Prof Dr Mohd Tajuddin Mohd Rasdi delivering his talk to UCSI Mass Communication students, sharing insights on informed writing, critical thinking and responsible public discourse.

KUALA LUMPUR: When it comes to informed, meaningful writing, Prof Dr Mohd Tajuddin Mohd Rasdi is a voice to listen to.

With 25 years of experience, the distinguished UCSI University columnist has written for many of Malaysia’s most respected publications.

True to his craft, his public writing journey began with a focus on architecture. However, the 1998 Reformasi era compelled him to share his views on national, political and social issues.

Since then, the well-regarded political commentator has become known for advocating unity and multiculturalism, arguing that these values are crucial for Malaysia’s progress as a plural society.

With a YouTube channel of more than 46,000 subscribers and a long-standing voice in national discourse, he continues to share his insights with the younger generation.

Speaking to around 300 UCSI Mass Communication students, he offered a candid look at what sets compelling writers apart.

“Write about what you love, even your hobbies,” he said. “But tie them back to life and the issues affecting us all. Ask the bigger questions. Because when society falters, the responsibility doesn’t fall on one person. It falls on all of us.”

He emphasised that aware citizens have a duty to guide the country's growth in a way that benefits everyone, not just a select few.

Central to this responsibility is being well-informed about the issues one writes on.

“To write effectively for the public, you need more than just a degree,” he said. “You must know your topic inside out.”

In today’s digital age, where social media dominates how information is consumed, he cautioned that surface-level knowledge is not enough to build meaningful expertise.

He encouraged students to read widely and deeply, explaining that books provide the depth and context that bite-sized online content cannot offer.

With social media so pervasive, expressing opinions online can trigger strong reactions.

He spoke about the importance of adapting one’s writing style depending on context — whether addressing politics, offering motivation, or delivering straightforward analysis. Versatility, he said, is essential.

Prof Tajuddin’s message reflects UCSI University’s commitment to developing graduates who contribute meaningfully to society through critical thinking, informed engagement and responsible action.

Classified in the world’s top 1% in the QS World University Rankings 2026, UCSI University stands out as one of Asia’s leading private universities, ranked in Asia’s top 30 and eighth in Southeast Asia in the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2026.