Manipal: Dr. Ramdas Pai, Chancellor of Manipal University (MU), was conferred the Darjah Mulia Seri Melaka (DMSM) award by the state of Melaka in Malaysia on December 10, 2011 for his contribution to the field of education. He is the second Indian after Shah Rukh Khan to win the award. He will now carry the title of ‘Datuk’.
‘Datuk’ is one of the highest titles that can be awarded to foreigners by the Melaka government and is presented to individuals for their meritorious service to Malaysia and the state of Melaka. Dr. Pai was given a ceremonial sash at a ceremony held in conjunction with the birthday of the Governor of Melaka.
Dr. Pai was instrumental in setting up the Melaka Manipal Medical College (MMMC) based jointly in Melaka and Manipal and the Manipal International University (MIU) in Selangor.
“The title is not for me, it is for the team and what I’ve achieved is a part of it.”, said Dr. Pai, who was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2011. “It is mainly symbolic for me.”