Daily Express Subscriber
Sign in to your account.

Kota Kinabalu: Jubilant cheers filled the hall as 100 graduates from Almacrest International College (AIC) and Almacrest Global Skills Centre (AGSC) received their scrolls at the convocation ceremony last Thursday.

In congratulating the graduates, Chairman of AIC’s Board of Governors, Dato’ Dr Mohd Yahya bin Nordin, urged them to keep upgrading themselves with new knowledge, skills and technologies to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.

“To succeed, stand out and stay relevant, it is crucial for graduates to continuously equip themselves with critical thinking, digital literacy, leadership, creativity and the ability to work with others. These skills will open doors that academic qualifications alone cannot,” he said.

Mohd Yahya, who was also the Guest of Honour, conferred the scrolls to AIC and AGSC graduates in an official ceremony witnessed by their families, loved ones and friends.

Clinching the Best Student Award were Nurul Fatihah binti Resman, who graduated from AIC with a Diploma in Accountancy, and Merry Floriani Majunja, who earned a Malaysia Skills Certificate Level 4 in Early Childhood Education after completing her academic journey with AGSC.

For Merry Floriani, AGSC’s top student, the convocation was a moment of gratitude. 

“I deeply value Almacrest Global Skills Training Centre for their commitment to equip us with knowledge and practical skills that is relevant to the demands of industry,” she said.

Meanwhile, Nurul Fatihah reflected on her journey from the first day she stepped into the college, admiring the photographs of high achievers. “Never did I imagine that one day I would stand here carrying the same honour.

This memory taught me something I will hold on to forever: we must never underestimate our own potential,” she said.

Speaking at AIC’s 13th and AGSC’s 5th Convocation Ceremony, Mohd Yahya underlined the importance of learning, adapting and innovating – qualities essential for graduates as they navigate an ever-evolving global landscape shaped by technology and new systems replacing old ways of working.

“This world is not something to fear, but to embrace. As graduates, you are stepping into a world filled with opportunity, and your ability to learn, adapt and innovate will be your greatest strength,” he added.

He reiterated that employers today are seeking graduates who can adapt, problem-solve and provide meaningful contributions that drive progress and create value in their organisations.

Adding to the celebration, Almacrest Group Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Yen Chung Wai reminded graduates that education is a lifelong journey that shapes not only intellect but also identity and values. 

“True education goes beyond academic achievements. It equips you with the skills and integrity needed for the future,” she said.

She acknowledged the role of families and faculty in supporting the graduates’ success, noting that their sacrifices and mentorship had instilled perseverance and honesty. 

Stephanie also highlighted Almacrest’s commitment to community service, citing student involvement in CSR initiatives such as food donations to children’s homes and a cleanup at Kampung Tanjung Aru Lama where 4.2 tons of trash were collected.

“In a world that is constantly changing, your integrity will be your compass. Carry with you the values you have learned at Almacrest – honesty, responsibility, empathy and perseverance. 

“Strong character grounds who you are, and actions define what you become,” she said, congratulating the Class of 2025 and urging them to go forward and make the institution proud.

Among the recipients of Academic Excellence Awards were Krisshealda Tongouk @ Kaling Ardy Simeon, who graduated with a Diploma in Office Administration; Al Shamiel bin Naviuno, Nur Qhairunniza binti Abdullah, Nurul Fatihah Resman and Nur Qyadieja binti Nasir, who graduated with Diplomas in Accountancy; and Yvonne Nevrah Yonex, Amelia Natasha Samsun and Ernawati binti Amsarudin, who graduated with Diplomas in Early Childhood Education.

The ceremony was also attended by Centre Manager of Almacrest Global Skills Centre, Matthew Yen Muk Yew.