Hall of Fame — Mr Abqari bin Annuar
In the heart of Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, a young boy made his way through the lively streets of his close-knit community, dreaming of a future where his voice could ignite change. That boy was Abqari bin Annuar. His journey began in the classrooms of SK King George V, followed by SMK King George V where he completed both his SPM and STPM. He then continued into the corridors of Universiti Malaya’s law faculty where he dedicates himself to amplifying the voices of his peers.
Abqari values both seriousness and humour, giving his all to everything he undertakes and striving for perfection. He expects the same level of dedication from those who work alongside him. Knowing when to switch gears, he balances fun with focus effortlessly. He describes himself as someone who puts his heart into everything he does — whether it’s joining a competition or taking on a new challenge, he strives to give his absolute best. His upbringing fostered a strong respect for family values, where education and professional excellence were emphasised. Inspired by his parents’ achievements, Abqari learned the importance of dedication and a sense of responsibility. His father, a Universiti Malaya Law graduate, had a distinguished career as a Senior Federal Counsel and former magistrate in Kota Bharu, Rembau, and Alor Setar. He continues serving as a lawyer, while his mother balances a demanding career as a doctor with family life, serving as chairman for various committees and travelling to Putrajaya for weekly meetings.
Besides both of his parents, his sister’s journey played a vital role in shaping his journey. As a master’s graduate from Oxford University and a staunch advocate against child marriage at UNICEF Malaysia, her work exemplified a blend of purpose and impact. Watching her use her education to drive meaningful change inspired Abqari to envision a similar path.
What motivated your switch from science to social science, and how did those early leadership experiences shape the person you are today?
For Abqari, the shift from science to the social sciences was not a detour but a natural alignment with his deeper aspirations. Though science was initially a practical choice due to subject combinations in school, it didn’t resonate with his heart. Encouraged by his father, a former STPM teacher and lawyer, Abqari took a leap of faith during STPM to pursue social sciences. This decision opened doors to disciplines such as sociology and political science, which broadened his understanding of the world and reinforced his belief that the law could be a transformative tool for societal change.
Form Six was a defining chapter in his life. As a naturally reserved individual who once preferred roles like secretary or treasurer, he never imagined stepping into the spotlight. Inspired by his senior, Mr Raes, to contest in the Student Executive Council (‘SEC’) election. He eventually won and became the president. Winning the election pushed him out of his comfort zone, forcing him to embrace the challenges of leadership head-on. The transition was far from easy as he didn’t have much experience in leadership and had to adapt to new responsibilities and expectations quickly.
The SEC became his training ground, where he learned essential skills such as team management, event organisation, and navigating the complexities of leadership. He relied heavily on the council’s structured methodologies — identifying stakeholders, crafting detailed action plans, and executing initiatives with precision.
A particularly unforgettable moment was when he attended the SEC Camp, a leadership programme that emphasised the value of camaraderie and trust. One of the highlights was the month-long series of gruelling individual tasks. While the tasks tested individual resilience, it was the unwavering support and encouragement from his teammates that kept him going.
The passion for leadership he developed during his time with the SEC led him to apply for Undi18, a youth-led initiative that successfully campaigned for lowering the voting age to 18. He joined as a research intern to expand his understanding of activism and how it can be properly channelled to bring about change. The landmark judicial review, “Mana Undi Kami,” which granted Malaysian youths the right to vote, became a defining moment for Abqari. Seeing ordinary Malaysians successfully challenging the government was a moment of revelation for Abqari. It reinforced his belief in the transformative power of the law and strengthened his resolve to combine legal expertise with youth advocacy.
“It showed me the power the legal field can bring to the table.”
For Abqari, the journey into law wasn’t just about following in his father’s footsteps. He was determined to challenge the stereotypes surrounding lawyers, especially the misconception that those in government roles are inherently corrupt. To him, the legal profession is a platform to prove that integrity and justice can thrive, even in spaces where cynicism often prevails.
He believes that legal literacy among youth is essential to creating a generation of Malaysians who understand their rights and are empowered to shape their future. As a law student and passionate advocate, he often speaks about the importance of making legal language more accessible and encouraging young people to engage with the laws that govern them. His vision is for a future where legal literacy becomes a societal norm, empowering Malaysians to navigate the legal system effectively and utilise it as a tool for collective progress.
