The Department of Social and Preventive Medicine (SPM), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, proudly congratulates Datuk Professor Dr Awang Bulgiba Awang Mahmud on being conferred the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus during the 65th Universiti Malaya Convocation Ceremony, held on 1 December 2025.
This distinguished honour recognises a lifetime of outstanding contributions to academic medicine, public health, and national development.
Pillar of Leadership at Universiti Malaya
Prof. Awang Bulgiba has played a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of Universiti Malaya:
- As Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) (2012-2015), he laid the foundation for UM’s emergence as Malaysia’s top research university.
- As Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International) (2015-2018), he led academic reforms and global engagement that saw UM rise to #70 in the QS World University Rankings by 2020.
His strategic vision has left a lasting imprint, integrating research impact, academic quality, and international partnerships to enhance UM’s global stature.
A Legacy within the Faculty of Medicine and SPM
Within the Faculty of Medicine, and particularly in the SPM Department, Prof. Awang Bulgiba has been a transformative figure:
- As Deputy Dean (Research) (2009-2012), he was instrumental in expanding the Faculty’s research agenda and output.
- As Head of SPM (2006-2009), he streamlined academic structures and significantly boosted research productivity.
- He was the founding director of the Julius Centre University of Malaya (JCUM), now known as the Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice (CEBP), which remains a national leader in epidemiology, biostatistics, and postgraduate public health training.
- Through sustained mentorship, he has nurtured a generation of public health professionals and scholars while advocating for a research-oriented academic culture within SPM.
National Impact and Public Health Leadership
Beyond Universiti Malaya, Prof. Awang Bulgiba has made far-reaching contributions to Malaysia’s public health landscape:
- Chaired the COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Committee, guiding evidence-based decision-making during the pandemic.
- Contributed to national policy development, notably the National Policy on Science, Technology and Innovation 2021–2030 (NPSTI).
- Authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and served on editorial and scientific advisory boards both nationally and internationally.
Honouring a Legacy, Inspiring the Future
The conferment of Professor Emeritus status is a fitting tribute to Prof. Awang Bulgiba’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, scientific leadership, and public service. His legacy continues to shape the future of public health, both at Universiti Malaya and across Malaysia.
His influence will endure through his scholarship, leadership, and the many lives he has impacted.
Congratulations, Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr Awang Bulgiba Awang Mahmud. The Department of Social and Preventive Medicine salutes your exemplary service and enduring contributions.
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