I am a writer by passion, academician by profession. A political scientist at the beginning of my career. Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, I saw how life can be unjust and confusing, with no right answer to all the wrong questions. More importantly, I experienced how prejudices can lead to the downfall of a society.Though I grew up wanting to become a psychologist, there was no denying my true path—politics. Being part of a family that does not shy away from the politics of Malaysia and beyond has led me to some lows and some peaks. Yet, the most valuable lesson that I can take away from my childhood is the importance to question, to search, and finally to opine.
I successfully graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Political Science and History with a concentration in the Middle East. I am also a proud alumna of the London School of Economics and Political Science, with a Master's Degree in Comparative Politics (Democracy). Recently, I completed my PhD at the International Islamic University Malaysia, with a research interest on Islamist political parties in the Middle East, specifically the AKP in Turkey.
Having architects as parents and an animator as a brother definitely plays a huge role in embedding me with love and respect for the arts. In between work, I try to spend as much time brushing up on my mediocre guitar skills, and my intermediate photography skills. It also goes without saying that I love to read on history, politics, and religion, especially those that combine all three.
On top of everything, I am also battling against all the odds as a wife to the most amazing husband a girl could ask for. Together we are thoroughly dedicated to our babies, Raysa, Zayra, and Safya, our beautiful daughters.
Syaza Shukri