
ly be able to offer innovative pathways which merge the best of Eastern
and Western education to meet the needs of the world today. We are
jointly going to develop this idea to the full because we believe that is
what we need to do to fulfil the needs of our governments and all our
other stakeholders.
Prime Minister, Limkokwing University's philosophy in wishing to cre-
ate a Global University is not in itself new. What IS new is that
Limkokwing University is making it happen. I therefore believe it is fit-
ting that you have graced this occasion with your presence.
Malaysia is, yet again, leading the world's universities in new directions
and in the a way that I believe will make the world a better place, with
people valuing and understanding difference rather than seeing it as a
threat, never mind the contribution to the global economy.
Thank you.
The University of Bedfordshire is proud and delighted to be asso-
ciated with Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, an
innovative institution with global reach specialising in serving the
creative industries. We congratulate the university on the opening of
its London campus and look forward to consolidating and
extending our partnership with it.We also extend a warm welcome
to its students as they seek to broaden their experience by partici-
pating in higher education in the United Kingdom.
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The Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Patrick Balopi,
Honourable Minister of Education, Mr Jacob Nkate, Other
Honourable Ministers here present, Your Excellency Yahaya Abdul
Jabar, High Commissioner of Malaysia, Your Excellencies, Heads of the
Diplomatic Corps and international organizations, Honourable
Members of Parliament here present, Chairman of the Tertiary
Education Council, Mr Swartland, Mr Omar bin Abdul Rahman,
Representative of the Minister of Higher Education, Malaysia, Tan Sri
Dato' Professor Dr Lim Kok Wing, President of Limkokwing
University, Ladies and Gentlemen:
It is a pleasure for me to join you all this morning, for this official launch
of the Botswana branch of the Limkokwing University of Creative
Technology. We are gathered today not only to open this new institu-
tion's temporary campus, but are also, I believe, opening a new and
exciting chapter in the development of tertiary education in our coun-
try.
Until recently, the burden of providing tertiary education opportunities
has rested almost solely on the shoulders of the Government. This is a
responsibility that we can and shall continue to undertake. But, in car-
- -
President of the Republic of Botswana
- - -
rying this burden, we intend to seek enhanced partnership with private-
sector institutions such as Limkokwing.
Heretofore, the Government has been providing locally based tertiary
education opportunities through Colleges of Education, Institutes of
Health, Sciences, that is, the Institute of Health Sciences, the Botswana
College of Agriculture, the Botswana Accountancy College, and, of
course, the University of Botswana. Altogether, over the past year, a total
of 26,553 students were thus placed in local public institutions, while
another 7,500 were placed in institutions outside Botswana.
The energetic expansionary activities of the University continue to
bring global respect and recognition to Malaysia for the high stan-
dards of its education.
In establishing Gaborone as a regional hub for education, the
University will merge Asian, Western and African cultural diversity
to contribute towards the creation of a new generation of African
graduates with a global mindset. This is significant, because the
development of human capital that is skilled, creative and knowl-
edgeable remains the single most critical building block for
progress.

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These numbers will continue to expand. We shall, for example, soon be
opening a Technical College in Francistown, which will enrol another
1,200 students and student teachers. Plans are also under way to estab-
lish two Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology, one at Oodi and
another at Selibe-Phikwe, that together will enrol an additional 3,600 stu-
dents.
We are also currently progressing - albeit too slowly for my satisfaction
- with the establishment of our second university at Palapye. The
Botswana International University of Science and Technology will ulti-
mately cater for 10,000 students at any one time and I am delighted to
hear from Professor Lim Kok Wing that this institution will be working
collaboratively with the Botswana International University of Science
and Technology, as well as the University of Botswana. For its part, our
existing University of Botswana has been expanded and is now meeting
the needs of 15,000 students.
Taken together, the above efforts are helping us to move towards the still
draft Tertiary Education Policy's commitment to raise access to tertiary
education from the current 7%, among the age group of 18 to 24 to at
least 17% by 2016. This goal, once obtained, will place our country on
par with other leading middle income countries around the world.
