Imagine achieving your PhD at 60! Dr. Lee Heng Liang did just that, proving that age is truly just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams. Her story is a powerful reminder that learning is a lifelong journey, and it's never too late to embark on a new academic adventure. But what drove her to take on such a challenge later in life? Let's dive into the inspiring story of Dr. Lee and her incredible journey at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).
On November 16th, in Johor Bahru, Dr. Lee Heng Liang, AMN, proudly graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Management at the remarkable age of 60. This achievement makes her an inspiring figure within UTM, demonstrating that age should never be considered a barrier to academic success. Dr. Lee's unwavering commitment to education serves as a powerful example for all of us.
For Dr. Lee, the decision to pursue a PhD wasn't a spur-of-the-moment choice; it was the culmination of deeply held values that she's nurtured throughout her life. She had three key motivations: first, to challenge herself and achieve higher levels of academic and personal growth. Second, she wanted to inspire her children and nephews to pursue advanced education, setting an example of lifelong learning within her family. And third, perhaps most significantly, she aimed to contribute meaningfully to an area that she felt was understudied: Malaysia's indirect taxation system. "It expands our understanding of the world, and that knowledge becomes a source of empowerment," she wisely stated.
And this is the part most people miss... Dr. Lee's extensive practical experience significantly shaped her research. With over 33 years of dedicated service in the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, she was directly involved in the implementation of critical tax policies, including SST Version 1.0, the Goods and Services Tax (GST), and SST Version 2.0. This in-depth, hands-on experience naturally steered her towards focusing her research on the Sales Tax and Service Tax (SST) system. "Previous studies show a limited amount of research on SST in Malaysia, revealing gaps and opportunities for improvement," Dr. Lee explained, highlighting the importance of her work. Her applied research is designed to provide practical insights that can guide the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) and policymakers in enhancing compliance and ultimately strengthening Malaysia’s taxation landscape. Consider the potential impact of someone with decades of experience shaping policy and then using that experience to improve the system - that's powerful!
Undertaking a PhD at a later stage in life certainly comes with its own unique set of challenges. While Dr. Lee acknowledged that her physical agility might not be what it once was, she firmly believes that the mental and emotional hurdles have far less to do with age and far more to do with one's internal drive and determination. "What truly determines our progress is our personal motivation and the goals we set for ourselves," she emphasized. It's a powerful reminder that mindset is often the biggest determinant of success.
Throughout her years of dedicated study, Dr. Lee held onto a simple yet incredibly powerful piece of advice: "Pray to God and never give up." This mantra served as her anchor, keeping her grounded and focused, especially during those inevitable periods of exhaustion, self-doubt, and academic pressure. This raises an interesting point... Is faith an underestimated factor in academic success? What role does personal belief play in overcoming challenges?
Dr. Lee’s aspiration is clear: she hopes her achievement will send a strong message, not only to her children and relatives, but to all Malaysians, regardless of their age. "Chronological age is inconsequential; it is the ongoing pursuit of learning that revitalises the mind and sustains a youthful outlook," she emphasized. Her story truly embodies the essence of lifelong learning, proving that ambition doesn't diminish with time. It's a testament to the power of continuous growth and intellectual curiosity. But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that pursuing a PhD later in life is a luxury, not everyone has the resources or support to do so. What do you think?
For those who might feel they are "too old" to return to education, Dr. Lee offers gentle and encouraging words: "Age imposes no barrier to learning or to the pursuit of one’s ambitions." It's a message of hope and empowerment for anyone considering a return to academia.
To Dr. Lee Heng Liang: Your perseverance, dedication, and invaluable contribution to knowledge stand as a powerful testament to your lifelong commitment to learning. UTM proudly celebrates your extraordinary achievement and is honored to recognize and share your inspiring journey with the world.
What are your thoughts on Dr. Lee's journey? Does her story inspire you to pursue your own educational goals, regardless of your age? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!
