Degrees, doctorates do not make one virtuous, says Anwar
The prime minister says some of those involved in high-profile scandals, like 1MDB, were highly educated individuals.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim cautioned students that a college degree or doctoral degree does not guarantee a person's moral character or prevent them from engaging in corrupt behavior. During the 2026 National Student Figure Awards ceremony, he emphasized that undergraduates should not merely focus on academic achievement but also cultivate strong character to avoid abusing their future authority.
Anwar pointed out that many individuals involved in scandals such as 1MDB, Felda, and Tabung Haji were highly educated, with degrees ranging from undergraduate to doctoral level. He stressed that possessing a good education does not inherently make a person virtuous. To counteract this, Anwar advocated for the development of a sense of responsibility towards others' rights and a strong opposition to corruption from a young age.
He also encouraged students to understand pressing issues like poverty, ethnic disparities, and the challenges faced by lower-income groups. Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir and his deputy, Adam Adli, were present during the event.
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- Degrees, doctorates do not make one virtuous, says Anwar freemalaysiatoday.com
