Two women leaders in Malaysian higher education were recently honoured for their significant contributions to advancing student development and academic excellence at the World Women Economic and Business Summit 2026, held by the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific.
Hemalatha Murugiah, chief executive of INTI International College Penang, received the World Women CEO Icon Leadership Award, while Dr. Jane Lim See Yin, chief executive of INTI International College Subang and vice president of academic support and partnership at INTI International University & Colleges, was presented with the World Outstanding Women in Education Excellence Award.
Hemalatha’s leadership focuses on fostering institutional growth, forging strategic industry partnerships, and expanding entrepreneurship opportunities for students. Under her guidance, INTI International College Penang has enhanced collaborations with industry players and developed a startup incubator to help students transform innovative concepts into market-ready ventures. The college has also actively promoted the participation of women in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), entrepreneurship, and leadership roles. Reflecting her commitment to gender inclusivity, women constitute more than half of the campus leadership team at INTI Penang.
In a statement issued in July, Hemalatha emphasized that leadership should create lasting value through talent development, organisational strengthening, and opening opportunities for future generations. She highlighted the unique contributions women bring to leadership positions, including empathy, resilience, emotional intelligence, and diverse perspectives, which enhance decision-making processes. Hemalatha stressed that the focus should be on ensuring capable women are granted equal chances to lead rather than simply increasing their numbers.
Dr. Jane Lim brings nearly 30 years of experience in education, with a particular focus on student empowerment. Her approach goes beyond academic achievements to include building confidence, resilience, and self-awareness in students. She recounted the story of a former student who initially lacked confidence and was burdened by family expectations but later succeeded in securing a senior management role in Malaysia’s financial sector. Dr. Lim attributed his transformation to the support and belief he received during a critical period, underscoring her view that the true purpose of education lies in helping individuals realise inner potential.
Looking toward the future, both leaders highlighted the need for higher education institutions to remain closely aligned with the evolving demands of industry and technology. Hemalatha stressed the importance of integrating industry connections into education to prepare graduates for emerging fields shaped by artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and high-value sectors. Dr. Lim noted that education must extend beyond exams to nurture critical thinking, effective communication, and meaningful societal contributions. She identified qualities such as confidence, curiosity, resilience, and adaptability as essential for graduates navigating a rapidly changing workforce.
Dr. Lim underscored that awards are not the ultimate goal for educators; rather, the greatest achievement is witnessing former students become confident professionals, responsible leaders, and conscientious individuals—an enduring impact she regards as the highest aspiration in education.