KOTA SAMARAHAN: At Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), one Pakistani family stands as a living example that the love for learning can indeed be passed from one generation to the next.
What began with a father’s pursuit of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UNIMAS has now become a shared legacy, with his three children following the same academic path under the same university roof.
For the family, UNIMAS is more than a place of study — it has become a second home where dreams, dedication and knowledge intertwine.
The youngest in the family, Areej Ahmed, 22, recently completed her Master’s degree by research at the Faculty of Economics and Business and was among the proud recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Award, a recognition celebrating exceptional academic excellence.
“My father, brother, and sister are all pursuing their PhDs at UNIMAS and I’ll be the last one in the family to follow in their footsteps.
“I’ve already received an offer to begin my PhD, and I’m excited to continue this family legacy,” said Areej with a bright smile when met at Arena Gemilang, Dewan Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra (DeTAR PUTRA), UNIMAS, yesterday.
Balancing research and leadership
For Areej, her years at UNIMAS were not just about academic pursuit, but also about personal transformation.
Alongside her research, she served as a UNIMAS International Student Ambassador, representing the university while supporting new international students — a dual responsibility that came with unique challenges.
“It was both exciting and challenging. Managing my research while serving as an ambassador taught me valuable lessons in time management, leadership and resilience.
“With the support of my family, supervisors and faculty, I managed to overcome the challenges and grow tremendously,” she said.
Education as a family tradition
Coming from a family that places education at the heart of its values, Areej credits her parents and siblings as her greatest source of inspiration.
“In our family, earning a PhD is seen as the foundation of success. Their encouragement means everything to me.
“I always tell other international students to choose UNIMAS because the university truly supports and empowers its students,” she shared gratefully.
Words of wisdom for fellow students
Juggling multiple commitments was never easy, yet Areej views every challenge as an opportunity to grow.
“Always make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.
“Challenges will appear but it’s through those challenges that you learn who you really are and how much you’re capable of,” she said.
UNIMAS: A growing global destination
Areej’s story reflects the nurturing academic environment that UNIMAS continues to build — one that supports students’ growth both academically and personally.
With its strong global research reputation and holistic learning ecosystem, UNIMAS remains a top choice not only for Malaysian students but also for those from around the world who aspire to pursue their PhDs in a dynamic, inclusive and inspiring campus environment.
The inspiring journey of this four-member family from Pakistan stands as a testament that true success is not just about earning degrees but about the courage, gratitude and perseverance carried along the way.
