SHAH ALAM, July 28, 2026 – Almost five decades have passed, yet their memories as university students remain vividly etched in their minds. Nine alumni from the Diploma in Public Administration (July 1974 – July 1977 intake) recently returned to the Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam campus through the "Sireh Pulang ke Gagang" (Homecoming) program, jointly organized by the UiTM Library Department and the Industry, Community, and Alumni Network (ICAN).
- Nine alumni from the 1974-1977 ITM intake made a nostalgic return to UiTM Shah Alam after nearly 50 years for a special homecoming event.
- Co-organized by the Library Department and ICAN, the event featured the donation of the historical book "Pasir Mas: Memories and Experiences" to the PTAR archives.
- The gathering highlighted the enduring bond between the alumni and the university, proving that campus memories and friendships last a lifetime.
Joy and excitement were clearly visible as they stepped foot onto the campus they had left nearly 50 years ago—back when the institution was still known as the MARA Institute of Technology (ITM). The return was not merely a campus tour; it was a heartfelt journey down memory lane, reminiscing about the beautiful friendships and foundational experiences that shaped their lives.
The alumni expressed their deep gratitude for the warm welcome and deep appreciation shown by UiTM. Although the physical landscape of the campus has transformed significantly, their bond with their beloved alma mater remains unbroken, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of "True Friends, Eternal Memories."
A major highlight of the homecoming program was the official handover of the book titled "Pasir Mas: Memories and Experiences," alongside personal alumni files and records, to the Tun Abdul Razak Library (PTAR) to be preserved as part of the institution's historical archives.
The 565-page book is a rich compilation of memoirs, history, and life experiences of the Pasir Mas community, told through the perspectives of over 60 native residents. It beautifully documents the socio-cultural development, historical heritage, and local prominent figures that shaped the identity of Pasir Mas, ensuring this legacy is passed down to future generations.
The handover was gracefully officiated by YBhg. Datuk Salmah Hayati binti Ghazali as the alumni representative, accompanied by Mr. Salman bin Ahmad, the author of the book. The historical materials were received by Mr. Ahmad Amiri bin Mohamad, Director of the University Archives Division, on behalf of PTAR.
The event was further enlivened by a symbolic souvenir presentation from ICAN, represented by Ts. Dr. Fatimah Zaharah Ali, followed by an eAlumni registration briefing designed to continuously strengthen the relationship between the alumni and the university.
The nine alumni who successfully rekindled their nostalgic memories during this gathering are:
- YBhg. Datuk Salmah Hayati Ghazali
- Encik Salman bin Ahmad
- Encik Mohd Sharid Salleh
- Puan Norharjah Kamaruddin
- Puan Siti Aishah Yahaya
- Puan Maimon Rahman
- Puan Nor Hasnah Hassan
- Puan Ramlah Jaafar
- Puan Norhayati Ahmad
This heartwarming program beautifully proves that while time can change the face of a campus, it can never erase the memories, friendships, and profound love for the institution where they once sought knowledge.
