KUALA LUMPUR: National women’s doubles shuttler Thinaah Muralitharan hopes her achievements will inspire young student-athletes everywhere, demonstrating that persistence can lead to both academic and athletic success.
The 26-year-old Olympian, who graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Teaching English as a Second Language) from Open University Malaysia (OUM) yesterday, said that education is just as vital as sports for personal development.
Thinaah, a scholarship recipient, opted for TESL rather than a sports-related course due to her passion for the English language.
“I chose to study TESL because I often travel to countries where English is the primary language.
“Language is very important to me because knowing English makes it much easier to communicate with others,” she said, adding that mastering a language opens up countless opportunities for learning.
In recognition of her outstanding performance in sports and having represented Malaysia at the Olympic Games, Thinaah was also conferred a special sports icon award during OUM’s 28th convocation.
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This award honours students who have made significant contributions to the field of sports while also excelling academically.
When asked about her plans, Thinaah said she would take some time to reflect and discuss with her family before deciding her next steps.
“My family has been my greatest support throughout my educational and sports journeys.
“Not many parents would have supported both pursuits, so I’m glad that they did not deter me from focusing on sports alone in the beginning.
“They knew I would be able to balance both,” she said, adding that the confidence her parents instilled in her has helped shape who she is today.
Her parents, S. Muralitharan Subramaniam and Dr Parimala Devi Kalalingam, expressed pride in her accomplishments.
Number one supporters: Thinaah posing for a picture with her parents after receiving her degree and sports award during OUM’s 28th convocation in Kuala Lumpur. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
“I’m very happy and proud of my daughter. It’s like a dream come true for me to see her receive her degree,” Dr Parimala said.
“She put in so much effort as it was really difficult for her to sit for exams and attend classes, especially when she had to go for tournaments. I was always there to remind her of her exam schedules.”
Thinaah’s younger sister, 25-year-old M. Selinaah, found her ability to juggle studies and training incredibly inspiring.
“Her time management and perseverance are remarkable.
“She deserves every accolade for all her achievements this year alone, from reaching the Olympic semifinals to graduating,” said Selinaah.
At the same ceremony, social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye received an honorary doctorate degree of philosophy in education for his contributions to the field.
He reflected on the significance of the award, emphasising that true learning extends beyond grades to lifelong achievements.
“While many of my peers pursued university degrees after we completed our secondary education, I chose a different path – the school of hard knocks. I am delighted that my contributions as an activist have led to this recognition.
“My advice to all graduates here is to embrace the core values of excellence, discipline, integrity, mutual respect, confidence, openness in communication and humility and put them into practice now and in the future irrespective of what profession you are in,” said Lee.
He added that education is more than just degrees; it’s a lifelong journey of learning, growing and giving.
OUM’s 28th convocation takes place at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur from Oct 26 to 29, with 6,476 graduates set to receive their scrolls.
