Prime Minister Anwar calls on Malaysia's Gen Z to prioritize service over grades

Speaking at the National Student Icon Award 2026 held at the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim appealed to Generation Z Malaysians to cultivate awareness, a service mindset, and a refusal to engage in misconduct. He argued that academic success alone is insufficient, pointing to the 1MDB, Felda and Tabung Haji scandals as examples where well-educated individuals participated in corruption. Anwar stressed that the younger generation should be judged not just by grades but by their willingness to enact meaningful change, urging student leaders to embody determination, a fighting spirit, and a strong moral compass grounded in faith and identity.

He warned that if university education fails to instill a sense of duty to protect the people, the broader system remains vulnerable. Higher Education Minister Zambry Abd Kadir was present at the ceremony.