Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy and International Development and the Global South
from the National University of Malaysia (UKM) on Saturday, October 25. The honor recognizes
Lula’s political career and his work promoting social inclusion, the fight against hunger, and
international cooperation. The honorary doctorate reinforces his ongoing commitment to
social inclusion, education, and cooperation among Global South countries.
Lula Dedicates Honor to the Brazilian People
“This diploma isn’t Lula’s. It belongs to 215 million Brazilians,” said the president
during the ceremony held at the National University of Malaysia.
Lula emphasized that the honor belongs to all Brazilians and reflects collective social effort:
“I receive the title with deep emotion and sincere gratitude. This title is a well-deserved recognition
of the Brazilian people. This diploma doesn’t belong to Lula. It belongs to
215 million Brazilians.”
I receive the title of Doctor Honoris Causa from the National University of Malaysia
not as a point of arrival, but as an incentive to continue fighting for a more just,
sustainable, and supportive world.— Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of the Republic
Global Recognition and Future Synergy
The Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Malaysia, Prof. Dr. Sufian Jusoh,
emphasized that the honor represents international recognition of Lula’s legacy:
“He became the first president of Brazil without a university degree, yet he created the
largest number of public universities in the country’s history.”
Synergy and Academic Exchange
The visit is expected to deepen cultural and academic partnerships, encouraging future
exchange programs between Brazilian and Malaysian institutions.
Over his political career, Lula has received more than 30 honorary doctorates.
He stated that this new recognition serves as motivation to continue fighting for a more just global future.
Lula expressed the hope that Brazilian Portuguese will be heard in Malaysian classrooms and that Malaysian
students and researchers will increasingly participate in Brazilian academic life.
Recognizing Malaysia’s achievements, he highlighted the role of government in reducing poverty and building
a new international order based on cooperation and dialogue.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and ASEAN Relations
During his official visit, Lula met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Malaysia remains one of Brazil’s key partners in Asia, particularly in technology and energy.
Engagement with ASEAN
Malaysia is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
On Sunday (26th), Lula will become the first Brazilian president to participate in an ASEAN Summit,
signaling stronger cooperation and economic engagement between Brazil and Asia.
Source Information
Published on 10/25/2025 07:19 AM • Updated on 10/25/2025 07:27 AM
Social Transformation and Education as Instruments
The honor reaffirms Lula’s belief in education as an instrument of emancipation and reinforces
the principle that politics must be used to reduce inequalities, both within and between nations.
Lula highlighted that universities are spaces where scientific knowledge challenges racism,
colonialism, and misogyny.
Justice and Equality: A Hallmark of Administration
Lula underlined education’s central role in building a fair society. He recalled that expanding access
to higher education has been a defining aspect of his leadership:
“I am proud to be the president who created the most technical and higher education institutions
— even without a university degree — and who opened university doors to the children of working families.”