Published:
One of Malaysia’s most celebrated sports icons has been named the new Pro-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia.
Former world number one professional squash player, Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David will begin her five-year appointment at the Malaysia campus on Friday 17 May 2024.
The record-breaking athlete won eight World Open titles between 2005 and 2014 as well as the British Open title five times. In 2016, she reached her 151st successive month in the top 10 squash rankings, breaking the record in both men’s and women’s categories. The squash legend has also been announced as Malaysia’s Deputy Chef De Mission for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Considered by some to be the greatest women's squash player of all time, Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David’s exceptional achievements were recognised by the University in 2022 when she was presented with an Honorary Degree for her contribution to sport and her support of empowering lives through education.
It was her passion for education and drive for success that led the University to invite her to the role of Pro-Chancellor.
Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University said: “Today, we extend our warmest welcome to Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David on her appointment as Pro-Chancellor of the Malaysia campus. Her inspirational personal achievements and passion for enriching the lives of others resonate with our values across our staff and student community.
“We look forward to the invaluable contributions she will make in shaping the future of our University and in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow."
HWUM Chair, Board of Directors Andrew Sill, said: "I am thrilled to welcome Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David as our new Pro-Chancellor. Her unparalleled dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence mirror the ethos of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia. With her visionary leadership, we are poised to elevate our institution to greater heights, enriching the academic journey of our youth and shaping a brighter future for Malaysia."
HWUM Provost and Chief Executive Officer Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, commented: "Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David’s extraordinary accomplishments both in sports and advocacy for education resonate deeply with our university's values. With her leadership, we are poised to embark on a transformative journey, fostering innovation, excellence, and inclusivity within our academic community. Together, we will inspire and empower the purpose-driven leaders of tomorrow, leaving an indelible mark on Malaysia's educational landscape."
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 recognised 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.”
As Pro-Chancellor, Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David will be the honorary Head of the University in Malaysia. She will represent the University in a ceremonial and ambassadorial capacity, including in the conferment of degrees.