Notwithstanding its own efforts, the Government, as I have said, is look-
ing for partners. Simply put, with its many other commitments, the
public sector is no longer in a position to provide all the tertiary educa-
tion opportunities that will be sought in the coming years. It is for this
reason that, in education as elsewhere, we have committed ourselves to
the Public Private Partnership approach, which is already being incorpo-
rated into the second university project.
The forthcoming Tertiary Education Policy also recognises that develop-
ment of tertiary education in this country should be maximized through
the combined efforts of public and private institutions.
For some time now, it has been our policy to welcome private-sector ini-
tiatives in the provision of educational opportunities. Thus the Ministry
I congratulate Limkokwing on the establishment of its new cam-
pus in Gaborone, Botswana which makes it Africa's first universi-
ty to be internationally benchmarked for worldwide recognition.
Limkokwing University continues to raise the benchmark of
Malaysian education to higher levels using its philosophy of merg-
ing the best of East and West to connect with academia, industry,
governments and young people the world over.
I fully subscribe to this philosophy in the belief that it will help to
create a new generation of global graduates, skilled, knowledgeable
and culture-sensitive that will work towards the creation of a more
peaceful and safer world.
K
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of Education has, over the years, welcomed the establishment of private
schools at the pre-school, primary, and secondary levels.
More recently, a total of five private tertiary institutions have been regis-
tered by the Tertiary Education Council, in the process creating over
5,125 additional places for students to study in Botswana.
It was in this context that last year the Ministry, working closely with the
Tertiary Education Council and the private tertiary institutions them-
selves, adopted procedures, and set conditions for the sponsoring of stu-
dents at local private tertiary education institutions.
The development of the local private tertiary education sub-sector is of
great strategic importance for Botswana given that the cost of external
placement, while desirable for the diversity of thinking that it can pro-
vide, is very expensive. Presently, we spend some 280 million pula annu-
ally to place students in South Africa alone.
By sponsoring students to study in qualified local private education
institutions, such as Limkokwing, whose standards have in each case
been vetted by the Tertiary Education Council, we are not only helping
develop local tertiary institutions but also increasing access to tertiary
education for Batswana. Undoubtedly, it is both financially and socially
advantageous to have students, especially at under-graduate level, under-
take their studies locally.
There are additional advantages to increasing the placement of students
in qualified local private institutions. They include the growth and fur-
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ther improvement in the quality of the institutions themselves, as well as
the creation of domestic employment opportunities in what is interna-
tionally recognized as a labour-intensive industry. That is education.
In the process, we are also making significant savings, that can be used
to finance other developments in the country.
It is virtually impossible to overstate the importance of quality tertiary edu-
cation as a prerequisite for any country's ability to successfully compete in
today's increasingly knowledge-based global economy. Private providers
must therefore always be expected to strictly adhere to truly world-class
standards. It was for this reason that, in 1999, the Government established
the Tertiary Education Council. Through the Council, all tertiary institu-
tions, that is to say, both public and private colleges, are required to be reg-
istered and have all their programmes accredited.
This is, incidentally, done separately from the efforts of the Botswana
Training Authority, which is responsible for and empowered to oversee-
ing the quality of advanced vocational training throughout the country.
This country's ongoing initiatives in tertiary education are part of a broad-
er commitment to develop the human and material infrastructure that will
enable our country to progress as a knowledge-based economy. While the
introduction of new technologies is a key factor in our ability to realize this
vision, it will be even more crucial for us to train our youth to be creative,
as well as highly skilled workers; and this is what Professor Lim Kok Wing
assured me he intends to do, as he has just demonstrated.
Recent studies have tended to describe the workers most in-demand in
today's global economy as those individuals who have developed an abil-
ity to be flexible, yet work as a team. They ought to be versatile, innova-
tive and creative, as well as disciplined and highly skilled.
These are the qualities that we understand are being instilled in the future
graduates of this institution. Let me therefore take this opportunity to
congratulate the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology on the
establishment of a campus here in Gaborone, Botswana.
