KENINGAU: A modest family background did not prevent two young graduates from Semporna and Tuaran from achieving success after they received the top awards at the 2026 Convocation Ceremony of the Sabah Institute of Islamic and Dakwah Studies (IPDAS).
Norasimah Abdul Wahid, 21, from Semporna, the youngest of four siblings, received the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah Gold Medal Award.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Nazhrin Syahezam Bogrin, 20, from Tuaran, an only child, received the Sabah Chief Minister’s Award.
Both came from modest families, with their respective parents working as labourers and factory workers. However, their circumstances did not dampen their determination to pursue education and excel.
Norasimah said her achievement was the result of her efforts to excel not only academically but also in co-curricular activities, leadership and character.
“The factors that enabled me to receive this award were excellence in academics, co-curricular activities, leadership and character,” she said when met after the ceremony.
For Mohammad Nazhrin, his success in receiving the Sabah Chief Minister’s Award was attributed to the continuous prayers and support of his parents, family members, lecturers and friends.
“I am grateful to have achieved this success through the prayers of my parents, family members, all my lecturers and friends.
“I hope this award can become an inspiration to others out there who are like me,” he said.
Norasimah and Mohammad Nazhrin were among 338 graduates honoured at the 2026 IPDAS Convocation Ceremony held at Tun Sakaran Hall, IPDAS, Keningau.
The ceremony was officiated by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah Musa Aman.