A FORMER student of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) tragically lost his life yesterday while escorting his younger sister to register as a new undergraduate at the institution.
Nik Mohamad Syahrul Azzim Nik Yusoff, 29, collapsed while driving near the Sungai Besi toll plaza at approximately 6.30 am, as he and his siblings were en route from Seremban to UPSI in Tanjong Malim.
In a statement issued by the university, UPSI confirmed that Nik Mohamad Syahrul, who graduated from the institution several years ago, was pronounced dead on arrival at Serdang Hospital. A post-mortem revealed the cause of death as sudden cardiac arrest, with no prior symptoms reported.
“In that tense moment, his sister Nik Nur Maisarah Nik Yusoff, 18, who was seated next to him, managed to hold the steering wheel to prevent their vehicle from crashing into the toll plaza. Although the car skidded, she and another sister in the vehicle escaped unhurt,” the statement read.
The deceased's body was later taken to his hometown of Seremban and laid to rest at the Forest High Muslim Cemetery, where family, friends and former university colleagues paid their final respects.
Expressing condolences on behalf of the university, UPSI Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs and Alumni, Professor Dr Norkhalid Salimin, visited the family to offer support.
“Our condolences go out to the family of Nik Mohamad Syahrul. UPSI not only prioritises academic excellence but also places great importance on student welfare and emotional support, especially in situations of loss like this,” he said.
“This tragedy has left sorrow not only with the family but also with the entire UPSI community, who regarded the late alumnus as one of the university’s outstanding graduates,” he added.
The incident has touched hearts across the country, with many reflecting on the selfless final act of a brother who sought only to ensure his sister’s smooth start to university life. - September 29, 2025