What sparked your passion for student activism, and how did the events or affiliations contribute to your journey?
Student activism wasn’t a predetermined path but a spark that ignited as he navigated the uncharted waters of university life. Despite his leadership experience from his days in the Student Executive Council (‘SEC’), he began his first year at Universiti Malaya as an observer, carefully assessing the landscape before taking any bold steps. The Universiti Malaya Law Society (‘UMLS’) became his initial anchor, offering a structured environment reminiscent of the SEC.
"Hidup Mati Lawsoc" — a chant UMLS taught Abqari and one he will never forget.
It was during this time that he met Ms Lai Yue Yi, a close friend and active member of UMANY, the university’s prominent student movement. Watching her rise through the ranks, eventually becoming a student representative, sparked something in him. By his second year, Abqari was no longer interested in observing from the sidelines. He stepped onto the stage, ready to play a leading role. Leadership roles soon followed, with Abqari serving as Secretary General in the Universiti Malaya Student Union (‘UMSU’) Law Faculty and Head of Advocacy under the Current Affairs Secretariat of Universiti Malaya Student Union (‘UMSU’).
When Abqari first joined the advocacy unit, he didn’t just jump in without a plan. He took the time to carefully assess the role. He consulted with Ms Lai Yue Yi, who acted as the committee of the unit, clarified his responsibilities, and ensured he had a clear vision of how he could make an impact. His previous experience as a research intern for Undi18 had given him the tools to navigate the challenges ahead.
Abqari with one of his most trusted friends, Yue Yi
A significant breakthrough came when he co-created the “Introduction Series” for UMSU alongside his friend, Ms Faranisa. Recognising the lack of awareness among first-year students about the union, he saw an opportunity to bridge that gap. Frustrated by a voter turnout of just 60% in the previous campus elections, he set an ambitious goal to achieve 70%.
To achieve this goal, Abqari utilised his content creation skills by designing infographics and engaging with new students. The result was a significant increase in voter turnout — an achievement that benefited all students. Recognising the importance of effective communication, Abqari also noticed a gap in media relations between student bodies and external organisations. Noticing the hesitation of some organisations to engage with politically active groups, he founded Siswa Press, an independent unit dedicated to bridging this divide while maintaining professional and unbiased media interactions.
His journey took a bold turn when he contested in the campus elections as a direct candidate under Suara Siswa, an emerging student front advocating inclusivity with the motto "Malaysia is for everyone." While the election didn’t result in a win, it became a pivotal moment, solidifying his belief in the power of student representation. Inspired by the vision of Suara Siswa, he joined its ranks as one of the earliest members and, under the mentorship of senior leaders like Mr Alexis, helped the movement grow into the largest student front in the university.
Building a movement is no small feat. With just 15 members and a handful of representatives, Suara Siswa was like a small crew embarking on a daunting expedition. Starting as Secretary General, Abqari steadily gained the trust and support of members, eventually becoming the President of Suara Siswa and later contesting as the Presidential candidate for Universiti Malaya Student Union (‘UMSU’).
Now, serving as the current president of the Universiti Malaya Student Union (‘UMSU’), the presidency didn’t come easily to Abqari — it was fought for, earned, and secured through sheer determination despite the challenges. Within that struggle, the victory was all the sweeter, wrapped in the surprise of a dream turned reality. The collaboration with UMANY enabled his team to reclaim the student union — a victory that marked one of the proudest achievements in his journey.
Reflecting on his presidency, Abqari recalls how, in his first year, the idea of becoming president was nothing more than a casual joke among friends. By his final year, however, it became a reality, driven by hard work and perseverance.
When asked about how his journey serves as a testament to inspiration, Abqari humbly stated that he doesn't inspire anyone and that he's just a random, sleepy guy — a far cry from any so-called ‘big shot.’ However, if anyone is truly inspired, he hopes to motivate others to step into student activism and leadership roles, with one essential caveat: their loyalty must always remain with the students, never swayed by any government, party, or external force. For Abqari, true leadership in university means prioritising students above all, without hidden agendas. A leader must shed any superficial motivations for fame or recognition. And when those leaders eventually step into the wider world — whether as MPs or in other influential positions — they must never forget the ones who paved the way for them.
