‘Nothing is impossible,’ says graduand with dwarfism and winner of ʻAbdullah Ibn Umm Maktum award

By, Farihah Halim

GOMBAK, 17 December 2024: “Nothing is impossible If the heart doesn’t give up,” said Nurhidayu binti Ishak, the recipient of the Special Achievement Award ʻAbdullah Ibn Umm Maktum (Academic) at the 40th IIUM Convocation Ceremony, yesterday at IIUM Gombak. She was a graduand from the Kulliyyah of Information and Communication Technology (KICT).

Born with dwarfism, 24-year-old Nurhidayu, the fourth of five siblings, faced unique challenges as a student with a disability. However, her journey at the IIUM is a remarkable story of resilience, community involvement, and academic success.

In an exclusive interview with IIUMToday, Nurhidayu shared that being a student with a disability came with distinct hurdles. Yet, instead of letting these challenges define or limit her, she embraced them as stepping stones to pursue her passions and contribute meaningfully to the IIUM community.

“I believe that by having a strong sense of self and surrounding yourself with a supportive community can inspire you to strive for a better life,” she explained.

She also expressed her deep gratitude for having her supportive family and friends, calling them her ‘rock’ for their constant encouragement, understanding, and belief in her abilities, even during the times when she doubted herself.

Additionally, she emphasized the importance of societal understanding and support of the unique needs of students with disabilities. She noted that each disability requires tailored care, and greater awareness of their plight can significantly ease their educational journeys.

A major highlight of her university experience was her active involvement in the Ibn Ummi Maktum Club, a platform dedicated to supporting the community for students with disabilities at the IIUM. However, her contributions did not stop there. Nurhidayu’s passion for the arts flourished as she took centre stage in theatre performances throughout her university years.

Her interest in traditional music also encouraged her to join the IIUM Angklung Club, where she learned to play the angklung, a bamboo musical instrument and performed at prestigious events such as Citra Open Day and the Royal Concert.

Nurhidayu’s adventurous spirit went beyond the arts. In 2022, she participated in the IIUM OKU Kinabalu Challenge, where she successfully climbed Mount Kinabalu alongside a team of students with disabilities.

She expressed profound gratitude to the IIUM for providing crucial support that enabled her to pursue her education. She also thanked her beloved family, friends, and Professor Dr. Ruzita Mohd. Amin, Head of the Disability Services Unit (DSU), for their constant support throughout her academic journey.

Asked about her future plans, Nurhidayu said she is planning to continue her studies by pursuing a master’s degree. ***