Dr. Siti Hawa Becomes Malaysia’s First SMA Patient to Complete Continuous Studies at One University

Her journey was never simply about earning a degree. It was about refusing to let a physical condition decide how far her dreams could take her.

Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) alumna Dr. Siti Hawa Apandi, 37, has made history after being recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) as the First 'SMA' Patient to Complete Continuous Higher Education Studies From a Single University.

Living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a genetic condition that progressively weakens muscle function, Dr. Siti Hawa completed her higher education journey at UMPSA from diploma level all the way to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Dr. Siti Hawa began her journey at UMPSA in 2007, pursuing her diploma before continuing with her bachelor's degree, Master's in Computer Science (Software Engineering) and eventually her PhD in Computer Science Engineering.

She successfully completed her master's degree in 2016 before achieving her PhD in 2025. Behind that extraordinary journey stood a mother who refused to let her daughter walk the path alone. For more than a decade, Zaidah Tamjis, 64, made the UMPSA residential college her second home, moving in with her daughter when Dr. Siti Hawa began her diploma studies.

Year after year, she remained by her daughter's side, accompanying and supporting her throughout her university journey. While Dr. Siti Hawa carried the weight of her academic challenges, her mother quietly carried another responsibility making sure her daughter had the support she needed to keep moving forward.

Their story is therefore not only one of academic achievement, but also one of a mother's unconditional love and a daughter's unwavering determination. Dr. Siti Hawa was unable to personally don her PhD robe during the 20th UMPSA Convocation Ceremony as her health condition required intensive treatment following complications from a lung infection.

Instead, the award was received by her parents and presented by UMPSA Pro-Chancellor Tan Sri Abi Musa Asa'ari Mohamed Nor at the UMPSA Paya Besar Sports Complex Hall. However, the absence of a graduation robe on her shoulders could never diminish the significance of what she had achieved.

Her determination was eventually recognised at a special ceremony at her residence in Taman Seri Mahkota Aman, Kuantan, where Malaysia Book of Records recognition was formally presented by its official representative, Siti Nurhanim Mohd Noh.

The ceremony also saw UMPSA Vice-Chancellor Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah Alias symbolically dressing Dr. Siti Hawa in a convocation robe, a heartfelt gesture honouring her perseverance, resilience and academic excellence.

Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah described Dr. Siti Hawa's achievement as a source of pride not only for her family, but for the entire UMPSA community.

She said Dr. Siti Hawa had demonstrated that determination and a strong spirit could overcome challenges and physical limitations in the pursuit of knowledge. Her journey, she added, showed that academic excellence is not determined by physical limitations, but by passion, effort and determination.

Dr. Siti Hawa's achievement has also become an inspiration to Malaysians, particularly the disabled community, showing that dreams can still be pursued when individuals are given opportunities, support and access to quality education.

UMPSA also expressed its appreciation to the Centre for Inclusive Technology and Ecosystems (iNKLUSIF Centre), the Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Association of Malaysia, the Department of Student Affairs and Alumni, the Faculty of Computer Science, Dr. Siti Hawa's family, lecturers and everyone who supported her throughout her remarkable academic journey.

From a diploma student in 2007 to a PhD holder in 2025, Dr. Siti Hawa has now added another milestone to her journey, a place in the Malaysia Book of Records.

But perhaps the greatest lesson from her story is not the record itself. It is the reminder that sometimes, the biggest obstacles are not strong enough to defeat a determined heart.

Her journey tells us that a wheelchair may change the way someone moves through life, but it does not have to determine where their dreams can take them.

And behind every extraordinary achievement, there can sometimes be an equally extraordinary love story, like that of a mother who stayed beside her daughter for more than a decade, making sure she never had to face the journey alone.

Dr. Siti Hawa's story is a powerful reminder that education is a right, dreams have no physical boundaries, and with perseverance, family support and an inclusive environment, seemingly impossible journeys can become inspiring realities.

Source : UMPSA