SUNGAI PETANI: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today urged universities to produce graduates who not only excel academically but are also guided by strong values, ethics and social responsibility.

Speaking during the “Temu Anwar” programme at AIMST University, he addressed students’ concerns on education access, artificial intelligence (AI), leadership and national unity, while stressing the importance of balancing academic excellence with humanity and compassion.

Responding to a question on how young people can become agents of change while rejecting corruption, Anwar said students must first master their chosen fields while remaining sensitive to societal issues.

“Universities must strive for excellence, but excellence alone is not enough. We need excellence with soul,” he said.

Anwar said Malaysia must continue building expertise in emerging fields such as AI, information technology, quantum computing, blockchain and energy transition to remain competitive in the global economy.

He added that universities and academics must continuously adapt to technological developments, particularly in AI and digitalisation.

Drawing on former Harvard University dean Harry Lewis’ book, Excellence Without a Soul, Anwar said academic achievement should be accompanied by humanity, compassion and concern for wider social issues.

He reminded students not to lose sight of challenges outside campus, including poverty, inequality and racial divisions.

On concerns about access to professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and other health sciences courses, Anwar acknowledged the financial burden faced by students from lower- and middle-income families.

He said the government would continue providing support through education financing, targeted assistance and other initiatives, while balancing competing national priorities.

“We will continue to work hard and do our best to help every single student in this country,” he added.

Addressing questions on AI, Anwar highlighted initiatives such as AI for Rakyat and programmes conducted through the National Information Dissemination Centres (Nadi) to expand digital literacy and awareness nationwide.

He said early exposure to AI was crucial to prevent a widening gap between urban and rural communities.

Anwar, however, stressed that technological advancement must be guided by ethics and human values.

“AI is important, but we must ensure that humanity, justice and values remain part of the equation,” he said.

When asked about the qualities required of future leaders, Anwar said young Malaysians should cultivate integrity, humility, sincerity and a lifelong commitment to learning.

He said leadership should be rooted in strong character, knowledge and a genuine desire to serve society.

“Education aims to acquire knowledge to disseminate justice and truth,” he said.

Anwar also expressed optimism about the younger generation, describing their questions as thoughtful and forward-looking.

“I am confident we are on the right track and moving forward because of the young people we have,” he said.