Beyond the Classroom: My Study Journey in Malaysia
Beyond the Classroom: My Study Journey in Malaysia
My name is Abukar Abdullahi Abukar, a Somalia student currently pursuing Master of Management at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Graduate School of Management (GSM). I arrived in Malaysia in May 2025 after serving at The Office of the Prime Minister of Somalia. I came on an official study leave to strengthen my managerial and leadership skills, an academic path that holds deep meaning in my family.
IIUM GSM is not a new place for us. Because My uncle, H.E. Mohamed Abukar Zubeyr, now the Somali Ambassador to Russia, graduated from the same program Master of Management I am pursuing today. Similarly, the current Prime Minister of Somalia, H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre, also completed the MMGT program at IIUM. Also, another uncle of mine graduated with a bachelor’s degree from IIUM before completing his master’s at University Putra Malaysia (UPM). Knowing that these inspiring leaders walked the same academic halls motivated me to follow in their footsteps.
IIUM GSM is not a new place for us. Because My uncle, H.E. Mohamed Abukar Zubeyr, now the Somali Ambassador to Russia, graduated from the same program Master of Management I am pursuing today. Similarly, the current Prime Minister of Somalia, H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre, also completed the MMGT program at IIUM. Also, another uncle of mine graduated with a bachelor’s degree from IIUM before completing his master’s at University Putra Malaysia (UPM). Knowing that these inspiring leaders walked the same academic halls motivated me to follow in their footsteps.
Like many international students, the first days in Malaysia were intense. Settling in, navigating procedures, and adjusting to a new environment came with challenges. But everything changed once I met both local and international students during orientation week. Connecting with people from many countries everyday made me feel instantly welcomed.
Studying at IIUM GSM has been academically enriching. Lectures encourage deep analytical thinking and often invite me to share perspectives from Somalia especially in discussions related to management, governance, and development. This made me more engaged in class and confident in contributing to global academic conversations.
Studying at IIUM GSM has been academically enriching. Lectures encourage deep analytical thinking and often invite me to share perspectives from Somalia especially in discussions related to management, governance, and development. This made me more engaged in class and confident in contributing to global academic conversations.
Beyond academics, Malaysia has offered me a peaceful and culturally rich environment. The halal-friendly lifestyle, safety, and warmth of Malaysian people made adapting easy. From discovering traditional Malaysian dishes to exploring historical and modern sites, every moment has contributed to my personal growth.
Coming to Malaysia has been a transformative decision, one that strengthened my ambitions and broadened my worldview. For anyone considering Malaysia as a study destination, it is more than just an academic journey. It is an opportunity to grow, connect, and discover new possibilities in life.
Coming to Malaysia has been a transformative decision, one that strengthened my ambitions and broadened my worldview. For anyone considering Malaysia as a study destination, it is more than just an academic journey. It is an opportunity to grow, connect, and discover new possibilities in life.
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