"From Cake Factory to 9A Achievement" - Miri's Noreen Proves Dreams Are Achievable with Effort

(Miri, 29th) While most peers choose to relax during the holidays, a Form 5 graduate from Miri, Sarawak, chose an extraordinary path by working at a local layer cake factory. She didn’t do it for fun, but to save up for tuition, accumulate social experience, and prove to the world: effort never fails those who persist.

At only 18, Noreen Mohd Hairol achieved excellent results of 9As in the 2024 Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) exam, becoming a source of pride for her school and community. Her story quickly gained attention and inspiration online.

Noreen said, while others chose to rest, she chose to work. She wanted to experience society early, learn independence, and prepare for her future university dream.

During her days at the cake factory, she interacted daily with employees of different ages, learning punctuality, teamwork, communication, and other workplace essentials. She admitted that this was a crucial growth phase for her. She reflected that in the workplace, she learned to respect every role and understood more deeply the hard work her parents put in for the family.

With the release of her results, Noreen is also gradually planning her dream to study abroad. Currently, she is actively seeking scholarships and suitable universities, hoping to further her studies in her field of interest, and in the future give back to society and her hometown Sarawak.

She also doesn't forget to thank her family and teachers who have accompanied and supported her in her educational journey.
 
“Thank you to every teacher, parent, and everyone who believed in me. You gave me the courage to face challenges and steadfastly reach where I am today.”

Noreen's experience proves that background isn't a limitation, it's the attitude that decides the height. She has practically demonstrated the saying "Effort never betrays the result."