For Siti Rukayyah Ibrahim, graduating from the Universiti Kuala Lumpur – Japan Universities Programme (JUP) 2025 is more than just an academic achievement—it’s a family tradition.
The youngest of three siblings, she is following in the footsteps of her two elder sisters by pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering under the same programme.
“They set the example for me to follow. It all started with my eldest sister, who was part of the programme when it was known as the Malaysia-Japan Higher Education Programme (MJHEP). Then, my second sister followed suit. And today, I continue the legacy,” said Siti Rukayyah.
Inspired by her sisters’ journeys and the opportunities the programme provides, she received full support from her parents in choosing this path.
Now, she is among 96 JUP graduates set to embark on the next chapter of their studies in Japan at the end of the month.
She will be furthering her studies at Kagawa University in Advanced Material Engineering.
The JUP Graduation Ceremony, held on 11 March at the Bangi Avenue Convention Centre (BACC), marked this special milestone, with her two sisters, Siti Aminah Ibrahim, 28, and Siti Khadijah Ibrahim, 25, by her side.
Siti Aminah is currently working with a Japanese company based in Malaysia, while Siti Khadijah recently completed her Master’s degree.
Reflecting on her time in the JUP programme, Siti Rukayyah acknowledged the challenges that came with it.
“It was a tough programme, and from the early semesters, I saw many of my friends struggle to keep up.
“Pushing through the difficulties made me stronger, and I’m grateful for the experience,” she shared.
