KUCHING: As 2025 comes to a close, people from all walks of life and different age groups are reflecting on the past year, sharing the challenges they faced, the sacrifices they made and the lessons and unexpected positives that emerged along the way.
Sarawak Tribune spoke to several individuals to capture their reflections of what they had to give up, the lessons they gained and the moments of growth or surprising opportunities that shaped both themselves and their communities.
For Mohd Hazhmirudin, 35, a Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) trainer from Sibu, the year was “demanding yet deeply transformative.”
His greatest challenge was raising awareness about mental health while maintaining emotional balance amid rapid professional and personal transitions.
“I had to let go of certain comforts, expectations and relationships that no longer aligned with my growth,” he said.
Despite initial discomfort, the experience strengthened his resilience and taught him the importance of flexibility, positivity, and self-kindness.
Unexpectedly, he also helped others excel in job interviews, boost confidence and overcome anxiety.
Hazhmirudin is particularly proud of his second e-book, ‘Anchoring’, which guides readers to manage emotions through simple triggers.
For Ummu Asiah, 22, a final-year finance student interning at a coffee shop, 2025 was a year of navigating the transition into adult life.
Her biggest challenge was enduring multiple interviews to secure the internship and learning to adapt to a professional work environment.
She also faced a personal loss – her favourite watch – which took weeks to come to terms with.
“Despite the challenges, I learned to face my fears, control my nervousness and step out of my comfort zone,” she said.
A surprising highlight came when her parents gifted her a new car.
“This year took something I truly valued but gave me confidence and maturity in return,” she reflected.
Fifteen-year-old Nur Aleesya Aisyah faced a different set of challenges, balancing school with intensive taekwondo training.
Representing Sarawak at the 2025 Championship, she had less time for rest and friends but the experience taught her perseverance and discipline.
“I discovered that I could go further when I didn’t give up and my perseverance came from the support of my family, especially my father,” she said.
A highlight of the year was the opportunity to compete at the championship, which gave her confidence and direction for the future.
“One thing this year took from me was rest and comfort. One thing it gave me was opportunity, confidence and guidance,” she added.
Meanwhile, for Norarbi Hussain, 43, a teacher and martial arts trainer, 2025 was a year of vision and achievement.
His biggest challenge was opening a community taekwondo gym which required significant time, energy and financial sacrifice.
“Committing to a high vision allows me to nurture a generation that benefits themselves, the community and the legacy of martial arts,” he said.
The gym’s successful opening, supported by the Global Taekwondo Sarawak President, community members and his family, marked a major milestone.
He emphasised the importance of pairing hard work with faith.
“No matter how complete human effort is, ultimate success depends on divine will,” he said.
Reflecting on their experiences, each individual shared a common insight: challenges, sacrifices and unexpected positives can shape personal growth, build resilience and create opportunities that extend beyond oneself.
From stepping out of comfort zones to opening doors for others, 2025 has been a year of lessons learned and foundations laid for a brighter future.
