Seberang perai: Heng Meng Lai has proven that age is no barrier to education after becoming the oldest graduate in the history of Seberang Perai Polytechnic (PSP), completing his studies at the age of 57.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering recipient at the PSP Convocation Ceremony 2026 had long dreamed of furthering his studies, although it had to be postponed for nearly five decades due to work and life commitments. The third of seven siblings said the hardships he faced from a young age motivated him to improve his life through education, after his father passed away when he was nine and his mother took on the responsibility of supporting the family by working in a sewing factory.

Heng expressed his belief that learning has no age limit. Despite the delay in resuming his studies, he never relinquished his dream of obtaining an academic qualification. Heng stated, "I am grateful to finally hold my diploma." He chose Electrical and Electronic Engineering after his work experience at an electronics factory sparked a deeper interest in the field.

His time as a student at PSP was meaningful, as he received continuous support and guidance from lecturers who helped him adapt to the learning environment despite being much older than his classmates. Heng acknowledged the lecturers' support, saying, "The lecturers at PSP were always supportive. They guided me patiently and constantly encouraged me to succeed. I never felt marginalised even though I was the oldest student."

Heng, who is single, plans to return to work to apply the knowledge and skills he has gained before pursuing a Bachelor's degree, further realising his ambition to continue advancing his education. Meanwhile, PSP director Mohd Ruzi Hamzah remarked that Heng's achievement is a source of pride for the institution, as he not only completed his studies but also made history as its oldest graduate.

Heng's journey, from a storekeeper to a production line supervisor at an electronics factory, and now a diploma holder in electrical engineering, exemplifies that education is everyone's right and learning has no age limit. Mohd Ruzi emphasized PSP's commitment to providing quality education opportunities to all segments of society regardless of age or background, aligning with the country's aspiration of lifelong learning to produce highly skilled human capital.