UPM Serdang, May 27, 2025 - The Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication (FBMK), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), proudly celebrated its 30th anniversary in a grand event themed "Bahasa Berhemah, Komunikasi Berhikmah" ("Gracious Language, Wise Communication"). The highlight of the celebration was the official opening ceremony graced by the Right Honourable Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, Chief Minister of Selangor, who is also an alumnus of UPM, on 26th May 2025 at Auditorium Za'ba, Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication, UPM.

In his officiating speech, Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari expressed deep appreciation for the invitation and congratulated the faculty for its impressive achievements over the past three decades. He praised FBMK for its role in producing knowledgeable, ethical, and competitive graduates who have gone on to become lecturers, educators, journalists, editors, communication consultants, policymakers, and national leaders.

“FBMK is not just a higher education institution. It is a pillar in shaping a learned, cultured, and competitive society through the disciplines of language, communication, literature, and culture,” said the Chief Minister.

Dato’ Seri Amirudin also emphasized the importance of cultivating a language culture grounded in civility and wisdom, especially in today’s complex digital communication era. He stressed that language is not merely a tool of communication but a reflection of the intellect and soul of a civilization.

The ceremony also paid tribute to the late Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr. Rahim Md. Sail, a respected scholar and former UPM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student and Alumni Affairs). His legacy lives on through his significant contribution to academic development and his book "Extension Education Goes Beyond Agriculture: Capability Building and Knowledge Transfer," published by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka. The book was officially launched during the event, following a book review session earlier that morning.

Another key highlight of the celebration was the symbolic groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Rumah Selangor (Selangor Heritage House), a collaboration between FBMK and the Selangor State Corporation for Malay Customs and Heritage (PADAT), in line with the aspiration of the Sultan of Selangor, UPM's Chancellor. Once completed, the Rumah Selangor will complement the existing traditional Malay houses at FBMK, serving as a unique learning laboratory and cultural heritage site.

UPM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Networking), Prof. Ir. Dr. B.T. Hang Tuah Baharuddin, who delivered the opening remarks, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari for his unwavering support of the faculty and university. He also thanked the organizing committee and strategic partners, including PADAT, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, and the Faculty of Design and Architecture for their invaluable contributions to the success of the event.

Throughout the Pearl Jubilee celebration period, FBMK has lined up various meaningful programs such as the Heritage Run, Pearl Jubilee Charity Dinner, International Symposium on Heritage Communication, and numerous strategic collaborations. These initiatives aim to enhance the faculty’s visibility and reaffirm its commitment to academic excellence, cultural preservation, and societal impact.

In conclusion, the Chief Minister reiterated the Selangor State Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with higher education institutions like UPM in advancing balanced and holistic development in education, culture, and community empowerment. The Pearl Jubilee celebration not only commemorates past achievements but also serves as an inspiration to forge ahead in the spirit of “Berilmu Berbakti”—with” knowledge, we serve.

Date of Input: 27/05/2025 | Updated: 27/05/2025 | amira.rahim