From track to lecture hall, Sukma sprint queen Izzatul Musfirah has no time to waste

The Diploma in Sports Science and Recreation programme, first offered by Kolej Universiti TATI in 2025, is attracting athletes from Terengganu and other states.

KUALA TERENGGANU: Fresh from her surprise triumph as the sprint queen of the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Selangor, Izzatul Musfirah Ahmad Kamal Azira has wasted little time in taking the next step – turning her attention to higher education while preparing for the professional ranks.

Barely had the curtain fallen on Sukma when the 18-year-old athlete enrolled at Kolej Universiti TATI (UC TATI) in her home state to pursue a Diploma in Sports Science and Recreation, with classes set to begin next month.

“Undeniably, there were other options for me to continue my studies, either locally or abroad, but choosing an institution that can support my sporting career is my main priority,” said Izzatul Musfirah, formerly of SMK Haji Abdul Rahman Limbong, Kuala Terengganu, who scored 9As in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination.

Her decision was welcomed by UC TATI Rector Professor Dr Hairul Azhar Abdul Rashid, who said the institution’s inclusive approach towards full-time and part-time athletes allows them to complete their studies within the expected period without deferring their education because of sporting commitments or training camps.

“Recently, several athletes who were also UC TATI students managed to complete their studies before the Selangor Sukma began. Some were among the medal winners. This sets a benchmark not only for the athletes but also for us at UC TATI,” Hairul Azhar said.

“We understand the demands placed on athletes, who need to make a strong commitment to balance their training schedules with their classes. Therefore, the study system at UC TATI is structured around the needs of athletes pursuing their studies here.”

Gold medallist Muhammad Shah Jeh’an Syamsul Bahri and Muhammad Fahrin Aiman Yusmizan, who created a sensation by winning two gold medals in the 5,000m and 3,000m events, were among the UC TATI students who completed their studies before Sukma began.

The Diploma in Sports Science and Recreation programme, first offered by UC TATI in 2025, is attracting athletes from Terengganu and other states.