Padang besar: The determination of Lieutenant Leong Keng Yik, a 31-year-old volunteer officer from the 504 Territorial Army Regiment in Bukit Keteri, 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).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Leong, originally from Manjung, Perak, was diagnosed with chondrosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, which had progressed to stage two. This diagnosis came after tests at a private hospital in Perlis, leading to a referral to an orthopaedic specialist in Penang in May 2024. An extensive examination revealed deterioration in a section of his left pelvis due to cancer cells, necessitating immediate surgery on June 20 of last year. At that time, Leong was still in the final semester of his master’s degree.
Leong recounted the initial dismissal of his pain as normal due to his active participation in training exercises with the 504 Regiment Camp. However, the intensifying pain eventually led him to seek medical advice. He shared his experience with reporters after attending the first session of UniMAP’s 20th Convocation Ceremony at Dewan Tuanku Canselor.
The surgery forced Leong to defer his studies, leaving him bedridden for nearly four months. During this period, he struggled with anxiety and insomnia, unable to walk. He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from his family, particularly his parents and elder brother, which helped him through challenging times.
Leong also credited his supervisor, Dr. Muhammad Hasnulhadi Mohammad Jaafar, for being instrumental in his recovery and academic journey. Dr. Muhammad Hasnulhadi’s visits to Penang provided Leong with the inspiration to persevere and continue his studies. He also acknowledged the encouragement from fellow officers of the 504 Regiment Camp, which boosted his motivation and aided in his physiotherapy efforts.
As the Platoon Leader of Alpha Company, 1st Battalion of the 504 Territorial Army Regiment, Leong gradually resumed his studies while undergoing intensive physiotherapy to strengthen the affected area. Although his condition is now stable, he remains cautious about his physical capabilities, particularly concerning his career prospects.
Leong, a UniMAP alumnus with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, regards the completion of his master’s degree as a significant achievement and a gift to his supportive family and friends.