by: Dr Kiky Kirina binti Abdillah
edited by: Ahmad Junaidi bin Ahmad Hadzmy
Photos by: Fitzpatrick anak Ricky Guing
In conjunction with this year’s Women’s Day celebration, we interviewed 5 remarkable women about the challenges they face as a woman in their field, what inspires them and their advice to other women who are chasing their dreams.
When I was appointed as the first female dean at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities and the youngest ever in this role at UNIMAS, I faced the daunting task of managing the diverse needs and expectations of faculty members. Everything about faculty management was new to me, and balancing academic excellence with administrative responsibilities proved to be more complex than anticipated. However, the unwavering support of my colleagues and the top management at UNIMAS, led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Hata Abdul Rasit, played a pivotal role in helping me overcome these challenges. Their mentorship, patience, and willingness to guide me were invaluable.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Hata Abdul Rasit, along with all the Deputy Vice Chancellors of UNIMAS, have been my biggest inspirations and mentors. Their leadership, vision, and dedication to academic excellence have greatly influenced my journey. Through their guidance, I have gained valuable insights into university management, policy implementation, and the importance of fostering a conducive environment for teaching, learning, and research. Their commitment to innovation and community engagement continues to inspire me in my own role.
I envision a society where more policies and initiatives actively support women’s career advancement in academia. Mentoring, leadership training, and work-life balance policies are crucial. Ensuring equal opportunities in leadership positions and research funding, along with fostering an inclusive and respectful academic culture where women’s voices are valued and included in decision-making processes, will lead to a more equitable environment.
Reflecting on my journey, one year is not enough to truly measure whether I have achieved what I envisioned for the faculty. There’s still so much I want to do. Every time I step into my office and see my picture alongside the esteemed former deans, I am reminded of the immense responsibility I carry. It is truly an honour to have been entrusted by UNIMAS top management to lead the FSSH, knowing they believe in me. That belief empowers me to give my best every day and strive to make a meaningful impact on my faculty and the university.
To young women starting their careers or personal journeys, my advice is to believe in yourselves and never underestimate your potential. Seek out mentors who can guide and support you, and don’t be afraid to take on leadership roles or new challenges. Stay resilient in the face of setbacks and always keep learning and growing. Most importantly, surround yourself with a strong support network, and remember that your voice and contributions are valuable.
