The spirit of excellence and camaraderie shone brightly at the RUMC Class of 2025 Conferring Ceremony, held on 15 June 2025 at the Grand Ballroom of the Eastern & Oriental, Penang. On this proud occasion, 98 graduates received their MB BCh BAO degree, conferred by the National University of Ireland (NUI) – marking the culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and dedication.

This year’s celebration was made even more memorable with the presentation of the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Professions Education (PgDipHE), awarded by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) to eight recipients, each committed to advancing the quality of medical teaching and learning. 

Among the highlights of the day was the outstanding achievement of Dr Jarren Lu Yi Sheng, who received the President’s Award and swept first prizes in Medicine, Public Health, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Family Medicine, Ophthalmology, and Radiology. Dr Khaw Seng Pei was honoured with the Dean’s Award alongside securing first place in Surgery.

Other distinguished prize winners included:

  • Dr. Ong Yung Her (Paediatrics)
  • Dr. Riaz Jiffry Noorul Haq (Psychiatry)
  • Dr. Martin Kueh Tze Wah (Forensic and Legal Medicine)
  • Dr. Azra binti Baharin (Otolaryngology)
  • Dr. Melinda Heng Rou Yen (Emergency Medicine)

In his heartfelt valedictory speech, Dr Jarren Lu reflected on the bonds forged, the countless study nights and the invaluable clinical experiences gained at RUMC.

“This ceremony marks not just the end of our studies, but the beginning of our call to serve. I am deeply grateful to my family, who never wavered in their support, and to our dedicated faculty at RCSI, UCD and RUMC who guided us through every step of our training.”

The ceremony also honoured Dato’ Dr Godfrey Geh, a founding member of RUMC and instrumental in the establishment of Penang Medical College in 1996. In recognition of his enduring contributions to medical education, he was awarded the Honorary Degree of Medicine by the National University of Ireland. His legacy continues to inspire generations of RUMC doctors. 

As the Class of 2025 embarks on their new journeys, they join the vibrant global RUMC alumni community, carrying forward the values of compassion, excellence and integrity that defined our university. Their achievements stand as a proud testament to the legacy of the future of RUMC.