One for the album: The recipients with (back row, from left) Kazlina; Higher Education Ministry Yayasan Perkasa Siswa manager (collaboration and strategic) Zulkifli Che Hussin; and Safi corporate and regulatory manager Rozaina Mahmod.
WHEN a woman is empowered with opportunity, she does not merely transform her own life, but also uplifts her entire family and community.
It is this belief in women’s development that saw 25 Malaysian female students recently awarded the Biasiswa Siswi Safi scholarships.
The scholars, selected from over 20,700 applicants, will receive financial support of up to RM40,000 to pursue higher education at public universities – an opportunity often hindered by financial constraints, family responsibilities, and societal expectations that can interfere with their academic aspirations.
The scholarship programme’s distribution of up to RM1mil in educational funding to recipients in its second edition reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that deserving students are not held back from pursuing their educational goals.
Safi brands and insights specialist Kazlina Mohd Kassim said the company, a local beauty brand, believes that true beauty extends beyond what meets the eye.
“It emerges from confidence, knowledge, and the opportunities that shape a woman’s future.
“The scholarship is about more than providing financial assistance; it is about investing in potential and creating pathways where none existed before,” she said in a Dec 19 press release.
She added that each recipient has shown extraordinary resilience and ambition.
“They’ve proven they have what it takes to succeed, and we are proud to stand beside them as they write the next chapter of their stories,” she said.
The 2025 edition of the annual programme was open to applicants aged 18 to 25 with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0.
Applications were reviewed for eligibility and alignment with Safi’s mission to empower and inspire young women. Shortlisted candidates were invited to submit self-introduction videos elaborating on their motivations, aspirations, and why they deserved the scholarship.
The top 40 finalists then participated in a comprehensive online boot camp designed to evaluate personality, communication skills, leadership qualities, resourcefulness and critical thinking.
Recording her appreciation for the scholarship, University Malaysia Sarawak student Nur Qaidatul Anira Abdullah Suwandy said the financial relief allows her to pursue her higher education goals without the burden of financial stress.
“This scholarship means everything to my family and me. It has also stood as validation that our dreams matter, that the potential of young Malaysian women is recognised.
“I am determined to make the most of this incredible opportunity,” she said.
Looking ahead, Kazlina said the company is committed to expanding its impact and reaching more deserving students in the years ahead.
