KOTA SAMARAHAN (Sept 17): The 102nd convocation of Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak began at Jubilee Hall today, with 522 graduates receiving their scrolls on the first day of the two-day ceremony.
Among them was 48-year-old Siti Asfajarina Salleh, whose achievement proved that age is no barrier to academic success.
An administrative assistant at Yayasan Sarawak, Siti Asfajarina completed her Bachelor of Science in Administrative Science with a CGPA of 3.28 after eight semesters, earning a place on the Dean’s List in her fourth semester.
“Inspired by friends who had already obtained their degrees, I wanted to improve myself personally and professionally.
“Achieving this has been a lifelong dream, and I also wanted to fulfil the hopes of my late parents,” she told reporters after the ceremony.
Balancing work, family, and studies was her biggest challenge, but she credited her husband and children for their constant support.
“My husband and children supported me throughout, giving me the space I needed to study and sit for exams. With their encouragement, I focused on my goal,” she said.
“Age is not important – what matters is the willingness to learn. Don’t be afraid to pursue further education, no matter your age or circumstances. With discipline, prayer and a supportive environment, success is possible,” she added.
For her, the milestone also represents a sentimental value.
“As an alumna from my diploma days and now a degree holder, UiTM is close to my heart. I hope my journey inspires others to believe it is never too late to learn,” she said.
UiTM Sarawak’s convocation this year honours 1,048 graduates over two days, including 499 bachelor’s degree holders and 549 diploma recipients.
Sixty-five will also receive the Vice Chancellor’s Award for outstanding achievement.
The ceremony was officiated by UiTM pro-chancellor Dato Prof Emeritus Dr Hassan Said.
Also present were UiTM Sarawak rector Prof Dr Firdaus Abdullah, treasurer Junita Jamaludin, deputy rectors Prof Madya Ts Chm Dr Mohammad Isa Mohamadin (Academic and International Affairs), Prof Madya Dr Saimi Bujang (Student Affairs), and Prof Ir Dr Juferi Idris (Research and Industry Networking), alongside campus leaders, parents, and family members.
The Sarawak convocation is part of UiTM’s 102nd series, which began in Shah Alam on Sept 3 and runs until Sept 20 at Dewan Agung Tuanku Canselor (DATC), before continuing in Sabah in early October.
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