Going far and beyond

Prof Dr Juli Edo Director-general, Orang Asli Development Department Bachelor of Arts, 1985 Masters of Philosophy (Anthropology), 1988

IN 1981, Prof Dr Juli Edo was accepted as UKM’S first Orang Asli anthropology undergraduate. He was initially worried about fitting in but his peers and lecturers welcomed the Semai student with open arms.

“Everyone was supportive, friendly and never judged me based on my background. Back then, students got along well, regardless of race, colour or wealth,” recalled Juli, 60.

One of the most important lessons that I learned on campus was friendship, camaraderie and assimilating with people of different races,” shared the father of four.

Juli was a member of the communications club and anthropology club, and represented UKM in sepak takraw.

He also remembered waking up at 5am for early lectures.

“As a student, I dreaded that particular subject. But it taught me to be more disciplined, dedicated and focused on my education,” said Juli, who also improved his command of English in UKM.

His lecturers, the late Rustam Sani and Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Hood Salleh, were instrumental in encouraging him to pursue his Masters in Anthropology.

“My lecturers were very helpful and supportive. They motivated me to further my studies and research on Orang Asli communities in Malaysia,” said Juli, citing Prof Dr Asiah Sarji as one of his favourite broadcasting lecturers.

After completing his masters in 1988, Juli went on to earn his doctorate at Australia’s National University of Canberra.

“UKM taught me that anyone can soar high if given the opportunity. I would like to congratulate the university for having raised many undergraduates from remote areas. These lucky individuals have managed to come up in life and contribute towards nation-building.” –