Tears, Prayers and Triumph: Nor Atirah Amirah’s Journey to Academic Excellence

By, Nursyakeren Mansor

GOMBAK, 12 December 2025: Best Student of Bachelor of Human Sciences in Communication, Nor Athirah Amirah binti Lokman Tee received the HAMKA Award in the sixth session of the 41st IIUM Convocation Ceremony, on 9 December, at the Main Hall of IIUM Cultural Centre (ICC).

Nor Athirah Amirah expressed her feelings that this award is a symbol of every hurdle she overcame throughout her degree journey along with the unwavering prayers she held onto, each challenge turned into a stepping stone toward success.

“Receiving this award is truly an honour and a blessing. It represents not just my effort, but every quiet struggle, every late night, every doa, and every sacrifice made along the way. Personally, it reminds me that Allah never lets hard work go unnoticed, even when the journey feels heavy. This award also symbolizes resilience, gratitude, and the support system that carried me through,” said Nor Athirah Amirah.

She continued, consistency, discipline, and having a lot of faith are the key towards the success she received.

“One thing I always believed in was, never be ashamed to ask. If I didn’t understand something, I would ask my lecturers,” she shared.

She attributed her gratitude to none other than her family, especially her father in this meaningful journey.

Nor Athirah Amirah added, “I dedicate this achievement to my Abah, whose sacrifices and doa shaped every part of my journey. To my late mother, who watches from heaven. To my siblings who are my strength. To my lecturers who guided me with patience and kindness. And to my friends who walked through every challenge with me. This award is not mine alone, it belongs to all of them. I am just the one holding the certificate, but the true credit belongs to all of them. They are my backbone, my comfort, and my reason to keep going.”***