KUALA LUMPUR, June 12 — Ummi Annur Syahmina Sohaini, the first Malaysian hijabi woman cadet to be accepted into a prestigious service academy in the United States (US) this year, wants to be the best example of a young patriotic Muslim woman in achieving her life ambition.

The 20-year-old National Defence University Malaysia (UPNM) student, who wants to be a fighter jet pilot in the future, will soon depart for the US Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado where she will further her studies in Operation Research and Data Science.

"I am surprised to know the fact that I’m the first hijabi woman from the country to be selected but here is where I highly believe there’s a need for me to show the best example of my own faith being a young, patriotic Muslim woman.

"This is the path that I’ve anticipated and chosen to be, and I am ready to begin the journey wholeheartedly. I am absolutely proud to present the country with what I’ve achieved and learned, and now ready to contribute with high interests and blessings (prayers) from many.”

Ummi spoke to Bernama after a ceremony held recently at the United States (US) Ambassador to Malaysia’s residence to celebrate her admission to the academy, together with compatriot Muhammad Faidh Izzuddin Mat Sahari who will attend the US Military Academy at West Point in New York.

"Here I would like to express my gratitude to the US academy that approved my appearance with hijab to be there, and this has boosted my interest to strive for my best there.

"I might experience a little culture shock, but I am determined to quickly adapt to the situation with much guidance and support, and the prayers that I will continuously receive from dearest family members and friends,” said Ummi Annur Syahmina, who is also the first in the family to serve in the military.

Speaking particularly on her interest to pursue Data Science as her core subject at the academy, she said it is a skill and knowledge in high demand in the global world today.

"I love Mathematics and Information Technology (IT) subjects so much. When it comes to Data Science, I personally feel it is a must for me to learn it better and greater from the academy to enhance my knowledge.

"At least my selection to the US academy shows the path to many youngsters and students out there that the field study of Data Science is vast and has a higher chance of employability.

"With the growing demand even in the military surroundings, I am confident this particular core subject will help me towards becoming a fighter pilot with the Royal Malaysian Air Force,” said Ummi Annur Syahmina who hails from Port Dickson, a small army town south of Kuala Lumpur.

Ummi Annur Syahmina and Muhammad Faidh were chosen after a rigorous selection process evaluating their leadership potential, physical fitness, and academic achievements.

According to the official website of the US Embassy in Malaysia, thousands of young men and women compete for admission into US Service Academies globally and only 10 per cent are selected.

This year, 89 countries were invited to nominate candidates with the goal of enrolling 15 foreign students in each of the service academies this year, it noted.

There are currently eight cadets from Malaysia in the US Service Academies — two at the US Military Academy (West Point, New York), three at the US Naval Academy (USNA), and three at the USAFA.

Both Ummi Annur Syahmina and Muhammad Faidh will graduate from their respective academies in 2027. — Bernama