By Amirul Salam Hasan, Corporate Communications Office

For one young woman, arriving at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) to begin her studies represented far more than the start of a new academic year. It marked the fulfilment of a dream once clouded by financial hardship, and the continuation of a journey made possible through UMT’s compassion and support.

Nur Qaira Damia Amir Abdullah, who enrolled in UMT’s Diploma in Fisheries programme for the 2026/2027 academic session, described her admission as a life-changing opportunity for herself and her family. Coming from an asnaf household, she never imagined that pursuing a university education would one day become a reality.

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to study at UMT,” she said. “This opportunity motivates me to keep striving and prove that life’s challenges are not barriers to success.”

Her story had previously attracted media attention, prompting UMT’s senior management to extend assistance to her family. In a gesture reflecting the university’s commitment to student welfare, Vice-Chancellor Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim personally visited her home to provide support and words of encouragement before she embarked on her university journey.

For Nur Qaira Damia, that encouragement became an important source of motivation as she prepared to begin a new chapter in her life.

Reflecting on her experience, Prof. Zamri said UMT is committed to ensuring that access to higher education remains available to students from all backgrounds, regardless of socioeconomic circumstances.

“At UMT, we do not simply produce graduates; we shape future generations capable of leading change,” he said while welcoming students and their families during the registration programme. “Every student has the potential to grow and contribute positively to society, the nation and the world.”

He added that stories such as Nur Qaira Damia’s demonstrate how education, coupled with timely opportunities and meaningful support, can transform lives and create pathways to a brighter future.

A total of 743 new students, out of the 980 offered places for the 2026/2027 academic session, came to UMT to register for the university’s STEM Foundation and Diploma in Fisheries programmes.

Across the campus, registration day was more than a routine administrative exercise. While students completed documentation and collected the keys to their residential colleges, they also took their first steps towards new aspirations, lifelong friendships and future careers.

Among them was 18-year-old Marissa Irdina Mohamad Idris from Kuala Lumpur, who chose UMT’s STEM Foundation Programme because of her ambition to pursue data analytics. She said her decision followed a visit to the university’s booth during the Jom Masuk Universiti education fair, where she learned about the academic opportunities and career prospects available.

“I hope this programme will provide a strong foundation for me to further my studies in data analytics in the future,” she said.

The new intake reflects the continued confidence of students and parents in UMT’s role as a leading institution of higher learning, particularly in science, technology, marine studies and fisheries. More importantly, it underscores the university’s belief that every student deserves not only access to quality education but also the encouragement and support needed to realise their potential.

As the newest members of the UMT community begin their academic journey, they do so in an environment committed to nurturing talent, creating opportunities and empowering future leaders to make meaningful contributions to society.