Pulau Layang-Layang plays a vital role in today’s increasingly complex geopolitical era, particularly in the context of the South China Sea.

The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Ir. Dr. Zaini Ujang, emphasized that this research not only symbolizes intellectual courage but also reflects the extraordinary dedication of researchers and their assistants in fulfilling a significant mandate for the nation.

“As researchers, you hold a significant responsibility to be catalysts of change.

“Let your research not only be an academic pursuit but also a contribution to shaping the future of our nation,” he stated during his speech at the Launch Ceremony of the Sovereignty Monument Replica and the Book on Pulau Layang-Layang, Malaysia.

Earlier, UMS Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Datuk Dr. Kasim Hj. Mansor, highlighted that this initiative represents a milestone achievement in research, further strengthening UMS's position at both national and international levels.

“Today’s event showcases UMS's capability to leverage research findings and translate them into tangible forms.

“This underscores UMS’s commitment to contributing its expertise and resources to Malaysia while reflecting the determination and spirit of the university community in supporting research agendas that can contribute to national development,” he added.

He also mentioned that the research conducted by the Small Islands Research Center (SIRC), Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, UMS, involved collaborations with other higher learning institutions such as Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

“This research encompasses various disciplines, including geopolitics, socioeconomics, biodiversity, and geomorphology, to support Malaysia’s sovereignty claims and identify sustainable development opportunities.

“The launch of the Sovereignty Monument Replica and the book Pulau Layang-Layang: Malaysia’s Gem in the South China Sea is a testament to UMS’s commitment to research excellence, advancing knowledge with far-reaching impacts on national issues, and nurturing future generations to appreciate national sovereignty,” he remarked.

The ceremony was attended by UMS Board Member Prof. Dr. Baba Musta, UMS Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Prof. Ir. Dr. Rosalam Sarbatly, SIRC Director Dr. Farrah Anis Adnan, and Project Leader Prof. Datuk Dr. Mohd. Harun Abdullah.

For cancer survivor Shamsulmeza Shamsul, strong mental resilience and determination paid off as she graduated with first-class honours in Forestry Science (International Tropical Forestry) during the 36th Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) convocation.

Graduating with CGPA of 3.77 was a moment of triumph for Shamsulmeza. 

“I can’t describe the joy I felt. At first, I was told to defer my studies, but my mother gave me the strength to continue. I am so grateful to be here today,” she told reporters at Chancellory Hall, UMS.

When a vibrant 24-year-old from Tamparuli received her ovarian cancer diagnosis in August 2023, the news came as a shock. 

It was the middle of her fourth semester in International Tropical Forestry, and her academic future suddenly seemed uncertain. 

But instead of succumbing to despair, Shamsulmeza found strength in her family, faith, and an unyielding determination to succeed.

“I was a bit shocked at first,” Shamsulmeza said. “But I told myself, I can do this. My mental strength had to be strong.”

The side effects of chemotherapy were grueling, but Shamsulmeza developed a system that allowed her to navigate both her health challenges and academic responsibilities. 

“During chemo, I would rest. But when exams were near, I pushed myself as hard as I could. It wasn’t easy — the side effects were strong — but I focused on what I could control.” Shamsulmeza said.

Her approach to studying shifted dramatically. Unable to attend physical classes, she relied on notes from her lecturers and adapted her study methods to her condition. 

“I didn’t push myself too hard. I did what I could and left the rest to Allah,” she says, her voice filled with quiet resolve.

Shamsulmeza credits her parents, particularly her mother, as her main source of motivation. 

She said her mother was by her side throughout her hospital stay, ensuring she had the care and encouragement she needed.

“My mother was my rock,” Shamsulmeza said. “When I was in the hospital for a month, she never left me. Even when I couldn’t finish my thesis in time, she motivated me to push forward.” 

Remarkably, Shamsulmeza completed her thesis — normally a two-semester project — in just one week. “She would take me out, even at midnight, to places where I could focus. Her support was everything,” she said.

Despite her struggles, Shamsulmeza became an inspiration to others, particularly her juniors. She generously shared her meticulously crafted study notes and offered words of encouragement.

“They would reach out to me, and I was happy to help,” she said. “My advice to them is simple: set clear goals, stay disciplined, and be consistent. Without discipline, you can’t reach your goals.”

As the youngest of four siblings, Shamsulmeza’s achievements have brought immense pride to her family. 

“They’ve all been so supportive. I couldn’t have done it without them,” she said.

