From Commissioning to Marriage, Bachelor’s to Master’s Journey

By, Elesa Zainal

GOMBAK, 9 December 2025: The journey of graduates of Bachelor in Arabic Language and Literature, Muhammad Darul Naim bin Abdul Mutalib and Arifah Aisyah binti Ariffadilah, is a story of discipline, resilience and shared purpose.

Both received their scrolls together during the seventh session of the 41st IIUM Convocation Ceremony on 9 December at the Main Hall of IIUM Cultural Centre (ICC).

Naim’s final year was especially remarkable. He was recognised as the Best Cadet of Reserve Officer Training Unit (ROTU) Army IIUM during the Istiadat Pentauliahan Diraja PALAPES Universiti Awam ke-43, while simultaneously completing his undergraduate studies, stepping into married life, and enrolling in a master’s degree programme with his wife.

Balancing ROTU responsibilities with his undergraduate studies required strict time management.

Naim stressed the importance of discipline and time management, “The key is professionalism. Everyone has the same 24 hours. What matters is how you delegate your time.”

Naim also reminded students that while university is often associated with relationships, academics must remain the priority.

“Your parents sent you to study. Study hard, play hard, but do not mix everything else until you lose focus,” he advised.

Aisyah added that life will be full of distractions, but staying secured to one’s goals is what matters most.

Their first meeting was unexpected and emotional during foundation studies. Naim shared that their years of studying together strengthened their understanding and trust. As they were continuing their master’s together, marriage felt like a natural next step.

Now pursuing their master degree together, the couple planned to continue until PhD and hopes to return to IIUM as academicians.***