Izwan Hasli, Tengku Maimun conferred honorary doctorates by Heriot-Watt
Both were honoured at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia's 2026 convocation in Putrajaya, where 309 graduates marked the end of their studies.
PETALING JAYA – PNB Merdeka Ventures chief executive officer Datuk Ir. Ts (Dr) Izwan Hasli Mohd. Ibrahim has been conferred an honorary Doctor of the University (DUniv) degree by Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (HWUM) in recognition of his leadership in the property development sector.
According to a statement issued, the honour recognises his efforts in championing sustainable development and community-focused urban transformation, with his work said to reflect a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, social impact and the role of private sector leadership in advancing the nation-building agenda.
Also receiving the same recognition was former Chief Justice Tun (Dr) Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, in appreciation of her extraordinary contributions to nation-building, integrity and sustainable progress.
The honours were conferred at the University Convocation 2026 held in Putrajaya recently, where 309 graduates celebrated the completion of their studies.
The ceremony was led by Heriot-Watt University (United Kingdom) Principal and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Richard A. Williams, HWUM Pro-Chancellor Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David and HWUM Deputy Principal and Provost Prof. Mushtak Al-Atabi.
Commenting on the award, Izwan said he was deeply honoured to receive it, adding that throughout his career he had always believed development was fundamentally about improving lives and creating communities that would shape future generations.
"My hope is that our young graduates seize the opportunities before them, keep innovating, and lead with purpose.
"In my view, success is not measured only through personal achievement but, more importantly, through the positive impact we create for communities, industries and ultimately our country," he said. (Quote translated from Malay.)
Prof. Richard, meanwhile, said Heriot-Watt was a university with purpose and that for more than two centuries it had remained firm on a simple principle — that education and research must benefit society.
"We believe education should be accessible, practical, globally connected and transformative.
"Universities matter because they do more than transfer knowledge. They change lives, create opportunities and bring people together across cultures and backgrounds.
"They build the economies of the future and help communities adapt in times of change, especially today," he said.
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