Alumni Relive Student Days as They Celebrate Son’s Graduation at IIUM

By, Afifah Syahmina

GOMBAK, 12 December 2025: A heartwarming scene unfolded during the eighth session of 41st IIUM Convocation as alumni couple, Siti Maryam Md Salleh and Mohd Naufal Omar returned to their alma mater as proud parents witnessing their son’s graduation.

Their son, Akmal Nazim bin Mohd Naufal was conferred a Bachelor of Computer Sciences (Honours) from Kulliyyah of Information and Communication Technology (KICT) at IIUM Cultural Centre (ICC) on 10 December 2025.

Siti Maryam and Mohd Naufal graduated from the AbdulHamid A. AbuSulayman Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences (AHAS KIRKHS) in 1999. Siti Maryam graduated from the Department of Communication while Mohd Naufal graduated from the Department of Political Science.

In an interview with IIUMToday, Siti Maryam and Mohd Naufal were overwhelmed with happiness and sense of fulfilment as they witnessed their son continue their legacy. “I feel proud and nostalgic at the same time,” shared Siti Maryam.

Siti Maryam reminisced about her student days at IIUM. “The moment I stepped onto the campus again, so many memories came flooding back,” she shared with a smile then added, “I remembered queueing from midnight all the way until the morning just to register for subjects and ensure that we can get the best lecturers.”

“Seeing Akmal graduated from the same university feels like a beautiful continuation of our family’s journey and legacy,” said Mohd Naufal. Siti Maryam continued “This university isn’t just part of our family’s story but also the place where the love story between me and my husband began.”

Lastly, as reflecting on their journey, the alumni couple encourage others to consider IIUM as a place for their children to grow academically and morally.

“IIUM offers more than just academic excellence, it shapes character, values and confidence,” said Mohd Naufal. “The Islamic environment creates a unique space where students can grow intellectually and spiritually,” Siti Maryam added. ***