For Zaim Iskandar bin Husni, having a learning difficulty should not deter someone from achieving their aspirations and goals. In fact, he strongly believes that with patience and determination, anyone, even those with ‘limitations’, can be successful.
Zaim Iskandar bin Husni was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of nine.
Diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of nine, Zaim shared that he struggled immensely during his kindergarten and early primary school years before he or his parents realised he had a learning difficulty.
“It was hard for me to adapt. I recall struggling a lot when my classmates and I had to take down notes while the teacher wrote on the blackboard. The words seemed to jump around the board while some letters even appeared backwards, upside down or bunched together,” he said.
Zaim shared that his teachers then were also not trained in identifying learning difficulties, which made it harder for him to receive the necessary support he needed for his education.
He revealed that it wasn’t until he underwent an assessment and diagnosis performed by a child psychologist, did he then enrol into a dyslexia centre where he picked up learning methods more suited to him. After spending a few months with the centre, Zaim re-entered primary school to continue with his education, which unbeknown to him at the time, would still remain difficult.
“I had to endure being bullied by my classmates and peers. This was one of the hardest experiences for me while I was at school,” opened up the 23-year-old.
Zaim, who is a fan of Formula 1 and automobiles, is photographed here at the 2019 BMW launch.
Despite the bullies and challenges, Zaim said that he also had some good times during his young life, including being around kind people who have helped him become the person that he is today.
“My parents are the backbone to my success. They have showered me with unconditional love and support, and they continuously encourage me to persevere through difficulties,” he shared.
“I also have an amazing set of friends and siblings who remain my biggest supporters too!” added the enthusiastic student, who is currently pursuing his Diploma in Hotel Management at INTI International College Subang (INTI).
When recounting his experiences throughout the pandemic, Zaim shared that it was tough for him to adapt to fully online classes. He was particularly sad that he was unable to physically interact or exchange ideas with his friends and lecturers as a result of the pandemic. In spite of it, he felt very fortunate to have supportive lecturers at INTI who were committed to helping him succeed academically.
“Since I began my studies at INTI, my lecturers have been very helpful, patient and dedicated. They have never given up on me and their tireless commitment has inspired me to continue learning,” he expressed.
Zaim continued, “I also appreciate that INTI has offered me time extensions during examination periods as part of their best practices to support students with learning difficulties or special needs.”
Currently in the final year of his diploma, Zaim shared that he intends to either pursue his degree next or secure an employment opportunity once the movement control orders are relaxed. His ultimate dream is to manage his own chain of hotels and he is determined to make it happen.
“There are many great people who have gone on to do great things in this world, despite suffering from learning difficulties like dyslexia. Albert Einstein, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Muhammad Ali, Sir Richard Branson, and Jamie Oliver are a few. From Malaysia we have Captain James Anthony Tan who was the first Malaysian to fly solo around the world in 2013,” conveyed Zaim.
“If they can overcome the odds to pursue their dreams, so can I,” he said.