James Kon
Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) recently held its Excellence Awards Ceremony in conjunction with the UTB Convocation Ceremony 2022. The Bulletin caught up with several award recipients who shared their success stories behind the achievement.
Vincentius Billy Devanandha, who graduated with a Master of Science (by Coursework) in Information Security received a University Excellence Award and Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) Award – Best (Masters) Student Award 2022.
“Double the awards, double the happiness. I couldn’t be happier, and I am delighted to receive all these awards,” he said. “I didn’t expect that I would receive them. I am very appreciative of the recognition by UTB for my hard work,” he said.
“To be a top achiever, I worked really hard. I did extra work and revision. Instead of playing games and hanging out with friends, I opted to stay home and do my research. I sacrificed my social life and entertainment in general.”
Elaborating on challenges faced, he shared that he had to struggle with stress. “I suffered from minor mental health issues like mild anxiety and depression due to the pressure to get good grades. I overcame this by meditating and exercising.”
He thanked his family and friends for their support.
Hailing from Indonesia, Devanandha added that he will be looking for job opportunities in the Sultanate.
Meanwhile, Siti Rasyidah binti Haji Ismail, graduate of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Networking, received a University Excellence Award by the Authority for Infocommunications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) – SCI Best (Undergraduate) Student Award 2022 and Datastream Digital Sdn Bhd (DST) Award – SCI (Undergraduate) Final Year Project Award 2022.
“Growing up, I really didn’t achieve A’s or receive any best student awards. I was given a chance to tell my old self that with hardship comes ease.
“Given the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at one of the top universities in ASEAN is already an honour. Being acknowledged for my hard work is truly a blessing.
“I cannot say that I achieved such good grades on my own because I received valuable support from my parents and friends,” she added.
“COVID-19 was the biggest challenge I faced throughout university due to the limitation on data gathering, process of project development and deployment of my final project.
Fortunately, I was able to contact the relevant authority for my project and conducted meetings online,” she said.
Behind her success and achievement, she said, “there are two people – my parents. Their support and endless prayers as well as sacrifices have allowed me to be the person I am today.”
Siti Rasyidah added that she hopes to contribute her knowledge and expertise to society.
Another recipient to speak to the Bulletin was Assistant Professor/Deputy Dean (Academic) of the Faculty of Engineering at UTB Pengiran Dr Seri Rahayu binti Pengiran Ya’akub, who received the Administrative Excellence Award for Academic Staff.
“This is my second award. Last year, I received the special mention award in the same category. I feel happy and grateful for receiving this award today. It’s my honour to provide quality service and contribution to UTB,” she affirmed.
Pengiran Dr Seri Rahayu was a programme leader of mechanical engineering last year and was appointed Deputy Dean (Academic) of the Faculty of Engineering.
“I am monitoring four programmes under the Faculty of Engineering – civil engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, mechanical engineering and petroleum and chemical engineering.”
Sharing some advice, she said, “We are providing our services to the country and the next generation as well as Brunei’s university. With consistent contribution and hard work, we believe that what we are doing is for the nation.”
Senior Assistant Professor and Director of Planning Development Office at UTB Dr Lim Tiong Hoo meanwhile received two awards – the Administrative Excellence Award for Academic Staff and Special Mention Award for Research Excellence for Mid-Career Academic.
“I am grateful to receive the awards,” he said. “All my hard work has paid off. I am very happy that the administration and Vice-Chancellor of UTB Datin Paduka Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman recognise my hard work.”
With two roles at UTB, he said, “It is important to have time management skills and know how to carry out work efficiently.
“In addition, I also have a good team working with me, so this award is not just for myself, but also for my team.”
Speaking on dedication to be successful, he said, “Personally, I always want to do my best when I am given the responsibility. Therefore, I thank UTB’s vice-chancellor for believing in me by giving me this opportunity.
“It is important to be passionate about your work and like what you are doing. Manage the time well and eventually you will be successful.”
