When a Form 5 non-Malay lad dared to try something different
BY: V SIVAKUMAR
When I was in Form 5, I made a sudden decision that surprised many. Out of nowhere, I felt the urge to take up an additional subject in SPM – Pengetahuan Agama Islam. It was not an easy choice. I had never studied the subject before, not even in Form 4. That meant I had to learn everything from both Form 4 and Form 5 within one year.
I spoke to many of my friends about it. Most of them discouraged me. They said it would be too hard, and I wouldn’t be able to catch up. But one person believed in the idea – Balraj Singh. He supported me and said, “Let’s do this together.” We both decided to meet Ustaz Abu Sammah, the teacher for the subject.
Ustaz was surprised but very supportive. He welcomed us warmly and said he would guide us. He invited us to attend his classes for a few weeks before making our final decision. We went, we listened, and we enjoyed it. The subject covered Al-Quran, Tauhid, Fekah, and Islamic History. It was new to us, but it was also very meaningful and interesting.
After a few weeks, we officially registered the subject for SPM. We continued attending Ustaz’s classes throughout the year. Slowly, we gained confidence and understanding. It became big news in school – two non-Muslim students studying Agama Islam. Teachers were curious. Some even asked why we were doing it. We simply said, “We believe we can do it. We will pass.”
When the trial exams came, both of us did really well. It became even bigger news. Finally, when the actual SPM results were released, we passed the subject with good grades. That result is still printed in my SPM certificate today.
More importantly, that experience helped me understand Islam better – its beliefs, its values, and its beauty. It also taught me an important life lesson: Never be afraid to try something new, especially when it is good for your growth.
Knowing about different religions makes us better people. It builds respect, understanding, and unity. I’m grateful for that decision I made. I’m also grateful to Balraj Singh, my friend who stood by me. I heard he went to the UK for his studies. I hope to hear from him someday.
So to everyone reading this – dare to try something new. Open your mind, open your heart. You never know how one decision can change your life.
V SIVAKUMAR is Batu Gajah MP, DAP CEC member and Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau chairman.