Seri menanti: The proclamation of Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin Tuanku Muhriz as Tunku Panglima Besar of Negeri Sembilan aligns with his active engagement in education, youth development, and community affairs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) Strategic Communications Centre director Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Faizal Kasmani emphasized that Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin, as Pro-Chancellor of USIM since December 2024, has demonstrated a commitment to nurturing holistic students. His participation in community activities, such as the Jaulah Sukarelawan USIM Living Lab 3.0 programme, serves as an inspiration for the university community to engage with society, particularly assisting the homeless and urban poor.
Mohd Faizal highlighted Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin's humility, approachable nature, and concern for community needs, including persons with disabilities, as evident in the collaboration between the IDEAS Autism Centre and USIM. The relationship between the royal institution and the higher education sector has been close, driven by a shared commitment to knowledge development and public welfare.
Nor Hayati Abdul Rahman, former principal of SMK Tunku Ampuan Najihah@Noghori Arts School, described Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin as an education-minded leader who merges academic excellence with artistic talent. As a graduate of the London School of Economics and Political Science and a talented pianist, he encourages students to develop holistically, emphasizing the balance between academics and creativity.
Nor Hayati also noted his interest in music as a universal medium that connects the palace with the public, highlighting his accessibility. Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin frequently plays the piano at public events and is comfortable engaging with school communities during educational programmes.
The recent proclamation by Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, declaring Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin as Tunku Panglima Besar, further underscores his commitment to constitutional restoration and institutional reform in Malaysia. At 44, Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin is also involved in various educational roles, including as Chancellor of UCSI University and President of ICAN College.
He serves as a trustee of the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation and patron of the Negeri Sembilan Schools Arts and Culture Programme, actively advocating for quality education and holistic learning to nurture future leaders.