By Nur Aisya Suria Binti Abdul Rasyid
United by academic excellence, determined commitment and the joy of accomplishing something significant, students, professors, and guests gathered for MEGAH (Majlis Apresiasi Gemilang Mahasiswa) 2023 to celebrate and acknowledge outstanding academic achievements. The event honoured students for their hard work and success.
Student Afif Jazimin, the programme director, led a team of 79 actively involved students, comprising 24 council representatives and 55 committee members, in managing this remarkable event.
“Even with hectic schedules, we’re dedicated to making this event successful. With teamwork, we ensure everything runs smoothly through student leaders’ skills, hard work, commitment, and determination,” Afif said.
In the face of challenges, they’ve created a memorable experience. Even with busy schedules, students can achieve impressive success in management and leadership through dedication.
The MEGAH 2023 featured an extraordinary Masquerade Night theme, and the Banquet Hall of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) DeTAR PUTRA had a spectacular makeover. Guests, elegantly dressed in fancy clothes and captivating masks, infused the event with elegance and mystery amidst beautiful decorations, capturing a truly magical atmosphere. Dazzling dances and enchanting musical performances blended seamlessly with the luxurious surroundings. This theme offered a splendid and unforgettable night, where delectable food and the celebration of achievements unite in a glorious spectacle.
UNIMAS continued its tradition of recognising outstanding students at MEGAH, presenting 24 awards across seven categories this year, including exclusive awards from the dean. Unlike the previous year, there was a reduction in the number of awards. Judgments aligned with the criteria for the student icon award at the Ministry of Higher Education level. Candidates were evaluated using a scoring rubric. Others involved in the evaluation include Prof Ir Dr Al-Khalid bin Hj Othman, UNIMAS Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student and Alumni Affairs (HEPA), and faculty deans.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, who officiated at the event, as well as Mohd Azhari Afirul Amiruddin, the President of the Student Representative Council for the 2022/2023 session.
Dr Annuar encouraged students to do well in their studies and develop strong leadership skills, emphasising the importance of a balanced approach for overall growth and future success.
UNIMAS is dedicated to creating outstanding leaders and providing platforms for talented students to contribute positively to our nation’s progressive growth. Through these occasions, we celebrate those who have worked hard and achieved success.
Awards like these create additional opportunities for them to participate actively in higher-level programmes. Beyond academic achievements, students should seek chances to distinguish themselves and engage in healthy competition within their academic community. University life differs significantly from school, allowing them to leave their comfort zones and explore diverse experiences.
As a student, don’t confine yourself; explore your talents in your chosen field. Remaining an active student has its challenges. Like the award winners on that memorable night, achieving a high level serves as an inspiration for other students, encouraging them not to give up. Receiving an award represents a joyful moment for the winner, signifying recognition at the university level.
The appreciation towards what you have done is significant for moving forward in the future. Share your success, inspire others, and promote these awards to develop a culture of achievement on campus. Embrace your potential, tackle challenges with determination, and keep encouraging your fellow friends. This kind of acknowledgement allows us to appreciate their hard work and dedication in contributing to elevating UNIMAS to a global level. Promoting these awards is vital to let others appreciate the great potential of UNIMAS students for the future job market.
The MEGAH 2023 event is a transformative gathering, transcending the mere recognition of achievements. It acts as a motivator, inspiring students and helping them grow. This celebration goes beyond academic excellence, recognising resilience, leadership, community service and sportsmanship. Each award symbolises students’ collective effort and undivided dedication, forming a collective identity driven by shared dreams and determination. The applause echoed beyond the award recipients, touching all the students, educators, and guests and fostering a culture based on shared visions and success.
Recognising outstanding students with awards is crucial. It opens bright opportunities for them to thrive in their chosen fields. Companies seek skilled employees to maintain business credibility in today’s capable world. With each success, they carve a path for others to follow, fostering a culture of continuous growth and accomplishment.
Let’s embrace the spirit of achievement together, knowing your journey doesn’t end here but extends into a future brimming with limitless possibilities. As a reflect on these achievements, let them serve as a source of inspiration. It propels you forward with renewed determination and contributes to your skill development, making you an asset in the workforce.
- This article was written by a student from the Strategic Communication Programme at the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, UNIMAS.