I am, indeed, greatly encouraged by Limkokwing's investment in
Botswana. The pace that you have been establishing yourselves in recent
months is a reminder to all of us of the level of efficiency that we must
reach if we are to keep up in this fast-moving world.
For its part, the Government will remain supportive in ensuring that this
University and others are given the opportunity to help transform
Botswana into an educational hub for our region and our continent.
I have already heard good things about Limkokwing, both here and else-
where. This institution brings with it an international reputation for being
practical trendsetters. We have seen this from the positive example being
set by some of the University's local alumni who are already making their
contributions to our society. We are, therefore, confident of Limkokwing's
continued ability to empower our youths in this new setting.
It is my further understanding that, as a global University, Limkokwing
has the capacity to tap into the intellectual trends, as well as resources,
on three continents.
To those of you who have been selected to build your skills in this
University, I would, therefore, advise you to avail yourselves to its oppor-
tunities to the fullest.
I have heard it said that ordinary leaders direct, great leaders instruct, but
the greatest of leaders inspire. We have just seen an example of how that
is done. Our young people as we came through here are so inspired. It
is impressive. Well, it is said that words are like leaves and where they are
most abundant little fruits of substance reside. Therefore, let me say no
more and conclude by declaring this temporary campus of the
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology in Botswana officially
open.
I thank you all.
I am certain that, by choosing Tan Sri Lim to help develop
Botswana as a hub for education for Africa and beyond, the
Government of Botswana has chosen well. He and his campus in
Malaysia have for years been at the forefront of promoting
Malaysia as a regional centre of excellence for higher education.
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May I begin by thanking each and everyone of you for being with us
this morning.
We are deeply honoured by the presence of His Excellency The
President and members of his Cabinet.
This is indeed a very special occasion - we are here to mark the start of
a new University. Many of us will carry memories of this day as long as
we live.
It is certainly true that the setting up of Limkokwing University in
Botswana marks a particularly high point in my own career. This day
will stay forever as one of great significance in my life.
For this, I must express my gratitude to His Excellency The President. If
not for his encouragement and unwavering support, this day simply
would not have taken place.
The establishment of Limkokwing Botswana also marks a pioneering
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endeavour; a fusion that brings together Asian energy, African creativity
and Western technology.
I will take this opportunity to thank everyone who has assisted us one
way or another, in particular the Minister of Education and officials of
TEC.
I must also thank our Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister for
their encouragement. Our Prime Minister has in fact written a person-
al letter to thank the President. I am very pleased that the letter has
arrived just in time.
Everyone here has been very receptive. No one could have been more
supportive.
The building of this campus might have taken just 3 months, but the
journey to Botswana has taken 16 years. That is how long we have been
established in Kuala Lumpur.
Today, we operate 6 campuses across three continents and have created
a collegial network of 160 universities and colleges across 65 countries.
Today on campus in Kuala Lumpur, we have students from a hundred
countries.
Today on campus here we have 1400 students from 9 countries,
although a vast majority are Batswana.
To ensure more students from the rest of Africa, we have been in con-
tact with every country in Africa. We envisage that students from many
African countries will be here.
Botswana has become a prominent country to many Malaysians in
recent years. Besides the strong bond of friendship that exists between
our two countries, new bonds are being forged by the many Batswana
students sent by the Government to study in Malaysia. There can be no
one more charming than these young Ambassadors for Botswana.
Mr President, you will be pleased to know that the hippos you present-
ed to Malaysia some years ago are doing well, although they have not
reproduced. The weather could have affected their mood or perform-
ance.
Our campus in Kuala Lumpur is currently home to some 400 Batswana
students. Those who have graduated and returned to Botswana are
doing very well in their careers.
I am proud to say that most of our staff on campus here are alumni of
the university.
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In time to come, I anticipate there will be Malaysian and other Asian
students coming to this University in Botswana to further their studies.
