LEONG OVERCOMES BONE CANCER TO COMPLETE MASTER'S DEGREE AT UNIMAP

ARAU, Nov 22 (Bernama) -- The determination of Lieutenant Leong Keng Yik, a 31-year-old volunteer officer from the 504 Territorial Army Regiment in Bukit Keteri, near Padang Besar, has been truly inspiring.

Despite being diagnosed with bone cancer last year, he persevered with his studies and has completed his Master of Science in Manufacturing Engineering at Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP).

The Manjung, Perak-born officer, was diagnosed with chondrosarcoma, a type of bone cancer that had already progressed to stage two after undergoing tests at a private hospital in Perlis before being referred to an orthopaedic specialist at a private hospital in Penang in May 2024.

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A thorough examination showed that a section of the bone structure in his left pelvis had deteriorated due to cancer cells, and he was advised to undergo immediate surgery on June 20 of last year, while he was still in the final semester of his master's degree.

"I initially thought the pain was normal since I had been actively training and participating in the exercises organised by the 504 Regiment Camp. However, when the pain intensified to the point where I couldn't squat or sleep at night, I realised something was wrong," he told reporters after the first session of UniMAP's 20th Convocation Ceremony held at Dewan Tuanku Canselor today.

Leong said the surgery resulted in his studies being deferred, and he was bedridden for nearly four months, unable to walk and struggling with anxiety and insomnia throughout his recovery.

"My mental state crumpled during this time...and I was worried about my studies and finances. However, I am grateful that my family never left my side. My father, Leong Ton Chew, 68, my mother, Low Gaik Choo, 67, as well as my elder brother and sister-in-law, provided me with tremendous support during those difficult days,” he said.

Leong also expressed gratitude to his supervisor, Dr Muhammad Hasnulhadi Mohammad Jaafar, whom he described as a key individual who helped him rise again and continue his studies.

"Dr Muhammad Hasnulhadi was willing to travel all the way from Perlis to Penang to visit me. When I saw my supervisor go to such lengths to support me, I felt I couldn't give up. From that moment, I was inspired to rise again.

"Other volunteer officers from the 504 Regiment Camp also took the time to visit me at home and offered words of encouragement. I was deeply moved, and because of that, my motivation was boosted, and it inspired me to work harder in physiotherapy to strengthen my muscles," he said.

Leong, who serves as Platoon Leader, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion of the 504 Territorial Army Regiment, said he resumed his studies gradually after regaining the ability to walk, while undergoing intensive physiotherapy to strengthen the bones, muscles, and nerves around the operated area.

"My condition is now stable, and the implant fits well. I need more time to strengthen my muscles. I'm worried about work later. I'm afraid I might not be able to stand or walk for long periods. But I will keep trying," he said.

A UniMAP alumnus with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree in 2019, Leong said completing his master's degree is the greatest gift for his family and friends, who have been his backbone since the day he fell ill.

-- BERNAMA