Mini bus and 555 notebooks

Datuk Dr Hussamuddin Yaacub Chairman, Karangkraf Group Bachelor of Economics, 1978

IN 1974, I enrolled in UKM to study economics. Back then, the Economics faculty was located at Jalan Pantai Baru in Kuala Lumpur, and I stayed at Kolej Yayasan Pelajaran Mara in Bangsar.

Some of my lectures were held at Kolej Islam Malaysia (now International Islamic University Malaysia) in Section 17, Petaling Jaya. For reference books, we could use Universiti Malaya’s library.

As my classes were at different locations, I had to shuttle via the famous BMW (Bas Mini Wilayah). The biggest problem was my BMWS were never on time!

Along the way, I learned to manage my time. University life taught me how to live independently.

I also had to survive with little money. For cheaper meals, I frequented the food stalls around Kampung Haji Abdullah Hukum along Jalan Bangsar. Since I was so poor, my meals were on credit, recorded in Buku 555. Thinking back, I am grateful the stall owners never demanded for money when I was broke.

Even though times were hard, I never complained.

My university life was happy because my course mates were helpful. Everyone was much more trusting and accommodating. It was more multiracial, and everyone knew each other.

Another beautiful memory was the fellowship that I had with lecturers. I could go to their room and consult them when I neede dh elp. The bond was strong between lecturers and students.

I am honoured to be one of UKM’S first graduates. I have watched it develop from a small university to a sprawling campus. The university has done well, and contributed so much to the nation.