From kindergarten to LSE: Malaysian twins credit family, collaboration for academic success
Malaysian siblings dominate at London School of Economics
SHARIFAH SHAHIRAH
SHAH ALAM - ‘Loving what you learn is always the best way to be good at what you learn.’
This inspiring mantra, shared by one of the twins, beautifully captures the journey of Muhammad Shafeeq Abdul Reezal and Muhammad Shahmi Abdul Reezal.
Their unwavering dedication and passion have guided them to an extraordinary academic achievement.
Recently, the siblings both earned First Class Honours in Accounting and Finance from the prestigious London School of Economics (LSE) in London, in the United Kingdom (UK).
“I couldn't have made it without my parents, my family, my friends. I'm forever in their debt, for giving me the motivation and the means to achieve the success I enjoy today.
“I owe them everything, and I hope that over the years I can repay them and make them proud,” Shahmi told Sinar Daily when contacted recently.
Both twins were deeply inspired by their mother, whose career was a significant motivator for pursuing degrees in Accounting and Finance. Their mother, a chartered accountant under
Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), began her professional journey as an auditor at Arthur Andersen.
Shafeeq, eager to follow in her footsteps, is set to join EY London as a Financial Services Auditor in September.
Meanwhile, Shahmi influenced by his parents and his own strong interest in business and finance is currently working as an analyst at Goldman Sachs London.
Shahmi said that he plans to work at Goldman Sachs for a few years, earn a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, and eventually return to Malaysia to advance in the high finance industry.
Shafeeq, on the other hand, intends to pursue further qualifications in chartered accountancy and once certified, also plans to return to Malaysia.
When asked about moments of friendly competition between them, Shahmi acknowledged that there was always an element of rivalry that motivated them to continuously improve.
Shafeeq agreed, noting that while they never had any overtly antagonistic rivalries in their studies, the underlying competition was always present.
Ultimately, they both understood that their mutual success was the goal.
“However, when it came to subjects, we were both passionate about, such as History and Mathematics, it was always fun to see who could score the higher mark.
“But competition amongst ourselves was never the driving force behind our academic success, and instead it was the desire to always improve on ourselves that spearheaded our achievement,” Shafeeq added.
Reflecting on their shared experiences, the twins stressed that they had been in the same class from kindergarten through primary and secondary school.
They continued through A-Levels and even at LSE, where they coincidentally ended up together.
Their interests often aligned, especially in history and geopolitics, and they were exposed to the same books and TV shows growing up, which contributed to the parallel development of their passions.
They highlighted that being twins provided a significant advantage, facilitating the easy exchange of ideas and collaborative studying.
Their joint efforts in studying were natural, as they supported and motivated each other throughout their academic journey.
This spontaneous discussion and revision helped them deepen their knowledge consistently without the need for formal study sessions.
They both offered the same advice to students pursuing higher education: have a clear understanding of what you want to study.
Shahmi emphasised that success goes beyond just hard work; it’s crucial to genuinely appreciate and engage with what you are learning.
“If they know what makes their brains tick, then finding the motivation to study and pursue good grades comes naturally. Be inquisitive, be malleable and flexible, and you shouldn't go wrong.
“As for aspiring accountants, while accounting may seem dull, there are nuances to it that you can truly appreciate. So, loving what you learn is always the best way to be good at what you learn,” Shahmi said.
Shafeeq also emphasised the importance of self-belief, stating that confidence in oneself and one’s abilities can significantly impact academic success.
With effective study strategies and dedication, he added, students can overcome obstacles, and the main barrier to success is often their own effort and enthusiasm.
He also advised surrounding oneself with people who are motivated to succeed and who support your achievements.
He recommended studying smartly, focusing on key topics rather than trying to memorise everything, which can be far more effective.
“Studying is equal parts work and strategy, and your studying strategy can really make or break your academic performance! The best advice I can give is to always understand your weaknesses and your strengths.
“The best way to achieve results is to know where you can improve. Learn from your failures and successes, and don't be complacent. Complacency is the enemy of progress,” he added.
Beyond academics, the twins also embraced their hobbies in the UK. Shafeeq developed a passion for hiking, a new interest sparked by the cooler weather and the accessibility of the British countryside.
He spent most weekends exploring trails outside of London, tackling the stunning Cliffs of Dover, the peaceful hills of the Peak District, and Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), the highest peak in Wales.
Meanwhile, Shahmi enjoyed the diverse activities available in London.
He and his friends often played badminton and futsal, and recently took up bouldering, which he found to be a fantastic way to meet new people and unwind with friends, despite its physical challenges.
For a more relaxed pastime, he also liked watching West End musicals and stage plays, which offered a refreshing break from his hours in the library.
At just 23 years old, the brothers accomplished this feat under challenging conditions.
They completed their A-Levels during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and began their university studies amidst strict health protocols, including regular polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing and various campus restrictions.
Their achievement is particularly noteworthy given the rarity of twins both attaining First Class Honours in the same program at such a competitive institution.
The brothers will celebrate their graduation on July 17, 2024, at the Peacock Theatre, LSE.