This conviction is at the heart of his activism. He highlighted the importance of defending these freedoms, explaining how crucial they are to fostering meaningful discussions within university spaces. Abqari believes that being a leader is about sticking up for the needs of students, even if it means standing by yourself, rather than winning elections or receiving recognition. Despite facing inevitable criticism for his initiatives from certain people, Abqari approaches it with maturity and optimism.
If people genuinely wanted to offer constructive feedback, they would text him personally, rather than making public statements intended to disrepute him. Nevertheless, he still finds criticism helpful, as he believes there is always room for improvement. Through the highs and lows of his journey, one lesson remains clear to Abqari: leadership is about service, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the students he represents.
"Pro Mahasiswa, Suara Mahasiswa"— Abqari is grateful for his comrades from Suara Siswa UM x UMANY. Together, they are never afraid to raise student issues.
How do you ensure that the initiatives you lead leave a lasting impact on the student body, and what skills or challenges from your extracurricular experiences have shaped your approach?
Before launching any project, his team conducts thorough surveys to identify genuine needs within the student community. This approach ensures that programmes like the Food Bank or Laptop Assistance directly address real concerns. By placing students at the core of every initiative, Abqari ensures their input guides every stage, from planning to execution. To strengthen this connection, he prioritises regular engagement, hosting town halls and informal meetups where students can openly share their concerns. These spaces foster genuine dialogue, ensuring that student voices are heard and acted upon.
Additionally, Abqari is dedicated to being an approachable leader. He ensures that students feel comfortable contacting him directly with comments or ideas, whether by text message or a friendly chat in the Student Union office. Every suggestion is respected, weighed with the cabinet, and integrated into current or upcoming projects.
Through his extensive extracurricular journey, Abqari has honed invaluable skills that guide his leadership style. He emphasises that effective leadership isn’t about imposing authority but about fostering trust and understanding. He believes in creating an environment where individuals feel safe enough to make mistakes and have open conversations. This approach has fostered loyalty and commitment from his team, helping to build trust and strengthen relationships.
His leadership ethos is complemented by his research acumen, a skill he sharpened through his involvement with initiatives like Undi18 and the Y Politics editorial team. For instance, before meeting someone new, regardless of the reason, he carefully researches key individuals and their agendas, ensuring he is always well-informed and ready to tackle any challenge that comes his way. This combination of preparation and approachability has become the cornerstone of his success in both leadership and advocacy.
Looking back on his time with the research and editorial team at Y Politics, Abqari reflects on the skills he developed in content creation and his approach to crafting content that resonates with audiences. He believes the first step is identifying a relevant, widely discussed issue. Once the topic is chosen, the next task is understanding it in depth, while also considering how to present it — whether to remain neutral or take a stance and communicate it effectively.
Abqari focuses on simplifying complex issues, making them accessible to the average layman. While valuing neutrality, he aims to let readers form their own conclusions. To ensure accuracy, he relies on various sources and presents his content in his own words, offering a fresh perspective that is both informative and easy to understand.
Being heavily involved in extracurricular activities, Abqari faced the significant challenge of balancing the demanding trifecta of academics, activism, and leadership, often at the expense of sleep. He shared how his routine usually sees him returning home around 10 p.m., catching up on pending tasks, completing assignments, and studying until 2 or 3 a.m. before finally getting some sleep. Time always felt scarce, with assignments, responsibilities, and commitments coming at him relentlessly. He’s still striving to find a balance — not just for his family but also for his academic work and student union duties.
Despite the relentless demands, he relied on strong study habits and the support of close friends to navigate academic hurdles. Tutorials, particularly for challenging subjects like Land Law, became essential lifelines in staying on track.
What has been your most rewarding academic experience as a law student, and how has it prepared you for the legal field or life beyond law school?
For Abqari, some of the most transformative lessons as a law student have come from moments of struggle and perseverance. Land Law, a subject notorious for its complexity, initially left him feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. The added pressure of his lecturer’s criticism only deepened his doubts. Hours of study, relentless determination, and a refusal to quit eventually paid off, earning him a B — a grade that meant far more than its paper value.
