The journey to becoming an outstanding student is marked by dedication, perseverance and a constant pursuit of knowledge. Success goes beyond academic achievements, encompassing participation in extracurricular activities, community contributions and the development of strong moral character.
Nabilah Ulfah binti Haji Jopry @ Mujiburrahman, a 23-year-old Bachelor of Halal Science graduate from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), embodies these qualities and was awarded the prestigious Pro-Chancellor Medal during the recent Medals and Book Prize Awards ceremony.
In an interview, Nabilah said that her academic consistency was built on effective time management and discipline. She stressed the importance of setting clear, achievable goals and using deadlines to stay on track. “Tools like calendars and to-do lists help me stay organised and prioritise tasks effectively,” she said.
She also highlighted the value of regular self-assessment, which allowed her to track her progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust her approach for greater productivity as well as realising the need to balance academic responsibilities with personal well-being.
“Maintaining good health and mental well-being is essential for long-term success,” she said.
Faith, she added, was central to her journey. “It’s crucial to seek your parents’ prayers, never neglect your own, and trust in Allah the Almighty through every challenge. Faith provides strength, clarity, and motivation, especially when times are tough.”
Receiving the Pro-Chancellor Medal has deepened Nabilah’s commitment to giving back to her alma mater and the community. “It inspires me to contribute to UNISSA, whether through research or future projects. I want to bring meaningful change and have a positive impact on the community.”
Nabilah plans to pursue a PhD in halal management and aspires to become a lecturer, where she can share her expertise and inspire the next generation of halal professionals.
Similarly, Siti Majidah binti Rahim, a 24-year-old Bachelor of Halal Science graduate, was awarded the Rector Medal and attributed her success to discipline and meticulous time management.
“Every night before bed, I make a to-do list for the next day to ensure I use my time wisely,” she explained. A positive mindset was the key to her achievements, as she maintained a belief in “I can” and “I will succeed”.
Siti Majidah achieved an impressive CGPA of 3.85 while actively participating in halal product competitions, innovations, and research publications. Her commitment to expanding her knowledge beyond lecture notes and connecting it to real-world issues significantly contributed to her academic success.
She regularly sought advice from lecturers and engaged in both academic and non-academic activities, reinforcing her belief that success is not solely measured by the outcome, but also by the dedication throughout the journey.
Her recognition as the recipient of the Rector Medal and Book Prize Award has only strengthened her resolve to continue her academic path. She is determined to elevate UNISSA’s reputation by participating in innovative halal product competitions and promoting local products. “I aim to contribute to the global halal discourse and help position Brunei’s halal industry among the top 10 globally, aligning with Brunei Vision 2035 and advancements in the Industrial Revolution 4.0, especially through technology-driven halal innovation.”
Siti Majidah is currently pursuing a PhD in halal science (halal management) full-time and exploring job opportunities that align with her expertise. She has received numerous prestigious awards throughout her academic career, including being named Student Icon for two consecutive years. In her third year at UNISSA, she received the Book Prize for Academic Excellence, highlighting her commitment to scholarly excellence.
She has also earned titles such as Young Halal Writer, Young Halal Innovator, and Young Researcher, awarded by her faculty. On the international stage, Siti Majidah has secured seven medals – four gold, two silver, and one bronze – along with accolades including Most Promising Research, Best Favourite Video, Best Paper Research, and the Special Halal Science Award, recognising her contributions to global halal research.
Her innovations in halal product development have also gained recognition from the Brunei Intellectual Property Office (BruIPO), which awarded her the Tertiary Recognition Award for producing seven halal-certified products, solidifying her status as a visionary in the field of halal management. – Rokiah Mahmud
