| Fizah HAB |
HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam presented awards to 19 educators in recognition of their contributions to Brunei’s education development in a ceremony held during the 28th Teacher’s Day Celebration at the International Convention Centre (ICC) yesterday.
Among the recipients were Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Kassim bin Haji Lamat and Pengiran Datin Paduka Hajah Hairani binti Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Muda Abdul Rahman, who were bestowed with the Meritorious Teacher’s Award.
Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Kassim began his career as an education officer in 1973, holding various key positions throughout his 30 years in service, before retiring in 2003.
Speaking to the Bulletin, he shared that teachers are now facing greater challenges as educators of society compared to teachers from 20 to 30 years ago. One of these, he said, is the instant availability of information which can be difficult to filter and can negatively affect students’ mental and social development.
Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Kassim said, “I hold on to the principle that we are serving as an educators in service of Allah the Almighty and not to earn accolades and recognition. In line with national Vision 2035 and this year’s Teacher’s Day theme of Guru Dedikasi Pendidikan Cemerlang, it should be highlighted that educators play an important role in society.”
He added, “Developed countries are built on educated people and teachers should evolve together and play a more proactive role in contributing to the society.”
Pengiran Datin Paduka Hajah Hairani, meanwhile, began her career as an education officer in August 1976, taking up a position at the Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien College. She has served for more than 28 years in various positions in the Ministry of Education (MoE) until her retirement in 2005, and has been active in society work through several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) since then.
“To face the ongoing challenges, current and future educators must have both the passion and a strong work ethic born from the desire to do their best work. This sense of dedication comes from within,” she said in terms of giving advice to her fellow teachers.
“Teachers should constantly evolve to keep up with technological advancements, learn new skills and possess the desire to improve and be better teachers,” she added.
The Excellent Teacher’s Award, meanwhile, was presented to four education officers: Dr Lim Chee Ming from Universiti Brunei Darussalam; Pengiran Haji Mohd Wahab bin Pengiran Haji Abdullah from Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE); Naziancina Galarido Ward from Sunshine School; and Norliza binti Haji Zaini of Pantai Berakas Primary School.
A delighted Pengiran Haji Mohd Wahab said of being handed the award, “It is very humbling and a proud moment for me to receive the award from His Majesty. I have been teaching since 1993, and this award will definitely motivate me to work even harder to educate the children and help them excel.
“I would like to thank my fellow teachers and heads of departments at the MoE for continually providing strong support and advices. Together, we should be working sincerely with strong work ethics to develop students into becoming future leaders of Brunei Darussalam.”
A total of 13 educators, comprising instructors and teachers who have contributed to producing successful students in their respective subjects and have been active in conducting and implementing education programmes or projects, were also honoured with the Special Mention Award.
Farizan binti Haji Rosli, one of the Special Mention Award recipients, told the Bulletin that she has dedicated her life to the profession, and has been teaching at the primary level at Batu Marang Primary School, Cluster 4 for 12 years.
“Receiving this award was beyond all my expectations. To be selected as one of the recipients for the award is a true honour. I’m deeply grateful to His Majesty and the MoE for the recognition,” she added.
“I may not be the teacher my pupils most like or love, but I’ll always ensure that they will still receive my best knowledge and advices. For me, a child’s education begins from home and I would like to thank all parents, who I believe are the first teachers for their children, for their endless support in ensuring that their children receive the best education.
“Teaching might not be an easy job but it certainly is very rewarding. I’d like to say to my fellow teachers: don’t give up and do our job well. Be proud of your work as it is a profession that creates other professions, one which you can make an impact on your students’ lives.”