‘My hero, my mentor. Thank you, teacher!’
KUCHING: Teacher’s Day is a day when educators from all walks of life are presented with some form of appreciation from their students to commemorate their dedication and effort in raising them up.
In view of the day’s significance, The Borneo Post spoke to some Sarawakians on their fondest memories of their favourite teachers in their school years.
According to DBKU’s division head of legal affairs James Saga Bayang, 39, he vividly recalled memories of his homeroom teacher Miss Corrina, an English teacher he highly respected.
“She was almost like a second mum to us — she treated us like her children and would often ask how we were feeling. She would also always reach out to us whenever we were feeling down.
“When I heard she had passed away in 2014, I was shocked with the realisation that I would never be able to thank her for all the things she had done for me and how she helped me in my journey as a student,” he said, adding that if given the chance, he would hug her tightly as he was never presented the opportunity to do so after graduating from school.
As for BESarawak senior communications executive Rose Bruce, 31, who spent her early education days in Whitton Secondary School in London, one particular teacher stands out in her mind.
“Miss Andrea was one of those teachers who would cater her class accordingly to what was needed by the student — where she would even have casual conversations with us about life,” she said.
Rose also fondly remembered Andrea would try to be friends with and understand her students, instead of ‘reading from a script’.
“There are no specific fond memories of her but seeing her free-spirited behaviour while maintaining a strict manner in education made her lessons fun and more interactive,” she said.
While Rose is unaware of the whereabouts of her former teacher, if given the opportunity to show her gratitude, she would look Andrea in the eyes and tell her she was the best teacher she had ever had.
Imelda Kartika Karim, 51, fondly recalled memories of her secondary school Biology teacher — the current Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.
“She portrays a modern woman and was a knowledgeable educator who is cultured and knows how to reach out to her students,” she said.
Despite only working indirectly behind-the-scenes with Fatimah in recent times, Imelda remains inspired by the work her former educator has done and continues to see her with the highest regards.
One memory that stands out for Imelda was being questioned by Fatimah for wearing a pinafore on a Friday, and she responded that it might be the last time she would be wearing one, which truthfully became a reality later on.
“Without a doubt, I have a lot of fond memories when it comes to her, and all of my teachers, and with this opportunity presented to me, I would like to say thank you — thank you for dedicating your time and wisdom towards teaching all of your students,” she said.
Meanwhile, proud Thomian, Reynold Ahviet, 41, recalls his English teacher Mr Goh during his school years. The Kraftangan Sarawak civil servant recalls his teacher was rather strict about pronunciation, plural forms, verbs, past tense and in some moments, he and his classmates would have their fingers crossed for the right answers.
“He would always try his best to make you understand the English language easily with a step-bystep approach and from there, I was able to progress in learning the language better.
“I admire him, which is why I speak fondly of him. When it came to mastering the English language, Mr Goh was extremely patient with me and the things he taught me continues to be instilled in my mind to this very day,” he said.
Although Goh is retired now, Reynold shared his gratitude for the lessons and values learnt, especially when it comes to public speaking, and hopes his former teacher would continue living a good life. Architect by day and musician with Meruked by night, Syed Ashraf Edruce, 29, fondly remembers the encouragement he received from a substitute teacher, Mr Yusuf, in St Joseph’s when it came to pursuing his passions.
“I remember him telling me to go the long way, saying that I had a knack for speaking up with the ability to express myself freely. Back then, I didn’t know whether it was music, poetry or literacy but all I know is from that point onwards, I held on to that encouragement to this day,” he said.
“Saying thank you is an understatement — without these kinds of people in your life, you definitely see life as seemingly empty.”
It was from then on Ashraf understood and learned the true meaning to appreciating the people who teach and impart their wisdom on others.