Disabilities no barrier to SPM success, Kuching special needs candidates prove

KUCHING (April 2): Two special needs candidates have proven that visual and physical limitations are not barriers to achieving excellent results in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination.

Zahra Alireza Nabizadeh Fard Shiraza from SMK Matang Hilir in Padawan and Sharifah Isyha Eldina Elysha Wan Shazali from SMK Sungai Merah in Sibu both achieved outstanding results in the 2025 SPM.

Despite being born with a bone condition that affects her mobility, Zahra showed she could compete on par with other students after scoring an impressive 2A+ and 6A.

“The challenge was not just physical difficulty, but there were times when I felt pain while studying. However, I pushed myself because I believed I could still achieve my dreams.

“I also received support from my parents and friends who constantly helped me throughout my schooling, which made this success possible,” Zahra said when met at the SPM 2025 Appreciation Ceremony with Petronas at the Sarawak State Education Department Auditorium here.

Following her SPM success, Zahra plans to look for employment suitable to her condition while hoping to inspire others facing similar challenges.

“I want to show that even with limitations, we can still succeed,” she added, noting that she also dreams of pursuing a career in law or psychology.

Meanwhile, Isyha Eldina, who has an 80 per cent visual impairment, also proved that her condition did not stop her from excelling after scoring 6A.

For Isyha Eldina, the results she achieved in the 2025 SPM were beyond her expectations, as she had only aimed for moderate results due to the challenges she faced, particularly in Mathematics.

“From Year Five until Form Five, all my learning was done using Braille, including reading and writing. I write using a special typewriter and it takes more time compared to other students.

“So when I got 6A, with an A- in Mathematics, I am still very grateful and happy,” said the youngest of four siblings.

Despite facing various limitations, Isyha Eldina is determined to pursue higher education and hopes to obtain a scholarship.

“I want to succeed and become an inspiration to others, especially persons with disabilities, that they too can achieve success,” she said.