This persistence would later prove invaluable during his internship at a law firm when he was assigned a research task involving Trust Law — another area he hadn’t particularly enjoyed. But recalling his earlier experience with Land Law, Abqari approached the task with the same determination. He dug deep into the material, sought guidance from his peers, and put in the extra work needed to produce quality research. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed — his supervisor praised the work as one of the best she had ever reviewed.
These experiences reinforced a powerful lesson that with dedication and hard work, even the most challenging subjects can be conquered. It was a lesson that extended beyond academics, teaching him the importance of resilience and perseverance in all aspects of life.
Abqari also recalls his victory in the 2022 Malaysian Foreign Policy Competition, a win that pushed him well outside his comfort zone. At the end of his first year at university, instead of opting for a quick gig during the semester break, he decided to explore something completely new — foreign policy. Encouraged by a friend, he took a chance and entered the competition.
He credits the success of his team to two key factors, thorough research and practical policy suggestions. The recommendations Abqari and his team crafted and presented to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs impressed the judges for being both ambitious and realistic, ultimately securing them the win.
This recognition has bolstered Abqari’s confidence as a prospective legal contributor, giving him valuable insights into drafting practical, achievable policies. He acknowledges that many promises fall short in terms of practicality, teaching him to critically assess whether what he says is achievable. This participation has reshaped his approach to engaging with people, particularly in discussions about policies and promises.
One of Abqari’s most unforgettable experiences, delivering a speech at a Parliament press conference
As you approach your final year of law school, how do you plan to make the most of it, and what lessons or reflections have moulded your priorities?
His final year in law school represents an opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice, setting the foundation for his future in the legal field. He aims to master the procedures and intricacies of legal practice so that when he enters the workforce, he can navigate tasks like submitting forms and understanding courtroom processes with confidence. Abqari dedicates time to reviewing notes from seniors, preparing himself to excel in his future career, and ensuring that he’s well-equipped to handle the practicalities of the legal world.
However, Abqari envisions his future in law not just as a career, but as a platform for shaping Malaysia’s progress, with a particular focus on constitutional and administrative law. He is captivated by the Constitution, viewing it as both a guide and a challenge.
In addition to constitutional law, Abqari has a strong interest in criminal law, drawn to its technical intricacies and the intellectual challenge it presents. Abqari resonates with Tan Sri Shafee Abdullah's belief that there is always a defence in every case, which drives his critical thinking and motivates him to craft compelling arguments, no matter the challenge.
Beyond academics, Abqari is equally committed to shaping the next generation of student leaders. He focuses on empowering those who prioritise the well-being of their peers, ensuring they are equipped with the leadership skills necessary for success. He is dedicated to teaching them how to raise important issues, conduct press conferences, and create impactful messaging.
"I want to train them as people who always put the students as the number one priority."
At the heart of this commitment is his belief in youth advocacy as an influential force in the legal and political arenas. He views the younger generation as a driving force capable of challenging authority and pushing for justice, with the potential to reshape the country’s future.
While his journey has been filled with purpose, it has also come with sacrifices. Balancing the demands of academics, activism, and leadership has often meant missing out on carefree moments. Though he doesn’t regret the choices he’s made, he acknowledges that there are times he wishes he could have had more spontaneous, lighthearted nights out with friends. For him, the sacrifices — missing out on casual hangouts and weekends filled with laughter — are part of a larger strategy to build a future, brick by brick, with each decision pushing him closer to the legacy he aims to create.
Yet, Abqari’s mindset is anything but impulsive. When the temptation to indulge in momentary pleasures arises, or when someone advocates for the You Only Live Once (‘YOLO’) mentality, suggesting that it's time for some carefree fun, he remains grounded. For him, it's not about rushing to experience fun; it’s about leaving behind a lasting legacy.
