Assalamualaikum. After much anticipation, the day finally arrived for my family and me to journey to Dungun, Terengganu, to accompany my third daughter, Nur Alin Dahlia, affectionately known as Yaya, as she embarks on the next chapter of her education at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in the Diploma in Tourism Management program.

Unlike most of her peers who had already commenced their studies at matriculation colleges, polytechnics, foundation programs, Form Six, or teacher training institutes, the UiTM intake was among the latest. This only heightened our sense of eagerness and preparedness for the occasion.

 The Journey to Dungun

We departed from our hometown of Tanah Merah, Kelantan, on the morning of Saturday, 27 September 2025, at 9:30 a.m. Our route took us through Machang, Pasir Puteh, Besut, Setiu, and Kuala Nerus, before finally reaching Dungun approximately four hours later. Travelling via the LPT2 highway was a blessing, sparing us from what would otherwise have been a much longer journey.

Upon our arrival, we went to the residence of my brother-in-law, Abe Zul, where my nephew handed us the keys to a homestay that had been arranged by another nephew, Zaim. The accommodation, located at Lorong 5, Jalan Melati, was reasonably priced at RM150 per night and provided us with a comfortable place to stay prior to the registration day.  

That evening, the six of us ventured to Sura Gate, where Yaya purchased essential items for her hostel life. We later shared a simple meal at KFC. Though modest, the dinner carried the sentiment of a farewell gathering, as Yaya prepared to spend the next two months at the university before her first mid-semester break at the end of November. 

Registration Day

The following morning, Sunday, we checked out of the homestay and proceeded to UiTM at 8:40 a.m. The campus was only a short drive away, less than four kilometres. Upon arrival, I accompanied Yaya to collect her room key while my wife searched for a suitable parking space. Shortly after, she joined us at Duyung A Residential College, where Yaya would reside. My wife and the children helped carry her belongings into the dormitory, while I settled for parking by the roadside.

The campus grounds were understandably busy, yet the traffic flow was well-coordinated, reflecting the efficiency of UiTM’s management on such an important day. By 10 a.m., the registration process was complete. Before parting, we gathered to take photographs, capturing this memorable milestone.

Yaya is the third daughter to pursue higher education. Her eldest sister, Dalilah, is currently studying at UiTM Shah Alam, while the second, Dalili, is enrolled at KPTM Kota Bharu. With Dalilah also returning to her campus the following week, our home will feel noticeably quieter. Only Dalili will continue returning home each weekend, leaving my wife, our youngest child Imtinan, and myself to keep the household lively during weekdays. 

Reflections on Campus Life

Standing before Duyung A Residential College, I reflected on the importance of a nurturing environment for my daughter’s academic and personal growth. I pray the facilities will be sufficient for her comfort and well-being throughout the semester. Should fortune favour her, she may continue to reside within the college for the following term; otherwise, we will need to seek off-campus accommodation nearby.

As we explored the campus, we passed by the Perhentian Cafeteria. Its worn paint, visible rust, and dull appearance saddened me. It is my hope that the university administration will undertake refurbishment works, for such communal spaces are vital in fostering a vibrant student experience. 

The Journey Home

Before our departure, we stopped at Sri Sura Keropok Shop to purchase local delicacies. Our route home took us along the coastal road, where my wife wished to buy the renowned keropok lekor at Bayu Enterprise, Merang. Its reputation for taste is well-founded, judging by the long queues of eager customers.

We continued our journey until Penarik, where we paused for lunch at a seaside eatery offering fried seafood. The prices were higher than expected, but the experience of dining by the sea was, in itself, memorable. Nevertheless, I could not help but think that preparing such a dish at home would have been more satisfying and economical.

Our travels resumed thereafter, with a stop for prayers at Masjid Tembila, Besut, before safely arriving home at 5:10 p.m. That evening, fatigue soon overtook me, and I retired early to rest from the long but meaningful day.

Closing Thoughts

Thus concluded our family’s journey to Dungun to send Yaya off to UiTM. It was more than a mere trip—it was a cherished family moment, steeped in emotion, reflection, and prayer. I humbly pray that Yaya will adapt well to campus life, remain steadfast in her studies, and ultimately achieve her diploma with excellence. Aamiin.


Update:

Yaya is pictured here with her roommates during Minggu Destini Siswa (orientation week). Interestingly, two of them are also pursuing a Diploma in Tourism Management, just like her.