KOTA SAMARAHAN: A mother’s unfulfilled dream of studying overseas has come true with three of her children now pursuing higher education in Japan, New Zealand and Australia.
Satifah Hamdan, a teacher at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Serian, said she had once hoped to further her studies in Japan after completing her Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM), but never had the opportunity.
Today, however, three of her four children are studying overseas, a journey she described as the fulfilment of a long-held dream.
“I wanted to further my studies in Japan but never had the chance. Today my children are pursuing their studies in Japan, New Zealand and Australia.
“As a mother, I constantly pray for their success wherever they are,” she was quoted as saying in a news report by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
Satifah shared her story after her youngest daughter, A’dillah Farhanah Ismail, received an education incentive under the P197 Samarahan Prihatin 2026 programme on Sunday (Aug 2).
A’dillah, 20, is pursuing a Bachelor of Mathematics at the Australian National University in Canberra, while her elder sibling is studying Biology at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. Another sibling is also pursuing studies in Japan.
The programme also recognised Dayangku Siti Nurizrahtul Awang Ahmad Safri, 19, who will pursue a degree in International Business at ISEC Business School in France under a Public Service Department (JPA) scholarship.
“God willing, I will return to Sarawak after completing my studies to contribute to the state’s development.
“I also hope more Sarawakian youths will seize opportunities to study abroad and return home to serve the state,” said Siti.
During the event, 50 students received education incentives to further their studies at public and private higher learning institutions in Malaysia and overseas.
The assistance was presented by Rural and Regional Development Deputy Minister cum Kota Samarahan MP Datuk Rubiah Wang.
