Heriot-Watt University Malaysia has appointed one of Malaysia’s most recognized sports stars as its new Pro-Chancellor. Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David, former world number one professional squash player, will begin her five-year tenure at the Malaysia campus on Friday, May 17, 2024.
Between 2005 and 2014, the record-breaking athlete earned five British Open titles in addition to eight World Open crowns. She broke both the men’s and women’s records in 2016 when she became the first player to appear in the top 10 squash rankings for 151 consecutive months.
The legendary squash player will serve as Malaysia’s deputy chef de mission for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David, who is regarded by some as the greatest women’s squash player of all time, received an honorary degree from the university in 2022 in recognition of her extraordinary accomplishments.
She also supports education as a means of empowering lives.Her zeal for achievement and her love of learning made her an attractive candidate for the Pro-Chancellor position at the university. On her new role, Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David said, “This is truly an honour and privilege to be appointed as Pro-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia.
To be recognized by the university for my accomplishments and seeing that I can share my experiences to inspire our youth really means a lot to me and I will do my very best to take on this role. Thank you very much Heriot-Watt University for believing in me and I’m very grateful for this opportunity to give back to our future through the university.”
“We extend our warmest welcome to Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David on her appointment as Pro-Chancellor of the Malaysia campus,” said Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University.
Her remarkable life experiences and dedication to improving the lives of others are a great fit with our staff’s and students’ core beliefs. “We are excited about the significant contributions she will make to forming our university’s future and developing the next generation of leaders.”
“I am delighted to welcome Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David as our new Pro-Chancellor,” stated Andrew Sill, Chair of the HWUM Board of Directors. Her unwavering commitment to greatness and her never-ending search for it reflect the values of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia.
We are ready to take our institution to new heights under her inspiring leadership, enhancing our youth’s educational experience and paving the way for a better future for Malaysia. “Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, Provost and CEO of HWUM, explained, “Our university’s principles are strongly impacted by Datuk (Dr.) Nicol Ann David’s
exceptional successes in both athletics and advocacy for education.
Under her guidance, we aim to foster innovation, excellence, and inclusion in our academic community. Together, we will inspire and develop tomorrow’s purpose-driven leaders, having a lasting impact on Malaysia’s educational scene. “Datuk (Dr.) Nicol Ann David will serve as the University of Malaysia’s honorary head in her capacity as pro-chancellor. She will serve as the university’s ceremonial and diplomatic representative, especially when it comes to awarding degrees.
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