At just 36 years old, Dr Siti Hawa Apandi, an alumna of Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), has etched her name into history after being recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records.
She is the first person in Malaysia living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) to complete continuous higher education, from Diploma to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and ultimately a PhD, all at the same university.
Unwavering passion despite physical limitations
Her achievement is extraordinary not only because of the academic milestones she reached, but because of the immense challenges she overcame along the way. Dr Siti Hawa lives with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and requires her to use a wheelchair.
Yet, despite the physical limitations imposed by the condition, her passion for learning never faded.
Beginning her academic journey at UMPSA in 2007 as a diploma student, she progressed seamlessly through every level of higher education.
In 2016, she completed her Master’s degree in Computer Science (Software Engineering), and last year, she reached the pinnacle of her academic journey by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science Engineering.
A mother’s devotion and sacrifice
Behind every remarkable achievement is a story of unwavering support, and in Dr Siti Hawa’s case, that pillar of strength has always been her mother, Zaidah Tamjis.
For more than a decade, Zaidah made UMPSA’s residential college her second home, living alongside her daughter and caring for her throughout every stage of her studies. Her quiet sacrifices and unconditional love became the foundation upon which Dr Siti Hawa built her dreams.
An award accepted with pride
Regrettably, Dr Siti Hawa was unable to attend UMPSA’s 20th Convocation Ceremony to receive her PhD in person, as she was undergoing intensive treatment following complications from a lung infection.
Instead, her parents accepted the scroll on her behalf, which was presented by UMPSA Pro-Chancellor Tan Sri Abi Musa Asaari Mohamed Nor at the university’s Sports Complex Hall.
In a Facebook post, UMPSA Vice-Chancellor Professor Ts. Dr Yatimah Alias, shared that the recognition is not only a proud moment for Dr Siti Hawa and her family, but also a significant achievement that brings honour to the university.
“Dr Siti Hawa is a symbol of extraordinary strength. She has proven that academic excellence is not defined by one’s physical limitations, but by unwavering determination, relentless effort, and an indomitable spirit.”
Dr Siti Hawa has not only brought pride to UMPSA, but has also become a true inspiration to all Malaysians, especially persons with disabilities, demonstrating that no dream is beyond reach.
Also read: Student Hospitalised After Spending Hours Gaming & Doomscrolling in Bed Every Day During Holidays
