'My family is my backbone'

SHAH ALAM - A person with disability (PwD) graduate Maizan Nordin, 29, who is suffering from spina bifida since she was little succeeded in holding a degree during the 38th International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM) Convocation Ceremony.

The graduate of the Human Science (Political Science) programme said there were many challenges, twists and turns that she had to endure throughout her studies.

However, with commitment and support from her family, Maizan was determined to push herself and kept trying without looking at her disability as a form of obstacle to succeed.

"Although I faced other problems and was often in and out of the hospital, it did not break my spirit to continue my studies.

"I dedicate this degree to both my parents and siblings because they are my backbone and strength to keep me strong and passionate," she said on Monday.

The scroll was presented by IIUM Board of Governors member Datuk Seri Dr Syed Hussien Abd Kadir AlHabshee at the ceremony the IIUM Gombak Campus on Monday.

Maizan, who was the youngest of four siblings said she also had to face the constraints of studying online during the pandemic under the Movement Control Order (MCO).

"It was quite difficult during MCO because I had to study by myself. If we are at the campus, my friends would help me and we would study together. I felt like I was all alone when studying online," she said.

However, she said she was excited when she was able to go back to the campus to complete her studies with her friends.

"I am grateful that many of my university mates and lecturers helped me, they were patient with me throughout my studies until we graduated," she said.

Meanwhile, Maizan's father, Nordin Noh, 69, said there were challenges in raising his daughter where the hospital could be said as their second home as the former also suffered from other health issues.

"The hospital is like our second home and my wife had to quit her job to care for and manage Maizan.

"I am proud of Maizan's achievements and we are very grateful for the success we have achieved today. She also followed in the footsteps of her other siblings to hold a degree," he said.

Maizan is currently taking a short-term course at the AirAsia Academy in the Analytical Data field.