No words can describe how sad I was a few weeks ago, driving to my hometown, when I received this news. My former undergraduate and master’s student, Tea Jia Xian, has passed away. He was in the first cohort of the Bachelor of Science with Education (Mathematics) with Honours when the programme reopened in 2021 after being frozen for more than 10 years.
He was the only non-Malay student in a cohort of 30. I served as his teaching practicum supervisor, academic advisor, and final-year project supervisor. He received a first-class degree. Although he was qualified to pursue PhD study, he chose to continue with his master’s degree, also under my supervision.
I witnessed his hard work, commitment, and kindness. Sometimes I felt he was more Malay than other Malay students because of his fluency. He wrote his bachelor’s and master’s theses in Bahasa. He also showed excellent adab.
During his master’s, many Chinese students from China approached him for translation or to collaborate on assignments. He received a 4-flat for his master’s and attended the convocation last year. We also published a book together through UTM Press. This book will remind me of you, Tea.
He decided not to pursue his PhD because of financial constraints. He worked at a tuition centre while waiting for his SPP interview this year.
I still remember his last words when we met at his convocation last year. Dr., wait for me! I will find you when I am ready to do my PhD.
Rest in Peace, Tea. You will be missed.
