On 28 October, Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology (KLUST) officially appointed Professor Michael Levitt, the 2013 Nobel Prize laureate in Chemistry and a distinguished scientist at Stanford University, as its new Honorary Chancellor.
The appointment ceremony was attended by members of the University community and guests. Prof. Chen Xiaoyun, Chairman of the KLUST Board of Directors, presented Professor Levitt with his official letter of appointment.
During the ceremony, Professor Levitt accepted the appointment and presented Chairman Chen Xiaoyun and KLUST with a personally signed reproduction of his Nobel Prize certificate.
Professor Levitt expressed his strong support for KLUST’s mission, vision and values. He recognised the University’s ambition to become a world-class institution and supported its approach of bringing advanced technologies and expertise from China and other countries to Malaysia.
He also pledged to actively support the University’s development, particularly in research and international collaboration, and expressed his interest in becoming more involved in these areas. He subsequently delivered an address to KLUST’s staff, students and guests, sharing his thoughts on scientific discovery and offering words of encouragement to the University community.
The appointment represents an important milestone in KLUST’s efforts to strengthen its international academic network and research capabilities. Through this partnership, the University will benefit from Professor Levitt’s extensive academic experience, forward-thinking approach to research, and connections with the global scientific community.
KLUST aims to build stronger international academic partnerships, encourage collaboration across different fields of study and create more opportunities for young researchers. The University also plans to continue improving its academic programmes, strengthening its research capabilities and expanding its international partnerships.
Through these efforts, KLUST hopes to contribute more research that advances scientific knowledge and addresses important societal needs, while working towards its ambition of becoming a leading international university.
Professor Michael Levitt’s address
“Good day to all faculty members, staff and students of Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology.
My name is Michael Levitt, and I am the 2013 Nobel Prize laureate in Chemistry. It is a great honour to be appointed Honorary Chancellor of Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology. I would like to extend my warmest greetings to everyone at the University.
Science begins with curiosity.
When we encounter a complex problem and start asking questions such as, “Why does this happen?” and “How can we understand it?”, we take the first steps towards scientific discovery.
Throughout my career, I have focused on developing computational models of proteins and biomolecular systems. What fascinates me is not only the mathematical principles behind these systems, but also the possibilities they offer. With the help of computers, we can observe, predict and explain how life works at the molecular level.
To the younger generation: do not be afraid of difficult questions.
Many major scientific breakthroughs have come from tackling problems that once seemed too complicated, too expensive or too uncertain to pursue.
Stay curious, remain committed to your goals, broaden your perspectives and be open to learning across different disciplines.
Remember that scientific progress does not depend solely on individual talent. It also requires teamwork, careful research, reliable evidence and the courage to test new ideas.
Your University has an important role to play in shaping the future of science. This includes preparing the next generation of researchers, creating an environment where new ideas can grow, and ensuring that research addresses real-world needs.
I look forward to seeing KLUST strengthen its international partnerships, support young researchers, and continue pursuing scientific research that benefits society.
My heartfelt best wishes to everyone.
I wish all students continued success in their studies and research. I wish the faculty and staff many exciting research achievements and meaningful academic collaborations. I also wish Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology continued progress in education, research, and innovation.
Thank you, and I wish you all the very best for the future.”