For cancer survivor Shamsulmeza Shamsul, strong mental resilience and determination paid off as she graduated with first-class honours in Forestry Science (International Tropical Forestry) during the 36th Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) convocation.

Graduating with CGPA of 3.77 was a moment of triumph for Shamsulmeza. 

“I can’t describe the joy I felt. At first, I was told to defer my studies, but my mother gave me the strength to continue. I am so grateful to be here today,” she told reporters at Chancellory Hall, UMS.

When a vibrant 24-year-old from Tamparuli received her ovarian cancer diagnosis in August 2023, the news came as a shock. 

It was the middle of her fourth semester in International Tropical Forestry, and her academic future suddenly seemed uncertain. 

But instead of succumbing to despair, Shamsulmeza found strength in her family, faith, and an unyielding determination to succeed.

“I was a bit shocked at first,” Shamsulmeza said. “But I told myself, I can do this. My mental strength had to be strong.”

The side effects of chemotherapy were grueling, but Shamsulmeza developed a system that allowed her to navigate both her health challenges and academic responsibilities. 

“During chemo, I would rest. But when exams were near, I pushed myself as hard as I could. It wasn’t easy — the side effects were strong — but I focused on what I could control.” Shamsulmeza said.

Her approach to studying shifted dramatically. Unable to attend physical classes, she relied on notes from her lecturers and adapted her study methods to her condition. 

“I didn’t push myself too hard. I did what I could and left the rest to Allah,” she says, her voice filled with quiet resolve.

Shamsulmeza credits her parents, particularly her mother, as her main source of motivation. 

She said her mother was by her side throughout her hospital stay, ensuring she had the care and encouragement she needed.

“My mother was my rock,” Shamsulmeza said. “When I was in the hospital for a month, she never left me. Even when I couldn’t finish my thesis in time, she motivated me to push forward.” 

Remarkably, Shamsulmeza completed her thesis — normally a two-semester project — in just one week. “She would take me out, even at midnight, to places where I could focus. Her support was everything,” she said.

Despite her struggles, Shamsulmeza became an inspiration to others, particularly her juniors. She generously shared her meticulously crafted study notes and offered words of encouragement.

“They would reach out to me, and I was happy to help,” she said. “My advice to them is simple: set clear goals, stay disciplined, and be consistent. Without discipline, you can’t reach your goals.”

As the youngest of four siblings, Shamsulmeza’s achievements have brought immense pride to her family. 

“They’ve all been so supportive. I couldn’t have done it without them,” she said.

Although Shamsulmeza’s cancer journey isn’t entirely over — she undergoes hospital reviews every three months — her vision for the future remains clear. 

She plans to pursue a master’s degree in forestry sciences, with the ultimate goal of becoming a researcher specialising in entomology.

“My dream is to contribute to the field of insect research,” she said. “This journey has taught me to be strong and never give up on what truly matters.”

Shamsulmeza’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of family, and the strength of the human spirit. 

 “Never let challenges define you,” Syamsul said. “With faith, discipline, and support, you can achieve anything.”