BY ALEXANDRA LORNA & NATASHA JEE
KUCHING: Two exceptional students at i-CATS University College have proven that perseverance, dedication and self-discipline can turn challenges into success.
Born to fruit-farming parents, Jacky Jong Jun Ming, a Bachelor of Software Engineering graduate, received the Chancellor’s Award during the university’s 27th Convocation Ceremony.
Meanwhile, Mutiara Jacquelina Jupri, a Diploma in Hotel Management graduate, earned the Pro Chancellor’s Award despite learning difficulties.
They received the awards from Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is also the university’s Chancellor.
For Jong, the recognition holds deep meaning, especially considering the challenges faced by his family.
“This award shows that all the effort, staying up late and doing work, did not go to waste. It paid off,” he said when met by reporters after the convocation ceremony at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here yesterday.
Jong shared that despite coming from a lower-income household, his parents always emphasised the importance of education.
Both his parents are papaya farmers who supported him throughout his educational journey.
“Even though we come from a humble background, my parents have always encouraged me to pursue higher education. I am very thankful to them,” he said.
Jong, who is currently working at the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), said academic success was not only about achieving top grades.
Instead, he believes students should focus on building practical and communication skills by being proactive and participating in activities outside the classroom.
“When lecturers teach, listen closely. Complete all assignments and projects because that is the most important part. Practical work matters more than just reading theory,” he advised.
Jacky expressed his gratitude to his lecturers and the Yayasan Sarawak that provided him with financial assistance during his studies, enabling him to pursue higher education despite financial challenges.
Meanwhile, for Mutiara, she faced a different kind of challenge. She is dyslexic, making reading and learning a constant struggle.
“At first, it was very hard. I would train myself to read, learn words I wasn’t familiar with and practise at home after campus,” she said.
Mutiara, a former student of SMK St Luke in Sri Aman, added that she was only able to fully read properly at the age 17.
“At first, it was embarrassing not being able to read or pronounce the words correctly. But I managed to overcome it and I truly felt a sense of relief afterwards,” she said.
Despite these obstacles, she developed effective strategies, including listening to audio materials and creating her own spelling methods, often studying late into the night.
“I am very honoured to receive this award because I never expected it would go to me.
“Some people think this award is impossible to get but nothing is impossible unless you try to move forward in life,” she said.
Mutiara is now pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism at i-CATS University College, aiming to achieve more Dean’s List awards and future recognition.
