At 77, Zulkifly Abdullah defied expectations by earning a Bachelor of Laws degree from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) in Shah Alam, Selangor, on September 4, 2024. His recent accomplishment adds to his earlier academic achievement a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in History from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and demonstrates that age is no obstacle when it comes to pursuing higher education.

Zulkifly, a retired Human Resources officer, began his part-time law studies in 2018 and completed his degree in December last year. His motivation to return to school stemmed from a personal interest in law, influenced by his work in a government ministry where he encountered legal regulations regularly.

When I was working, my focus was on my job, and I didn't consider continuing my education at that time, he shared. After retiring, I decided to go back to school and enrolled at UKM from 2007 to 2011 at age 60. Then, in 2018, I began studying law at UiTM.

He admits that continuing education in his later years brought its own set of challenges. It's common for older people to forget things more quickly, and I have to learn more from younger people, he explained. But that didn't stop me from completing my studies.

Despite the difficulties, Zulkifly expressed gratitude for the support he received from his lecturers and classmates, as well as his family. His son, Mohd Azlan, a lawyer, played a significant role in his educational journey. My son and I often discuss legal matters, and he helps me when I need clarification on certain topics, he said.

Zulkifly, a father of five, believes education is a lifelong pursuit. Age should not prevent anyone from pursuing education. Law requires consistent reading and effort, but if you have the opportunity, continue learning regardless of your age, he advised.

His story serves as a powerful reminder that education knows no age limits, and it's never too late to chase your passions and expand your knowledge.