From MRSM To Imperial College London, MARA Paves Aaqif’s Path To International Stage

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 24 (Bernama) -- Starting out as a student at MARA Science Junior College (MRSM) Tun Ghafar Baba in Melaka, Muhammad Aaqif Dino Faezal is now set to pursue his studies at Imperial College London in the United Kingdom, a journey he described as made possible by the educational opportunities provided by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA).

Muhammad Aaqif, 19, who was named the 2026 MARA College Graduate Icon on Aug 20, said MARA’s support opened doors that might otherwise have been difficult to reach, particularly by enabling him to pursue an international-standard education at Kolej MARA Banting (KMB).

The second of three siblings, who received sponsorship under MARA’s Young Talent Development Programme (YTP) to pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) at KMB from 2024 to May 2026, said the opportunity was a significant milestone in his educational journey.

“Realistically, I would not have been able to afford the cost of studying and living abroad, which is undoubtedly high.

“Therefore, the opportunity provided by MARA not only opened the door for me to pursue my aspirations, but also removed one of the biggest constraints I might have faced,” he told Bernama.

As a result of his hard work and the educational support provided by MARA, Muhammad Aaqif will pursue a degree in Geology at Imperial College London this September, with plans to use the experience and expertise he gains to contribute to Malaysia, particularly in the oil, gas and energy sectors.

While at KMB, he received the KMB Best Graduate Award and the Co-curricular Icon Award at the MARA Professional College and MARA College Inspiration Awards Day.

The recipient of the 2026 MARA College Graduate Icon Award is selected from among the Best Graduate Award recipients based on outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, contributions to society and potential to become a MARA graduate icon.

For Muhammad Aaqif, the recognition was not merely a personal achievement, but also a tribute to his family, teachers, friends, KMB and MARA, which have been part of his educational journey.

“I was deeply moved when I received the award as it made me reflect on all the challenges, sacrifices and support I have received,” said the Selangor-born student.

At KMB, Muhammad Aaqif focused not only on academics but was also actively involved in leadership as president of the Students’ Representative Council (MPP), while participating in various co-curricular and community activities.

He said the experience helped build his self-confidence, leadership skills and time-management abilities, ultimately preparing him to compete at the international level.

Meanwhile, KMB director Arfaseela Amir said Muhammad Aaqif’s success reflected the holistic excellence that MARA seeks to instil among its students, as he not only scored 44 out of 45 points in the IBDP examination last May, but also excelled in leadership and co-curricular activities.

“He not only led, but was also able to foster a spirit of teamwork and serve as an effective intermediary between the management and students.

“This development reflects KMB’s aspiration to produce human capital that is not only intellectually capable, but also possesses strong character,” Arfaseela said.

-- BERNAMA