The Star
From chemo to biology
By N. TRISHA | 9 Oct 2023

New chapter: Khawlah (left) and Aliff Haikal walking towards their dormitories. — KT GOH/The Star

GEORGE TOWN: Life has not been easy for Aliff Haikal Ayob, who was diagnosed with cancer months after his father passed away a decade ago.

“My father had diabetes and other health issues and died suddenly in early 2013.

“Then in May of that year, I was diagnosed with third-stage lymphoma. I was nine then and had to stop school immediately as I needed chemotherapy,” said the 19-year-old.

Aliff said that period was a difficult time for him and his family, adding that the treatment was a painful experience.

“It affected my primary school studies but I managed to catch up,” he said.

Ironically, it was the chemotherapy treatment that ignited his interest in science.

“When a chemo port was inserted, it felt like something was pushing me to study science. I am now pursuing a degree in biology,” said Aliff, who will be starting his degree programme at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

Cancer-free since 2021, he now visits the doctor only once a year.

“I am excited to pursue my degree and hope to work in a lab as I enjoy the environment,” said Aliff, who hails from Alor Setar.

Also joining USM is Khawlah Al Azwar Bah Eak, 19, an Orang Asli from Cameron Highlands who is the first in her family to pursue tertiary education.

Khawlah, who aspires to work for the United Nations, will be starting her degree in Literature (translation and interpretation) at USM.

“I want to be able to provide translation like we see on television. I am the youngest of five, and all my older siblings did not pursue their higher education due to financial constraints.

“My parents were reluctant at first, but when the acceptance letter came, they understood that this was my dream. They told me not to worry about money,” she said.

Khawlah is thankful that USM waived her course fees.

USM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed said some 4,696 candidates have en–rolled for the 2023/2024 intake, with 2,391 falling under the B40 category.

“We have 13 disabled students joining us this year and have the facilities to provide for their needs.

“We now have a ‘first student programme’. They are the first generation in their household to pursue higher education and to help them, we will waive course fees,” he said.