Nur Balqis poses with her degree certificate obtained from Unimas. — Photo by Chimon Upon
KOTA SAMARAHAN (Nov 5): Being hearing-impaired since secondary school has not stopped Nur Balqis Mohd Nasir, 23, from completing the Bachelors of Human Resource Development with Honours programme from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas).
Hailing from Selama, Perak, she received her scroll with a 3.16 CGPA at Unimas’ 28th Convocation ceremony, which was presented by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also the university’s pro-chancellor.
When speaking to reporters, Nur Balqis shared that her achievement was the result of the full support of her parents, family, and close friends.
“Although I am far from my family, I call them every weekend for encouragement and prayers. They have been my inspiration in overcoming the challenges I have faced in my undergraduate journey.
“In moments when I feel sad or lack motivation, I turn to my family for strength to carry on,” she said.
Speaking on her disability, she said it was caused by under-functioning nerves in her ears, which led to hearing difficulties at the age of 14.
Despite this, she persevered and relied on her coursemates to help her study.
“Sometimes, people talk really fast and I can’t really listen well, thus, during those times, I’ve had to ask help from my friends.
“Should I have missed any crucial information, I would depend on my friends,” she said in expressing her gratitude.
During her time at Unimas, Nur Balqis said that she did not face any form of discrimination or ridicule. However, she admitted that in secondary school, students would commit acts to humiliate her. Nevertheless, she remained positive and preserved through secondary school.
“Throughout my studies at Unimas, I was never looked down upon or humiliated by anyone. Instead, my coursemates provided me with strong support, helping me to complete all of my assignments,” she said, adding that hearing aids have also supported her to communicate.
When asked on future plans, Nur Balqis revealed that she plans to enter the field of education by pursuing a diploma in education at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM).
To this end, she hopes that other students with disabilities will persevere and remain motivated to complete their studies.
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