Big dreams: Ummi Annur Syahmina wishes to conquer the sky in a fighter jet. – Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: Ummi Annur Syahmina Sohaini (pic), the first Malaysian hijabi woman cadet to be accepted into a prestigious military academy in the United States this year, wants to be the best example of a young patriotic Muslim woman who achieves her life ambition.
The 20-year-old National Defence University Malaysia student, who wants to be a fighter pilot, will soon depart for the US Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado, where she will further her studies in Operations Research and Data Science.
“I am surprised to know that I’m the first hijabi woman from the country to be selected, but here is where I highly believe I need to show the best example of my faith as a young, patriotic Muslim woman.
“This is the path that I’ve anticipated and chosen to be on, and I am ready to begin the journey wholeheartedly. I am proud to present the country with what I’ve achieved and learned, and I look forward to contributing.”
Ummi Annur Syahmina spoke to Bernama after a ceremony held at the US Ambassador to Malaysia’s residence to celebrate her admission into the academy recently, together with compatriot Muhammad Faidh Izzuddin Mat Sahari, who will attend the US Military Academy at West Point in New York.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the US academy that approved my appearance in a hijab, which has boosted my interest to strive for my best there.“I might experience a little culture shock, but I am determined to adapt to the situation with much guidance and support,” said Ummi Annur Syahmina, who is also the first in the family to serve in the military.
Speaking particularly about her interest in pursuing data science as her core subject at the academy, she said it is a skill and knowledge that is in high demand in the world today.
“I love mathematics and information technology (IT) so much. When it comes to data science, I feel that it is a must for me to learn it to enhance my knowledge.“At least my selection to the academy shows the path for many youngsters and students out there that the field of data science is vast and has a high chance of employability.
“With the growing demand even in military surroundings, I am confident that this particular core subject will help me towards becoming a fighter pilot with the Royal Malaysian Air Force,” said Ummi Annur Syahmina, who is from Port Dickson.
Ummi Annur Syahmina and Muhammad Faidh were chosen after a rigorous selection process evaluating their leadership potential, physical fitness and academic achievements.
According to the official website of the US Embassy in Malaysia, thousands of young men and women compete for admission into US Service Academies globally and only 10% are selected.This year, 89 countries were invited to nominate candidates to enrol 15 foreign students in each of the service academies.
There are currently eight cadets from Malaysia in the US Service Academies – two at the US Military Academy (West Point, New York), three at the US Naval Academy, and three at the USAFA.
Both Ummi Annur Syahmina and Muhammad Faidh will graduate from their respective academies in 2027.
