Paralysis Not Stopping Muhammad Hafizuddin From Moving Forward

IPOH, Aug 26 (Bernama) -- Muhammad Hafizuddin Mohd Yamin, who was paralysed from the waist down after a motorcycle accident last year, has not lost hope in life, even as he remains uncertain about his ability to pursue a career in the automotive field.

Today, the 22-year-old received a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) and a Special Industry Award from Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad at the Ungku Omar Polytechnic 52nd Convocation Ceremony here.

Wheelchair-bound Muhammad Hafizuddin shared that he currently has no specific plans for his future apart from focusing on his personal well-being.

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“I’m still undergoing rehabilitation and Perkeso (Social Security Organisation) has already reached out to explain my options. They’ve given me time to adjust before looking for a suitable job.

“My ambition before this turn of events was definitely a career in the automotive field. However, given my current situation, I’m still figuring out which areas I can excel in with my disability,” said the second of the three siblings.

Adding to the significance of the day, Saarani came down from the main stage to present the diploma to Muhammad Hafizuddin, who is also a four-time recipient of the Head of Department Award (AKJ).

Reflecting on the accident, he said it occurred on Oct 6 last year, shortly after he had completed his studies.

The crash resulted in a fractured spine and spinal cord injury, leaving him unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair.

Meanwhile, Zawiyah Demanis, 60, accepted a posthumous diploma on behalf of her late son Ahmad Hirfan Shahrir, who died on April 4 due to synovial sarcoma cancer (tumour in the lungs).

Zawiyah recalled her son’s deep passion for the automotive field and his dreams of studying in France or Japan.

“He was really interested in the automotive field; that was his ambition. If we had any questions about cars, we always turned to him. His knowledge and talent in the field were remarkable,” she said.

Today’s ceremony saw 495 graduates from the Department of Mechanical Engineering receiving their scrolls.

The convocation will continue until Thursday, with 1,748 graduates set to receive their diplomas, bachelor’s degrees and special skills certificates across 20 fields of study.

-- BERNAMA