SUZHOU, China, Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Professor Youmin Xi, Executive President of Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), has received an Honorary Fellowship from the University of Liverpool.
The award recognises his success in leading XJTLU – an innovative partnership between the University of Liverpool in the UK and Xi'an Jiaotong University in China – and his significant contributions to improving global higher education. The honour also marks the upcoming 20th anniversary of the joint venture.
The Fellowship was conferred on 9 December during graduation ceremonies at Liverpool, where 2,500 graduates celebrated their achievements.
During his visit, Professor Xi met students on the flagship 2+2 programme, which enables learners to study at both XJTLU and the University of Liverpool. He toured the Liverpool School of Architecture's new extension, and reunited with University of Liverpool colleagues who played an integral role in the establishment of XJTLU, including former Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Drummond Bone, Professor Kelvin Everest, and Professor Michael Fang.
Professor Xi said: "Receiving this Honorary Fellowship is deeply meaningful to me, both personally and professionally. It represents the work we've done at XJTLU and symbolises the enduring partnership and shared vision between our two great institutions.
"Seeing how our graduates are making their mark in the world with confidence and purpose fills me with pride. While in Liverpool, I was also able to reconnect with colleagues who stood with us at the very beginning of XJTLU's journey.
"Celebrating XJTLU's 20th anniversary is a moment to reflect on how far we've come and, more importantly, to look forward to where we're heading. As we enter our third decade, I'm confident that XJTLU will continue to shape the future with wisdom and courage, staying true to our motto of 'Light and Wings'."
University of Liverpool Vice-Chancellor Professor Tim Jones said: "2026 marks 20 years since the foundation of Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University. Under Professor Xi's guidance, XJTLU has grown into an institution with a strong reputation for excellence in both education and research and, as we approach this milestone, we are delighted to recognise his achievements.
"Professor Xi exemplifies distinguished leadership, international distinction, and a strong commitment to the University of Liverpool's mission and reputation. This honour reflects his pivotal role in building a globally respected institution that embodies the mission and ambitions of both universities."
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Professor Youmin Xi honoured with University of Liverpool Fellowship
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- BOH is honoured to have been invited to participate in Khazanah Nasional's Dana Warisan initiative at the iconic Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, one of Malaysia's most significant, historic and architecturally rich landmarks, renowned for its Moorish-inspired design.
The Dana Warisan initiative is part of the larger Warisan KL project which seeks to conserve and rejuvenate national heritage assets by reimagining them for adaptive reuse as inclusive, dynamic and living spaces. Launched by Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Warisan KL unites government agencies, GLCs, GLICs, private partners, and communities to transform heritage buildings into platforms that connect the past with the present, foster civic pride, engage communities - including visitors and tourists - and inspire future generations.
BOH's presence at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad reflects a shared history that dates back to the formative years of Kuala Lumpur. The Russell family, founders of BOH, have been part of Malaya's development since 1890, when John Russell, fondly known as 'Jack', arrived in the Straits Settlements as the Selangor Government Printer. Serving under the British Resident in Selangor, Jack played a key role in documenting Malaya's early governance, infrastructure and social life, at a time when the Government Offices, today known as the Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, stood at the heart of the nation's administrative life.
From the early years, the family actively participated in Malaya's progress, across printing, engineering, construction, mining, agriculture and commerce. This legacy continued on when J.A. Russell, one of Jack's sons, founded BOH Plantations in 1929, pioneering Malaya's first highland tea garden in the Cameron Highlands and laying the foundation for what would become Malaysia's most beloved tea brand.
"Being part of the Warisan KL initiative at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad is deeply meaningful for BOH," said Caroline Russell, Chairman of BOH. "It allows us to celebrate not only our own legacy but also the broader narrative of Malaysia's growth, one shaped by people, places and shared histories."
"Our journey in Malaya began in 1890, at a time when this very building symbolised administration, progress and the shaping of a nation," she added. "To share BOH's story within a landmark that has witnessed Malaysia's transformation is a powerful reminder that heritage is not static. It is an invaluable treasure we carry forward, nurture and pass on with purpose. We hope visitors will see how heritage lives on, not only in historic walls, but in ideas, values and everyday rituals, such as sharing a cup of tea," she reminisced.
Rooted in nearly a century of Malaysian heritage, BOH's history is one of enterprise, resilience and long-term stewardship - values that resonate strongly with Warisan KL's commitment to sustainable nation-building.
As part of this initiative, BOH is presenting curated exhibits recounting its legacy from 1890 to the present, offering visitors an immersive journey through its heritage and participation in Malaysia's development. Visitors can also take home a tangible part of this living legacy through BOH iconic teas, available for purchase at its onsite retail outlet.
"It is our hope that BOH's story can inspire Malaysians to reconnect with the past while looking confidently toward the future," added Caroline.
As BOH approaches a century of tea-making excellence, its participation in this rejuvenation project reaffirms a long-standing commitment to heritage, sustainability and community - brewing a legacy that continues to evolve with the nation. BOH…. Brewing for Tomorrow.
Visitor Information
- Venue: Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, Kuala Lumpur
- Access: BOH Gallery open to the public free of charge
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9.00am – 6.00pm
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BOH Shares its Deep 'Malayan' Roots and Living Legacy at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad through Khazanah's Dana Warisan Initiative
