ARAU: A deep-seated passion for engineering since childhood was the driving force behind Mohammad Syafizul Zolkurnin’s success in earning the Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) Chancellor’s Gold Medal Award.
The 25-year-old from Pantai Merdeka, Kedah, who completed his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, shared that, as a child, he often designed boats and houses using wood.
This early interest in engineering laid the foundation for his academic journey.
As the eldest of three brothers, Mohammad Syafizul said his primary motivation was improving his family’s circumstances.
His father works as a forklift driver in a factory, while his mother is a clerk at a non-governmental organisation.
“It is my responsibility as the eldest to work hard and achieve success not only for myself but also to provide a better life for my family and to repay my parents,” he told Bernama at the 19th UniMAP convocation ceremony yesterday.
Present at the ceremony were the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, who is UniMAP’s Chancellor, and the Raja Puan Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Dr Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil, who is UniMAP’s Pro-Chancellor.
For Mohammad Syafizul, receiving the Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medal Award at the diploma level was a “double success” as he went on to pursue his bachelor’s degree at the same university.
Among challenges he faced was a road accident in 2021 during his practical training, which resulted in a broken left hand.
However, Mohammad Syafizul’s determination helped him complete his studies with excellence.
“I am interested in pursuing a PhD and hope to return as a lecturer at UniMAP one day,” he shared.
Mohammad Syafizul also encouraged other students to work hard, seek guidance from lecturers and others when facing challenges, and never give up easily.
He added that UniMAP provides quality education and close industry ties, giving students an edge as they enter the workforce.
“UniMAP’s collaboration with the industry provides valuable practical training, allowing us to understand the real demands of a career in engineering beyond classroom learning,” Mohammad Syafizul said.
