KOTA SAMARAHAN: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) celebrated a moment of pride and inspiration as Dr Urooj Ahmed from Pakistan delivered the valedictory speech on behalf of her fellow graduates at the university’s 29th Convocation Ceremony, symbolising the global spirit and diversity that define UNIMAS.
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) graduate in Marketing from the Faculty of Economics and Business, Dr Urooj’s moving address captured the essence of resilience, gratitude and unity.
Her story not only represented her personal academic journey but also that of her remarkable family, whose achievements drew admiration from across the UNIMAS community.
This year, the Ahmed family made history at UNIMAS with four siblings pursuing higher education at the same institution.
Dr Urooj and her husband, Dr Khalid Hafeez, both received their Doctorate degrees from His Excellency Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, Chancellor of UNIMAS, during the first session of the ceremony here today.
Meanwhile, her sister, Areej Ahmed, also graduated with a Master’s degree from the same faculty and is preparing to begin her PhD journey at UNIMAS, and another sibling, Mannar Ahmed, is currently pursuing a PhD at the university.
This extraordinary family accomplishment, described by UNIMAS as a “testament to dedication and faith in education,” reflects the trust and confidence international students place in the university as a hub for quality learning, research and global opportunity.
In her heartfelt speech, Dr Urooj expressed profound gratitude to UNIMAS for being more than an institution — a place she called “a home away from home.
“Coming to Malaysia, far from my home and family, was one of the biggest decisions of my life.
“Sarawak welcomed me with warmth that turned fear into confidence and uncertainty into belonging.
“I still remember my first week here. Everything was new and unfamiliar. But one simple phrase changed everything: ‘Selamat Datang ke Sarawak’.
“That warmth made me feel safe, supported and truly accepted. From that day on, Sarawak became dekat di hati saya (close to my heart),” she reflected.
She reflected on the demanding journey of completing a PhD, acknowledging the sleepless nights, endless revisions and the sacrifices every graduate endures.
“True success is built on consistency, discipline and belief, even when no one is watching.
“This celebration belongs to all of us, who refused to give up,” she said.
Concluding her address, Dr Urooj reminded fellow graduates to carry the values of curiosity, compassion and courage instilled by UNIMAS into the next chapter of their lives.
“UNIMAS gave us more than a degree; it gave us identity, belonging and courage.
