Shah Alam, 5th August 2023 – Abdul Jalil bin Toha @ Tohara, a dedicated Master of Science in Information Management (by Research) student, College of Computing, Informatics, and Mathematics (KPPIM) made the college proud when he received the esteemed Royal Chancellor’s Master of Excellence Award 2022. This prestigious accolade is reserved for students who have showcased remarkable and outstanding achievements in their academic pursuits.

Born on April 25, 1974, in Sabak Bernam, Selangor, as the second of six siblings to Haji Toha @Tohara bin Abdul Karim and Hajah Latipah binti Abdullah. Demonstrating passion and excellence from a young age, Abdul Jalil embarked on his academic journey by assuming the role of a teacher at Sungai Balang Darat National School (1997-2000), and as a Special Education teacher at Orang Kaya Ali National School (2001), both located in Muar. Furthermore, Abdul Jalil expanded his commitment to education by serving as a Library and Media Teacher (GPM) and a Batik Production Operation Skills Teacher (BPO) at the Vocational Special Education High School in Shah Alam, where he made notable contributions from 2004 to 2019. His diverse roles underscore his dedication to both imparting knowledge and fostering practical skills within the educational landscape.

His passion guided him to begin his education at UiTM, where he pursued a Bachelor of Information Management degree from 2001 to 2004. During this time, Abdul Jalil’s dedication and academic prowess earned him not only the Best Student for Program Award but also the Faculty’s Best Student Award at the 60th Convocation in 2004. Following his undergraduate success, Abdul Jalil’s pursuit of excellence led him to the next chapter of his academic voyage. Sponsored by the Ministry of Education and Culture, he was honored with the Federal Training Prize Award (HLP) Sponsorship. This prestigious sponsorship enabled him to advance his studies at the Master’s level, culminating in the attainment of a Master of Science in Information Management (by Research) degree.

Abdul Jalil’s journey was not without its share of challenges. Undertaking his master’s studies amidst the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic posed significant difficulties, particularly impeding his access to resources and data collection pertinent to his research in the field of special education. Undaunted by these adversities, Abdul Jalil displayed remarkable resilience and determination, ultimately triumphing over the hurdles. His remarkable achievements were duly recognized through various accolades, including the Graduate on Time (GOT) Award 2021, the Outstanding Research Award (APC) 2021, and the prestigious Tuanku Chancellor’s Outstanding Scholar Award (ASCTC) in 2022.

As a supplement to his research, Abdul Jalil has contributed to the publication of the article “Exploring Digital Literacy Strategies for Students with Special Educational Needs in the Digital Age” in the Turkish Journal of Computer and Mathematics Education in 2021. He is also the co-author of Diam Yang Lantang: Anthology of Poetry Prose (2020), Poetry Anthology: Meracik Purnama 2019 and the illustrator of Nenek Seri Bukit Cahaya, 2021. In addition, he and his supervisor co-wrote a children’s poetry book with illustrations called Digital Literasi: Dunia Baharu dan Terima Kasih Cikgu. Throughout the two years of study, this writing has served as an art therapy for him.

Abdul Jalil is currently employed as the Principal Assistant Director in the Special Education Sector (Special Unit for Learning Disabilities), Curriculum Development Division, Ministry of Education (MoE) Malaysia in Putrajaya. The world of education and special education has inspired him in life and in service to the community, particularly students with special educational needs. His commendable achievements and the accolades he has received stand as a testament not only to his personal dedication but also to the collective support and prayers of his parents, siblings, main supervisor, co-supervisor, friends, and the Sponsorship Division of MoE. He also expresses profound gratitude to every individual at IPSis UiTM and the College of Computing, Informatics, and Mathematics at UiTM, whose guidance, mentorship, and opportunities have contributed significantly to his journey. Abdul Jalil perceives this accomplishment as a stepping stone, propelling him forward to further scholarly pursuits in the future.

Reflecting on his path, he draws inspiration from his late father’s wisdom, recalling his words that pursuing education, connecting with honorable individuals, excelling in one’s endeavors, and maintaining diligent efforts would lead to enduring success.