Upholding principles of excellence, Sonia Devi Dharmalingam receives UMPSA Srikandi Matahari Award

GAMBANG, 27 October 2024 – Extraordinary potential, sincerity, teamwork, patience, and life experiences have been the keys to success for Sonia Devi Dharmalingam, 24, the recipient of the Srikandi Matahari Award at the 19th Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) Convocation Ceremony.

Hailing from Ipoh, Perak, she considers the challenges she faced throughout her studies as memories that will remain with her for life.

She said that she believes every individual possesses extraordinary potential.

“Therefore, I strive to develop myself continuously—intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.

“I believe that by empowering myself, I can make meaningful contributions to society,” she said.

Sonia Devi Dharmalingam also shared that the most valuable and unforgettable experience during her studies was being selected as one of 24 recipients of the Malaysia grant to attend the 2024 ISPE Annual Conference and Expo.

She said this opportunity came about during her industrial training.

“This experience not only expanded my knowledge in the field of engineering but also gave me a high level of self-confidence.

“I also had the opportunity to interact with leading professionals, present my research findings, and learn from their experiences.

“This experience opened my eyes to the vast opportunities in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries,” she said.

While on campus, she also held several positions in associations and clubs, such as in the Yayasan UMPSA Squad and as the Recreation Exco for PEKA 3.

Sonia Devi Dharmalingam, who completed her Bachelor of Manufacturing Engineering Technology (Pharmaceutical) with Honours at UMPSA, is now working as a Manufacturing Engineer at Boston Scientific in Penang.

The daughter of Malini Ramachandran, 51, and Dharmalingam Vyapury, 54, she shared that she had set a clear target to excel in her studies.

She was also very happy to have achieved the Dean’s List Award for seven consecutive semesters.

She further explained that her elder brother played a significant role in her success.

“He was a source of both moral and practical support when I faced academic pressures.

“In fact, he taught me effective study methods and helped me balance my academic life with co-curricular activities,” she added.

By: Noraini Yusoff, Centre for Corporate Communications

Translation by: Dr.  Rozaimi  Abu  Samah, Faculty   of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology