Active SISPA and StraComm Clique members, two USIM students win Dean's Award

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 AUGUST 2026 —

NILAI — Two students from Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) have been recognized for maintaining outstanding academic performance while actively participating in military training and extracurricular activities. Lieutenant (Cadet) Muhammad Hazim Rosli and Lieutenant (Cadet) Muhammad Amer Aqasha Mahadzir, both 21, received the Dean’s Award after excelling in their Bachelor of Banking and Islamic Finance program at the Faculty of Economics and Muamalat (FEM).

--- BACKGROUND: USIM’S COMMITMENT TO HOLISTIC STUDENT DEVELOPMENT

USIM, a public university in Negeri Sembilan, emphasizes the importance of balancing academic excellence with leadership and character-building activities. Kor SISPA, a uniformed student corps, focuses on civil defense training, including disaster response, fire management, and first aid. Meanwhile, StraComm Clique develops students’ communication and strategic thinking skills. The Dean’s Award recognizes students who achieve academic excellence while contributing to university life through co-curricular and leadership roles.

--- CURRENT DEVELOPMENT: ACHIEVING MILITARY COMMISSIONING DESPITE CHALLENGES

Hazim and Amer Aqasha successfully completed Kor SISPA’s rigorous training, which includes physical and mental challenges, to earn their commissions as officers. Hazim described the journey as demanding, admitting he considered quitting at times due to burnout. However, strong camaraderie within the corps and mutual support helped him persevere.

“There were moments when I felt overwhelmed, but the bonds formed in Kor SISPA kept me going,” he said. He credited disciplined time management for maintaining his academic performance while balancing training and club activities.

Amer Aqasha echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the resilience required to complete the program. He emphasized that the skills acquired—such as emergency response and first aid—are valuable not just in uniformed service but also in everyday life.

“Even as civilians, the knowledge gained can be applied in emergencies,” he said. He now aims to guide future Kor SISPA members and instill the values of discipline and service.

--- MALAYSIA MARKET IMPACT: GRADUATES WITH DIVERSE SKILLS IN DEMAND

The recognition of Hazim and Amer Aqasha reflects a growing trend in Malaysian higher education, where employers increasingly value graduates with a mix of academic excellence, leadership, and practical skills. USIM’s holistic approach aligns with national education policies that encourage students to develop well-rounded competencies beyond academics.

Industries such as Islamic finance, disaster management, and corporate communications—sectors where USIM graduates often enter—prioritize candidates with diverse experiences. The ability to balance multiple commitments demonstrates adaptability, a trait highly sought after in Malaysia’s competitive job market.

--- SECTOR AND COMPANY SPECIFICS: USIM’S ROLE IN ISLAMIC FINANCE AND LEADERSHIP TRAINING

USIM is a key institution in Malaysia’s Islamic finance education, offering specialized programs in Shariah-compliant banking and finance. The university’s collaboration with industry partners, including financial institutions and government agencies, ensures graduates are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Kor SISPA, under the purview of the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), provides students with real-world emergency response training. Meanwhile, StraComm Clique, affiliated with the university’s media and communication faculty, enhances students’ professional development through workshops and industry engagements.

--- OUTLOOK: FUTURE PROSPECTS FOR USIM GRADUATES Hazim plans to pursue a career in Islamic banking and finance but does not rule out future involvement with the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM). Amer Aqasha intends to continue serving in Kor SISPA, aiming to mentor new recruits and promote the corps’ values.

Their success underscores the effectiveness of USIM’s approach to student development, which integrates academic rigor with leadership and service. As Malaysia continues to emphasize holistic education, institutions like USIM play a crucial role in producing graduates who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible and resilient.

Details not yet available on broader institutional impacts or policy changes stemming from this recognition.