ACADEMIC success does not come from excessive studying but from deep understanding.
For international business undergraduate Nurul Aminatul Zahraa Yunus, that mindset has translated into multiple Dean’s List recognitions at Unitar International University.
She attributed her academic achievements to a focused and practical approach: paying close attention during lectures and revisiting recorded classes to reinforce her understanding.
“Follow your lecturers, stay consistent and do what is required – success will come,” said the former Student Representative Council president for the 2023/2024 term, who is expected to graduate in 2028.
Nurul Aminatul Zahraa was among nearly 400 students honoured at the Unitar Dean’s List Award Ceremony on June 27.
The occasion was especially meaningful for Agathiiyan Krishna Muthri, who shared the achievement with his triplet brothers Aghiilan and Arrjunan.
The siblings, each specialising in different areas of information technology, have collectively earned more than 10 Dean’s List awards throughout their academic journey, from foundation studies to their undergraduate programmes.
“We don’t compete – we support each other,” said Agathiiyan, the eldest of the triplets, in a press release.
He believes academic success is rooted in strategy rather than sheer hours of study.
“Assignments show you what matters. It’s about understanding, not memorising,” he stressed.
Agathiiyan also credited collaborative learning as a key factor, having worked closely with peers who contributed different strengths, from coding to documentation, while he often helped simplify complex concepts for others.
Beyond academics, he actively participates in student organisations and leadership roles, recognising the importance of developing well-rounded skills.
“To position ourselves well, we need more than grades,” he said, adding that balancing coursework with meetings, projects and extracurricular responsibilities remains his biggest challenge – one that continues to shape his growth.
His brother Arrjunan also highlighted the importance of embracing university life beyond grades.
“You can study, and you can still enjoy the experience,” he said.
The brothers plan to pursue master’s degrees while gaining work experience after graduating next year.
Another Dean’s List achiever, Suziana Nabilla Suhaimi also demonstrated that academic excellence can go hand in hand with active campus involvement.
The Penang state government and Unitar scholarship recipient has consistently earned Dean’s List recognition while contributing as a secretary of the Unitar Peers Club for the 2025/26 term. The student-led group promotes well-being, peer mentoring and campus engagement, helping students connect, adapt and grow beyond academics.
Suziana Nabilla, who is set to graduate from the Bachelor of Education (Honours) programme in 2028, attended the award ceremony with her coursemates dressed in vibrant traditional Malay attire.
“We wanted to make the most of the moment – celebrate, create memories and enjoy the experience together,” she said.
Unitar International University vice-chancellor Emeritus Prof Tan Sri Dr Sahol Hamid Abu Bakar said the achievements of these students reflect more than academic ability.
“These students demonstrate that success is built on discipline, resilience, and the ability to learn both independently and collaboratively.
“We are proud to see our students not only excel academically, but also develop the character and adaptability needed to thrive in today’s evolving world by building highly employable skills,” he said.
