by: Ahmad Junaidi bin Ahmad Hadzmy
Puan Zarah is a chef, an entrepreneur, and most importantly, a mother. Hailing from Lawas, she currently runs Syarikat Waja Jaya in UNIMAS’s Pre-University, where she sells food. When asked why she is still working despite being 70 years old and a grandmother to 15 grandkids, she said:
“I am doing this business not for the money. I am doing this to help students who are in need. I want to make sure that they have food to eat, and that’s why I sell food at a reasonable price.”
With over 30 years of working experience, Puan Zarah’s biggest accomplishment isn’t her work or her business; it’s the fact that she has raised four children who are all successful individuals, two of whom studied at UNIMAS during both their undergraduate and graduate years.
“I take pride in raising my kids. My husband died 15 years ago, and being a single mother is tough. But my children are my pride and joy, and Alhamdulillah, they’ve turned out to be successful.”
She also stressed to her children not to easily give up when facing challenges.
“I have always believed in the power of hard work. Life is not easy, and yes, there are times when we want to give up, but what is life without a bit of a challenge?” she said with a smile on her face.
When asked what advice she would give to the younger generation, her words were simple and direct:
“Study hard, do not be lazy, and chase your dreams.”
Puan Zarah’s story is a testament to a mother’s strength, determination, and perseverance, wanting the best not only for her children but for everyone she welcomes into her life.