He admits that whenever he feels tempted to make a questionable decision, he pauses to reflect on whether he wants such actions to define his legacy. This introspection keeps him centred, like an anchor that keeps a ship steady amid the waves of youthful recklessness. To balance the weight of his responsibilities, Abqari seeks moments of respite in unexpected places. He reaches out to close friends, finding relief in their support like someone adrift in a boat finding a buoy in a turbulent sea. He also allows himself to be swept into the light, mindless world of TikTok scrolling, a brief escape from the demands of his packed schedule. Reconnecting with a childhood hobby, he has taken to building Lego sets, recently assembling an F1 model that reflects his love for the sport and his admiration for Sebastian Vettel and the Red Bull team. The act of piecing together something tangible offers him a creative escape, allowing him to reassemble his thoughts and recharge his mental energy.
Beyond F1, he is a loyal fan of Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Negeri Sembilan football clubs. His interests also include watching the Ultimate Fighting Championship (‘UFC’) and staying engaged with current events. This simple act of creation allows him to disconnect and reassemble his thoughts, offering a much-needed mental reset to keep him afloat amidst the demands of his journey.
Every decision in his final year is intentional, driven by the desire to leave behind a legacy that reflects his values and aspirations. Whether through his academic pursuits, his commitment to leadership, or his moments of reflection, he strives to make this year a culmination of growth, purpose, and preparation for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
What are your expressions of gratitude and acknowledgement, as well as your future hopes?
Abqari expresses sincere gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his journey, emphasising that his accomplishments were far from solitary. He acknowledges the many people who played a critical role in his success, without whom he wouldn’t be where he is today. He begins by thanking his family — Mak, Abah, and Kak Long — for their steadfast support. Even in the face of protests that could have led to his arrest, his parents stood by him, offering strength and encouragement that helped him persevere despite the risks.
Abqari wouldn’t be where he is today without his family
He extends his thanks to his academic friends — Mr Jason Cheok, Mr Elexis Wong, Mr Woh Tung Ming, Mr Tan You Heng, and Mr Lim Jit Yeng — for their assistance with his studies and invaluable guidance, which were keys to his academic success. Abqari also expresses gratitude to his friends — Ms Lai Yue Yi, Ms Anice Wong, Ms Loh Chee Ming, and Ms Lam Yee Yao — who stood by him during his more audacious and controversial endeavours, always offering encouragement and advice that helped him overcome obstacles.
Abqari with Jason, Elexis and Jiasheng in front of UM Library
“People say law school is a journey where the fastest will survive, but for me, it’s a journey where you need friends to help you”
He recognises his UMSU family — Mr Ten Kang Yeaw, Mr Then Khai Yang, Mr Tang Yi Ze, Mr Addisesan Nair, Mr Abishek Prasad, and Mr Ooi Guo Shen — for their teamwork and support, which were instrumental in achieving the success of claiming UMSU. Their efforts were integral to the student front’s accomplishments.
Abqari thanks his close-knit group of friends — Ms Sulakhni Kaur, Mr Akhmal Amaluddin, Ms Siti Sarah, Ms Anis Nadhira, Ms Kamilia Cheng, Mr Louis, and the rest of the Crazybbs — for their constant support and companionship, which kept him focused and motivated throughout his journey. Finally, he offers a special thank you to Ms Teo Kai Ting for her unwavering support and for helping him stay sane throughout the challenges, especially during the elections. Her presence and understanding were crucial in helping him stay focused on his goals.
Abqari is forever grateful for his “CrazyBbs”
As for future hopes, when asked about his plans in politics, Abqari remains cautiously optimistic. Though he has no desire to align himself with any political party — disillusioned by their uniform shortcomings — his focus is firmly on collaborating with Civil Society Organisations (‘CSO’) and Non-Governmental Organizations (‘NGO’). He believes these grassroots movements are the true agents of change, working tirelessly to address societal issues at the ground level. In the future, he hopes to see a political landscape where service to the people outweighs power or personal gain — a vision that reflects the ideals he holds dear.
Abqari’s journey is far from over, but his unwavering dedication to advocacy, leadership, and personal growth has already left a mark on those around him. Grounded by his principles and driven by a clear vision for the future, he continues to inspire others to rise above challenges and strive for meaningful change.
Written by Dhievakar Paramesivan.
Reviewed by Wong Xin Lin and Yap Ern See.