Shehbaz Sharif Honorary PhD: Sharif Receives Honorary PhD in Leadership and Governance from IIUM

Honorary Degree Awarded in Kuala Lumpur

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been awarded an honorary PhD in Leadership and Governance by the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) during a formal ceremony held in Kuala Lumpur. The prestigious recognition was conferred by Queen Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, who serves as the constitutional head of the university. The event was attended by senior Malaysian officials, academic leaders, diplomats, and members of the Pakistani community.

The university cited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s extensive contributions to public service, education reform, and good governance as the basis for this honor. The award also reflects his longstanding commitment to administrative excellence and efforts to promote socio-economic development in Pakistan.

Recognition of Leadership and Governance

The International Islamic University Malaysia described the honorary degree as a tribute to Shehbaz Sharif’s “visionary leadership” and “consistent pursuit of public welfare.” Under his various administrative roles, he has been credited with introducing innovative governance models, modernizing infrastructure, and prioritizing education and health sectors.

During the ceremony, university officials noted that Shehbaz’s approach to leadership aligns with the Islamic principles of integrity, justice, and accountability—values that the institution seeks to instill in its students. The award symbolizes mutual respect between Pakistan and Malaysia, recognizing shared aspirations for progress, education, and ethical leadership.

Prime Minister’s Address at IIUM

In his address following the ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep gratitude to the Malaysian leadership and the IIUM faculty for the honor. He emphasized that leadership is a sacred trust, guided by honesty, fairness, and responsibility toward the people. He noted that true leadership demands humility and service rather than privilege or power.

The Prime Minister further stated that governance should focus on delivering justice, ensuring transparency, and uplifting the underprivileged. He reiterated his belief that education and ethical leadership are the foundations of sustainable national progress. His remarks were met with applause from the audience, reflecting shared values of accountability and service across both nations.

Strengthening Pakistan–Malaysia Relations

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also highlighted the strong and enduring bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Malaysia, emphasizing that both nations share deep cultural, religious, and educational ties. He expressed hope for expanding academic collaboration, including student exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and faculty partnerships between universities of the two countries.

He noted that the International Islamic University Malaysia serves as a global symbol of Islamic scholarship and unity, playing a vital role in nurturing intellectual cooperation among Muslim-majority countries. Shehbaz Sharif assured that Pakistan remains committed to fostering greater engagement in education, science, and technology with Malaysia.

The ceremony concluded with formal photographs, followed by a brief interaction session between the Prime Minister and IIUM faculty members. The event was widely covered in both Pakistani and Malaysian media, marking a significant moment in the ongoing diplomatic and educational cooperation between the two nations.