By Dayang Nurramizah Awang Abdurahman
Gombak, 27 November 2019: Proud identical twin sisters from Sabah, Nor Syahira Mohd Tombel and Nor Syahila Mohd Tombel who recently graduated spoke highly about their father who had raised them alone as a single parent.
“We always try our best in our studies since we want to make our father proud and happy since he had sacrificed a lot from start.”
Syahira pointed out, “Since we did not have a mother from a young age, he had raised us all alone. That is our inspiration to become successful in life.”
In a session with IIUMToday, Syahira, a Kulliyyah of Science graduate, also said that they did not always do everything together. “We did not even attend the same school, let alone pursue the same courses in the university,” she added.
Both born in Sabah, Syahira pursued Physics in the Kuantan campus and Syahila, Quantity Surveyor (KAED), in Gombak. They received their scrolls at IIUM 35th Convocation Ceremony on Monday (25 November).
Asked about what inspires them to work their hardest, they both have one thing in common – their family.
“The thing that motivates and inspires me to finish my study is my promise to graduate within the same year as my twin sister,” Syahila said.
“Even though there were many obstacles during my years of study, when I think about her (Syahira), it pushes me to realise my goal.”
Both the twins also shared an inspiring quote that both held on to throughout their years of studying separately – “With Allah nothing is impossible. If you feel like giving up, always ask from Him and ask Him to lend you His strength. Remember that our prayers always accompany us wherever we go.”
For the twin sisters, everyone will face difficulties in their studies, regardless of their field. No matter how easy or difficult the subjects are, every knowledge is deemed meaningful and valuable.***