To our students here, and at our Malaysian campus, and to all Batswana,
I dedicate this University.
Botswana has much to be proud of. Botswana is one of those rare gems
in Africa - a multi-party democracy built on a solid foundation since
independence in 1966.
Botswana is one of Africa's most progressive and wealthy economies.
Botswana is also one of the continent's most peaceful and stable countries.
Botswana's commitment to education and human resources develop-
ment is second to none in Africa.
Since independence, Botswana has had one of the fastest economic
growth rates in the world. Besides that, the negligible level of foreign
debt testifies to the country's impressive economic governance.
The World Economic Forum rates Botswana as one of the two most
economically competitive nations in Africa.
Without doubt, Botswana is leading the way for most of Africa and for
most of the developing world as well - in economic management, polit-
ical stability and educational development.
This country is a beacon in a troubled continent.
If the rest of the world knows about Botswana, the world will change
the way they see Africa.
In the promotion of Botswana, we have given ourselves the role of a
global connector. Making use of the collegial network we have built, we
shall work to bring the world to Botswana and Botswana to the world.
By designing this University as a creative destination for the developing
world, we bring Botswana to their world.
By bringing the world's latest in creative technology, we will build
human capital essential for the transformation of Botswana into an
innovative nation.
By empowering young Batswana with the knowledge and the skills that
will enable them to effectively drive the process of transformation.We
believe this University can play a significant role and make a meaning-
ful contribution.
Limkokwing Botswana will work closely with the Government to
implement plans that will make this country a centre for education and
innovation.
Limkokwing Botswana will stand side by side with the University of
Botswana, the new Botswana International University of Science &
Technology and other institutions of higher learning to help propel this
country to the goal of Vision 2016.
The establishment of this University is in response to Botswana's Vision.
We have now adopted the Vision as our mission. And this mission that
we have embarked on has received an amazing response from the peo-
ple of Botswana. Some 5,000 students signed up for 1,400 places last
month. We hope to be able to receive the rest during our second intake
in July.
By then, a new facility will be made ready. New faculties will be intro-
duced. The latest in digital technology will be in use. The most advanced
in ICT will be in place.
All that must be done will be done. The new campus will be a high-tech
environment.
It is our plan to enrol 5,000 students each year to reach our target of
15,000 students in three years, which is a crucial number to ensure the
success of our long-term plan for this University. At that level, we will
succeed in retaining 600 million pula in Botswana and create a collec-
tive value that could reach 2.7 billion pula for the economy.
By 2016, our objective is to have 30,000 students at our campus in
Botswana and 150,000 students via satellite campuses set up throughout
Africa, and a million students via on-line delivery to a hundred countries.
By then, we would have become a global delivery centre and Botswana
a global education hub, moving from being a net importer to a net
exporter of education.
To our students, let me say how pleased we are that you have come on board.
In joining us, you are now part of a globalised University. You are now
part of a student community of more than a hundred countries.
You will learn new skills in the use of new technology which in turn will
empower you with new knowledge.
In the course of learning, you will empower yourself with the latest in dig-
ital visualization and multimedia publication, in design innovation and
creativity in broadcasting and television. You will empower yourself to be
the most dynamic, enterprising young people this country has ever seen.
You will discover that you have more creative talents than you have ever
imagined. You will be the generation that will change the way people
think, and bring about changes that will set the pace of progress in this
country. You will become a driving force of this country's transformation.
You will learn that the future has always been about making possible the
impossible, that the future has always been driven by the power of cre-
ativity, and by people with the drive to go where no one has been and
do things that no one has done.
Those who choose not do ordinary things are always the ones to achieve
extraordinary success. This is my advice to you, whenever challenged, no
matter how difficult and how much it has taken out of you, stay on the
track. Stay the course. Stay on till it is done. Stay on and it will be done.
Nothing will make me happier than to see every student of this
University succeed the way you want to succeed; to see you become the
people other people would want to emulate; to see you sparkle like the
precious stone that this country is famous for.
On that note, and on behalf of the faculty and all our students, may I
thank you once again for honouring us with your presence.
