‘Seek discomfort’ – KAED valedictorian, Muhamad Arif’s philosophy for overcoming challenges

By, Aqmar Khan

GOMBAK, 22 November 2024: Challenges are integral to personal and collective development, shaping individuals into stronger, and more capable versions of themselves. “It is important to remember that the scroll in our hand is not just a piece of paper but it is a symbol of all the hardship, challenges, and struggles that we have all been facing collectively over the past four years,” expressed Muhamad Arif Aiman bin Che Ariffin in his valedictorian speech.

He was the recipient of the Best Student (Overall) Award from the Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design (KAED). His conferment took place in session six of the 40th IIUM Convocation Ceremony on 19 November, at IIUM Gombak.

In his inspiring speech, Muhamad Arif urged graduates to reflect on moments when they stood at the brink of giving up, with failure looming large. He reminded them that had they succumbed to the temptation to quit, they would not have reached this milestone today. “Because despite all the struggles and the hardships, you can and you will persevere,” said Muhammad Arif

Those words reflect the quote that he lived by that was said by former US President, John F. Kennedy, “In times of hardship, adversity, and challenges, do not pray for an easier life but pray to be a stronger man”.

Furthermore, he emphasized the university’s role in cultivating not only academic excellence but also a sense of responsibility towards the ummah. “Today, you are not just the pride of your family but the pride of the ummah. The IIUM has taught us that greatness is not a privilege but a responsibility to serve, contribute, and lead.”

During his valedictorian speech, Muhamad Arif paid an emotional tribute to his parents, highlighting their profound influence on his life and the greatest inspiration towards his success. Reflecting on their humble beginnings in rural Kelantan, he shared how his mother, Dr. Nik Hasimah binti Nik Yahya, raised four children while pursuing her study at Oxford, ultimately becoming one of Malaysia’s first Renal Histopathologists. His father, Che Ariffin bin Che Mahmood, the son of a lorry driver, overcame extreme poverty to become the first university graduate from Kok Lanas, breaking the cycle of hardship in their family.

“If they can do it, what’s my excuse?” Muhammad Arif stated.

Muhamad Arif also took a moment to thank his sisters, Atira, Amalina, and Alia as well as his beloved cat, Puteh, for their constant support. He also extended a special mention to his “Hayati“, Siti Farhanah binti Shamshul, acknowledging her unwavering affection and support during his most challenging moments. “Without your gleaming light in the darkest of days, I would definitely not be where I am today. Thank you so much,” he concluded.

In an exclusive interview with IIUMTODAY, the top graduate shared that his journey at the IIUM was both challenging and filled with obstacles, especially as a student at the Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design (KAED).

He revealed that he embraced a philosophy of “Seeking Discomfort”, pushing himself beyond his comfort zone by taking on leadership roles of president in three different societies which are, The Good Society, Planmic Student Society for the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, ARCHIMIC, a student society of Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design (KAED), all while maintaining a balance with his academic commitments. “It was tough, but Alhamdulillah, today I did it and I can see the smiles on my family’s faces,” he expressed.

“I just want to travel first but ultimately, I do hope that I can serve the nation well and be an asset to the country. All I want to do is just help people,” he added in the interview on his future plans after graduation.

Before he concluded his remarkable speech, Muhamad Arif Aiman extended a warm gratitude to his friends from The Good Society for their faith and belief in him. He also acknowledged the guidance of his lecturers from the Department of Urban and Regional Planning and the ARCHIMIC family, whose mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping his academic journey.

He also dedicated his speech to his late friend, Mohd Hani Baihaqi bin Muhammad Hafizi, who was a KAED student taking the Bachelor of Science (Architectural Studies) program, remembering him as a cherished and beloved companion whose memory will live on forever.

Lastly, the best student encouraged graduates to march forward with the shared goal of creating a brighter and better future for all, concluding with a heartfelt congratulations to the class of 2024 for their achievements and called for a ‘Free Palestine.’

The Best Student (Overall) Award was conferred by Honourable Dato’ Abdul Majit Ahmad Khan, a member of the IIUM Board of Governors at IIUM Gombak.***