Twenty-four-year-old Conservation Biology graduate from Sabah dedicated her Royal Academic Award to the unwavering support from her parents.

Celine Jimmey Lucas was one of two recipients of the prestigious award, which is an academic award given by the Council of Rulers in Malaysia to students at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), during the 26th Convocation Ceremony, over the weekend.

She said her parents’ sacrifice fuelled her drive to succeed. 

“Growing up, I did not fully understand the sacrifices my parents made for my siblings and me. But now, as an adult, I realise the hard work and dedication it took to raise us,” she said.

“I received another award before but this award is my biggest achievement, I am happy because I am able to make my family proud,” she said.

Celine, who hails from Sandakan, said the Covid-19 pandemic created hurdles in her studies.

“Our first year was entirely remote due to lockdowns, the uncertainty with lab schedules was tough, since our course requires practical fieldwork and lab sessions. Learning theory alone was ineffective,” she said.

Despite these challenges, Celine persevered, embracing field trips and lab work once restrictions eased. 

“I truly enjoyed the hands-on experiences and the extracurricular activities I joined, which became like a second family to me,” she said.

Recalling her past struggles, Celine said there were times she thought about quitting because it was hard to stay motivated when it felt like they were not getting the full experience of university life.

“Never forget to pray, work hard and surround yourself with supportive people. My mum always said, ‘Everyone has their own race to run’. 

“So focus on your personal achievements, and be grateful for the people who inspire and guide you,” she said giving words of advice to aspire students.

Asked about future plans, Celine said she is now more focused on work to gain experience but will further her study in future.

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) has its oldest graduate receiving a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, at 74-years-old, during the state university’s 26th convocation ceremony 

Datin Saidutal Badru Mohd Said Keruak said age is never a hurdle to success as long as it is “accompanied by determination”.

The grandmother of three said she chose to study History at UMS to “return to her roots”, eventhough she received an offer from International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).

“I hope my achievement serves as an inspiration to the youth out there who wish to pursue higher education.

“Don’t focus too much on age; what matters is your will and spirit because the journey of acquiring knowledge is not an easy one,“ the former Syariah lawyer was quoted in a statement.

The older sister of former Sabah chief minister Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak obtained her bachelor’s degree from Unversity Malaya at the age of 40 and pursued her master’s at 55 years old.

“I seized the opportunity to further my studies when my children had completed their education and established careers of their own.

“At the same time, I began my career as a secretary in 1970 at the Chief Minister’s Office in Sabah under the leadership of Tun Mustapha Harun,” the Kota Belud native added.

Saidutal conveyed her gratitude to her family for being her greatest source of support and motivation throughout her journey pursuing her studies.

The mother of three received received received the Doctor of Philosophy degree scroll in History, presented by the Yang Di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun Juhar Mahiruddin, at the 26th UMS convocation ceremony.

Individuals with special needs can now expect better access to quality healthcare, including regular screenings and specialised services tailored to their needs.

This improvement follows a recent partnership between Universiti Malaysia Sabah's (UMS) Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Special Olympics Sabah, formalised through a Letter of Intent (LOI).

Faculty dean Datuk Dr Mohd Yusof Ibrahim said the partnership is a major step towards enhancing the well-being of individuals with intellectual disabilities in Sabah.

He added that it advances inclusive health initiatives.

"The LOI marks a unified effort to address the health disparities faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities," he said.

"This collaboration focuses on improving healthcare access, increasing awareness of inclusive health practices, and implementing community engagement programmes that support this group,” he added.

He said that the partnership embodies the spirit of Malaysia Madani, where education and healthcare institutions work together to create an inclusive ecosystem for all, especially the marginalised.

"Through education, training, and research, this collaboration aims to ensure individuals with intellectual disabilities receive the health opportunities they deserve, paving the way for a more inclusive society," he added.

Special Olympics Sabah chairman Dr Jiloris Julian Frederick Dony expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stressing that it strengthens their mission to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities.

"This partnership will help them live healthier, more fulfilling lives. We look forward to working closely with UMS to bring meaningful change to our community."

Under the partnership, special athletes will benefit from regular health programmes and specialised clinical care, ensuring better healthcare access.

It will also equip healthcare professionals and students with the knowledge and skills to support individuals with intellectual disabilities effectively.

Additionally, the collaboration encourages research to address health challenges faced by this community, contributing to evidence-based healthcare practices.

This partnership aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting good health and well-being for all.

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) received RM 200,000 contribution for the implementation of research projects and the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) by the university.

The contribution was presented by the Chairman of Synerlitz, Tan Sri Dato’ Setia Mohd Anwar, to the UMS Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Ir. Dr. Rosalam Hj. Sarbatly, who represents UMS during an event held in conjunction with the Charity Golf Tournament for the 100MW Power Plant Project in Kimanis organized by Synerlitz (M) Sdn Bhd.

Also witnessing the symbolic handover of the mock cheque were the Sabah State Secretary, Datuk Seri Sr Hj Safar Untong, and the Chief Executive Officer of Synerlitz, Datuk Michael Lee.

UMS in a statement stated that the funds would be utilized by the UMS Preparatory Centre for Science and Technology (PPST), led by PPST Director, ChM. Dr. Newati Wid, to implement STEM research projects and initiatives to foster STEM culture among primary and secondary school students.

"UMS expresses its gratitude for this contribution, which is expected to have a significant impact on science and technology education and contribute to building a more competitive future generation," according to UMS statement.