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What an excitement. This is not what I anticipated.
Your Excellency, the President of Botswana, Festus Mogae, Honorable
Speaker of the National Assembly Patrick Balopi, Tan Sri Dato'
Professor Dr Lim Kok Wing, the Honorable Minister for Education,
Jacob Nkate, Deputy Secretary General, Mr Omar bin Abdul Rahman,
Cabinet Ministers here present, Your Excellencies, Members of the
Diplomatic Corps, Honourable Members of Parliament, Distinguished
Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen and my fellow students.
My task is very simple. After listening to such inspired speeches, I am
not going to bore you. I think I am going to be very, very brief because
I don't want to dampen all your inspiration we have received from the
two speeches.
First of all, let me start by thanking our President, His Excellency Festus
Mogae, for agreeing to grace this occasion and perform the official open-
ing of Limkokwing University Botswana. It is indeed, Sir, a unique
opportunity for our country to be able to open the first truly private uni-
versity in Botswana.
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The establishment of this university has come at a significant time for
Botswana. This year we are entering the second half stage of our Vision
2016. The first half saw rapid strides in many sectors of socio-econom-
ic development, for which you, Sir, have rightly been honoured by the
international financial community.
Limkokwing University Botswana will contribute greatly to the founda-
tion of our strategy to create a critical mass of innovative human capital
that will take our country to the cherished goal of a Productive,
Prosperous and Innovative Nation by 2016.
Secondly, I would like to express our gratitude to the Honourable
Minister of Education, Mr Jacob Nkate, for not only joining us on this
memorable occasion, but also for performing the launch of
Limkokwing Botswana Website. We in the Tertiary Education Council
value your support, Sir, in our commitment to promote a tertiary edu-
cation of international standards that is globally competitive.
Sir, we have developed rigorous regulatory regimes to ensure that our
registration process is thorough and that our post-registration monitor-
ing is taken very seriously. I am pleased to inform this gathering that 24
institutions have been registered, seven of which are private, including
Limkokwing University Botswana.
Thirdly, I would like to thank the Founder and President of
Limkokwing University Botswana, Tan Sri Dato' Professor Dr Lim Kok
Wing, for taking the major decision to invest in this massive institution,
thereby assisting us in our attempts to expand opportunities for learning
and the diversification of skills needed by the country.
Your speech, Sir, inspired us, gave us hope. It made us feel that we took
the right decision in registering this institution. It is like a dream but
most of us believe in dreams.
In addition, I also wish to thank and congratulate Tan Sri Lim, the
Limkokwing University and its staff for their dedication and impressive
organizational skills in bringing this university into reality so quickly. In
just a few months, you have achieved a very strong presence, as you have
just said, with an enrolment of 1,400 students.
The tremendous response by Batswana students clearly proves that
Limkokwing University is a highly respected brand in the education
field in both Malaysia and Botswana.
We, as the Council, recognize that knowledge, innovation and creativi-
ty have become the new sources of value in an economy, and therefore
the main drivers of the country's socio-economic growth. Industries and
companies that have been developed through creativity and innovation
drive many of the world's most successful economies today.
We look forward to cooperating with you, as well as with all other pri-
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vate institutions, to build the intellectual infrastructure that will spur cre-
ativity and innovation among Batswana.
We believe that people are at the heart of development, at the same
time its architects and its beneficiaries.
Before I conclude, I would like to thank the MCs - the two of you - for
really running this thing wonderfully. If indeed you are the product of
this institution this is what we are looking forward to.
May I also take this opportunity to thank the choir. How wonderful
they are... what a choir. I hope you have spare CDs. You know, we are
going to queue up for your CDs. Thank you very, very much.
In conclusion, I would like to wish Tan Sri Lim and his staff every suc-
cess in this endeavour. Your success will become Botswana's success.
And once again, I thank Your Excellency, the President, and the
Honourable Minister of Education, for gracing this occasion, for bless-
ing this occasion.
I thank you all.