Additional math is not useless, it is a brain activator – says Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Ridza

By, Farihah Halim

GOMBAK, 17 December 2024: IIUM’s Constitutional Head, Her Royal Highness Tengku Ampuan Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah Binti Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj conferred the prestigious title, Professor Emeritus upon Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mohamed Ridza Wahiddin in the 40th IIUM Convocation at IIUM Gombak on 16 November.

With over 30 years of academic experience, Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Ridza is known for his important work in quantum optics, quantum information processing, and mathematical modelling. His leadership has made a lasting impact on education and research studies.

In his inspiring acceptance speech, the newly conferred Professor Emeritus emphasized the importance of additional mathematics, particularly among Malaysians. He addressed common misconceptions, saying that while many view it as difficult, unnecessary, or irrelevant, additional mathematics is powerful for training the mind.

“Just like muscles, our brain needs to activate billions of neurons to become more active and intelligent,” he explained.

He emphasized that mastering additional mathematics fosters creativity by helping individuals connect ideas and processes, enabling innovative thinking.

Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Ridza drew inspiration from the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), highlighting the Battle of Badr as an example of strategic thinking. He shared how the Prophet’s companions estimated the enemy’s numbers by analyzing the camels slaughtered, emphasizing that creativity and higher thinking, paired with accountability leads to wisdom (hikmah).

He started working at the IIUM in 2001. Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Ridza played a pivotal role in the university’s growth, holding key leadership roles such as Dean of the Research Management Centre, Dean of the Office of Corporate Strategy and Quality Assurance, and Deputy Rector (Research and Innovation). Under his guidance, the IIUM established Malaysia’s first Quantum Cryptography Research Group, positioning the country as a leader in the field.

Professor Emeritus is a lifelong title awarded to retired professors in recognition of their contributions and dedication to the IIUM, thus allowing them to continue contributing to academia.

This recognition highlights his lifelong dedication to advancing education, research, and community service. Beyond his personal achievements, Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Ridza’s legacy is defined by his ability to inspire future generations of scholars and educators. His innovative contributions to mathematics, physics, and computer science will continue to shape academic progress for years to come.

In his closing remarks, Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Ridza expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his colleagues and students, acknowledging their support as the foundation of his achievements. ***