Although Shamsulmeza’s cancer journey isn’t entirely over — she undergoes hospital reviews every three months — her vision for the future remains clear. 

She plans to pursue a master’s degree in forestry sciences, with the ultimate goal of becoming a researcher specialising in entomology.

“My dream is to contribute to the field of insect research,” she said. “This journey has taught me to be strong and never give up on what truly matters.”

Shamsulmeza’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of family, and the strength of the human spirit. 

 “Never let challenges define you,” Syamsul said. “With faith, discipline, and support, you can achieve anything.”

Two 23-year-old identical twins were among the fresh graduates of the Faculty of Business, Economics, and Accountancy (FPEP) at Universiti Malaysia Sabah's (UMS) 26th convocation ceremony here.

Jaynie Jamirin and Janet, hailing from Tongod, were from the same faculty but pursued different majors.

"We rarely saw each other except on weekends. Our relationship was like cats and dogs, but we have always supported each other," said Jaynie, the elder sister.

Despite a physical disability resulting from a car accident, Jaynie's determination to complete her studies never wavered. The twins plan to take different career paths.

"I plan to pursue a master's degree, while Janet aims to start a photo booth studio in our hometown. Our dream is not just to sustain ourselves but to make a positive impact on the community," Jaynie said.

Jaynie, who graduated with a bachelor's degree in economics (Human Resource Economics), received her scroll during the third session of the convocation, presented by UMS Pro-Chancellor Tan Sri Azman Hashim.

Meanwhile, Janet, a bachelor's degree graduate in Business (Entrepreneurship), was conferred her degree during the fourth session by UMS Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor.

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) has produced some 91,915 graduates, including 4,493 who will receive their degrees and diplomas during the university’s 26th convocation ceremony from Dec 7 to Dec 10.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansur said this year’s graduating cohort comprises 119 doctorate, 335 master’s degree, 124 postgraduate diploma, 3,826 bachelor’s degree and 53 diploma recipients. It marks its 30th anniversary this year. 

“Today’s celebration is a testament to the education provided by UMS, which not only emphasises academic excellence but also nurtures essential soft skills for daily life.

He highlighted the university’s consistent improvement in graduate employability rates, with 98.5 per cent of graduates securing employment in 2023 — an increase from 98.3 per cent in 2022 and 96.2 per cent in 2021.

Kasim said UMS has also garnered significant accolades recently. On Nov 27, 2024, the university received the Top Public Higher Education Institution award at the Talentbank Graduates’ Choice Award (GCA) ceremony.

Additionally, on Dec 3, 2024, UMS was honoured with the Huawei ICT Competition Academy Award, while Dr Tan Soo Fun from the Faculty of Computing and Informatics received the Most Dedicated Instructor award.

“UMS functions as a catalyst for social and economic development in Sabah through efforts to develop rural communities, and disadvantaged children, as well as focusing on social and economic issues faced by local communities, including cultural preservation local ethnic groups, environmental conservation and biodiversity research.

“Not to forget, environmental sustainability efforts in Sabah, especially those related to maritime, biodiversity and tropical rainforest conservation also show UMS’s commitment in uplifting the local community and solving critical social issues,” Kasim said. 

Aligned with the Malaysian Education Development Plan (Higher Education) 2015–2025 and the E-Learning Policy, Kasim said UMS has expanded access to education through its Flexible Learning Centre (UMSFLEC). 

He said by implementing Open and Distance Learning (ODL) methods such as Open Educational Resources (OER), Open CourseWare (OCW) and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), UMS continues to promote lifelong learning.

“The Labuan Faculty of International Finance (FKAL) further enhances UMS’s reputation as a hub of innovation and a driver of positive societal change.

“Through the UniMADANI programme, the university has implemented impactful community projects in Labuan, such as the Mushroom Cultivation Project in Kampung Sungai Bedaun, the Kebal Cake Project in Kampung Kilan, the Projek Ayam Penelur in Kampung Pohon Batu and the Projek Bagang Ikan Bilis in Kampung Pantai.

“The Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition also continues to excel in research and innovation, contributing significantly to UMS’s legacy of academic and societal impact,” he said.

As a symbolic celebration of UMS’s 30th anniversary and the Convocation Ceremony, Kasim along with 30 UMS staff and students successfully conquered Mount Kinabalu through the UMS Lambang Puncak Jaya Program.

“This programme aims to show how UMS people from diverse backgrounds together face various challenges to achieve excellence and recognition at its peak,” he said.