Would you ever go back in time and retake your SPM exams? That’s exactly what one Malaysian woman is considering, over a decade after she last sat for them.
Photo via Business Today
Now 28 years old and married, she recently took to Threads to share her story, revealing that she’s been thinking about resitting her SPM, which she first took back in 2014. Her results? Mostly Cs, a B+ in Science, and a failing grade in Arabic Education, a result that continues to weigh heavily on her.
What’s prompting her to consider this unusual step? She said it's driven by a desire for better job opportunities and to keep up with her smart kids. Wanting to be a good example to them, she’s toying with the idea of going back to the books.
Her post quickly went viral, prompting a flood of responses from fellow Malaysians, some supportive, others more practical.
Several users pointed out that retaking SPM might not be necessary. They noted that she passed the core subjects like Bahasa Melayu and History with C+ grades, which would have made her eligible for Diploma programmes at community colleges or other training institutes.
One netizen wrote, “Your results aren’t actually that bad. Why not enrol in a vocational course or community college? It could open doors without needing to resit the exam.”
Another chimed in, highlighting how much the syllabus has changed since 2014: “Even if you take it again, it won’t be the same exam. You’re better off using what you already have to move forward.”
Still, there were others who offered words of encouragement: “If it gives you peace of mind or boosts your confidence, go for it. But don’t let your past results hold you back.”
At the heart of the conversation is a woman who simply wants to improve her life, for herself and her future family. Whether or not she chooses to retake the SPM, her story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to keep learning.
