The International Conference on Student Development 2023 [ICoSD2023] was held on September 6, 2023. The conference focus on “Holistic Student Development in Higher Education: Embracing The Future.” It aims to produce international holistic talents capable of contributing as honorable scholars in education and research. As the Director of this remarkable program ICOSD 2023, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and accomplishment. This event has been a tremendous journey of learning, sharing, and envisioning a more sustainable future not only for me but for all committed committee members who tirelessly contributed ideas, efforts, time and energy to ensure the success of this conference. ICOSD2023 was implemented at UTM located in the Perpustakaan Zarith Sofeah UTM.

The implementation of the concept of Malaysia Madani which also touches on the needs of the education aspect is an effort to dignify the people and this country to ensure that knowledge is a priority while also giving birth to a high society with a culture of knowledge. Malaysia Madani is based on the six pillars of sustainability, well-being, creativity, respect, trust and kindness. Madani is targeted to be used as a basis for each core that will be explored in an effort to strengthen the eight needs, namely economy and finance, legislation, institutions, education, community, culture, urban and rural. Thus, the ICoSD 2023 conference is a field of empowerment for students and the parties involved in it.

The objectives of this conference are:

1. To recognize the role, contribution, and achievements of Higher Education Institutions towards empowering students in various aspects.
2. To provide a platform for researchers related to student development to produce, present, and publish their studies to produce quality graduates based on future needs.
3. To generate ideas in empowering students to meet the roles and challenges of higher education institutions, industries, and professional bodies in facing the future.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the organizing committee, the speakers, panelists, presenters, and all participants who have contributed to the success of this conference. Your insights, research, and experiences have enriched our discussions and will undoubtedly influence the way we approach sustainability in the years to come. I would also express my highest gratitude to UTM Deputy Vice Chancellor (Student Affairs) and Bahagian Mahasiswa Holistik, Higher Education Department, Ministry of Higher Education for their support in making this conference a reality.

The theme of ICOSD 2023, “Holistic Student Development in Higher Education: Embracing The Future” has guided our deliberations and conversations toward innovative solutions and transformative strategies. It is my hope that the ideas that have been generated and the connections that have been established will continue to bear fruit long after this conference.

Thanks to all of u for your commitment, your passion, and your active participation in ICOSD 2023. I look forward to crossing paths with you again in the future, as we continue to work towards a better and more sustainable world.