PUBLIC AWARENESS (Ignoring Signs a Sign of Our Ignorance)

            While illiterate people strive to understand letters and words, it is frustrating how literate people are ungrateful for their ability to read. I am not talking about their unwillingness and poor motivation to learn reading habits, but their ignorance, selfishness and insensitivity when they come across signs and labels. Yes, this seems to be a small issue but the effects can be strong and serious. It is one way to help us differentiate between the civilised and uncivilised, the respectful and disrespectful, and the educated and less educated.

            During a visit to a bakery, customers turned a blind eye to the sign “Please Queue Here”, making the counter area clustered and uncontrollable.

            Unfortunately, the experience at the bakery is not the only one that exhibits low self-awareness among the public on the importance of following rules. There is a number of common situations that shows up the habits of people who live by the motto “It’s okay, it’s not a big deal”, not realising that they have constantly and subconsciously put other lives in misery.

            Take the “No Smoking” sign, for example. Despite the huge letters and logo, some puff away in public without feeling guilty. 

            Other signs that are not taken seriously include “No Spitting”, “No Littering” and “Flush After Use”. Those who fail to understand that cleanliness is next to godliness think that it is okay to spit, litter and leave toilets dirty when no one is looking. This wrong mindset is the reason for our dirty environment and inconvenient restrooms. Worse, children may get the wrong idea and imitate the acts. It is feared that these erroneous practices will cause the next generation to live unhealthy lifestyles.

            Likewise, it is also hard to make road users comprehend road signs especially the ones that disallow U-turns or to exceed speed limits in school zones and overtake in specific areas. Regardless of excuses, breaking the law is intolerable. These users put other lives at stake as they drive recklessly, behaving like gangsters and daredevils.

            Let us not belittle the signs as they can make a big difference in our lives.  

Courtesy of New Straits Times

5 August 2015

Make Learning English Enjoyable!

            I refer to two letters published on July 29, “Minding your English is hard, but it pays off” by Liong Kam Chong and “Anxiety hampers students’ learning” by Sumati Muniandy. The writers expressed concern and provided suggestions on why and how students and school-leavers should master English, especially speaking and writing skills.

            Liong suggested that school-leavers should be “the first in their families to use English”. The suggestion might work, but only for those living in urban and suburban areas, and not those in rural areas. Urban students are likely to be influenced, encouraged and motivated by their environment where the community uses English, no matter how occasional, broken or standard it is. School-leavers will pick up frequently used vocabulary and include them in conversations at home.

            However, there is hardly any chance that the strategy will work on rural students. From my experience in teaching rural students and conducting English programs for them, these students were hesitant and anxious to use the language despite being around friends with whom they should be comfortable. At home, surrounded by those with no interest using the language, it would be even more difficult for them to start speaking English. Some assume these learners will gain motivation to learn English independently after they leave school, but the reality may disappoint. They would rather do menial jobs than sign up for English courses or put individual efforts to improve their English for the sake of getting a decent job.

            One way to help rural learners learn English is by cultivating interest before they leave schools. English teachers need to help overcome learners’ fear and anxiety in learning the language. Sumati was right about students feeling nervous and not confident when speaking in public. I suggest teachers carry out English On-Air programmes to help students indirectly speak to the public as they act as announcers a la radio deejays in schools. Gradually, students will improve their confidence and eliminate their fear when speaking in English.  

            Learning will be effective if teachers establish close rapport with learners. Given that English is not the preferred subject of many students, teachers should be smart in making students love the subject. To punish them harshly when they fail to improve their performance, reach a certain target or be proficient in the language is not a professional move. Instead, teachers need to modify their teaching styles and remind students not to give up. Make them feel safe, happy, motivated and curious to learn more about the language. Children should not be perceived as sponges that will absorb knowledge immediately as not everyone is a fast learner.

To create a stress-free environment, young learners should be treated with love and care while teenage learners should be treated like friends or adults. Fostering a friendly relationship will bridge the gap between teachers and learners. It will also make the seeds of respect, sincerity and enjoyment grow and make learning a worthwhile experience.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

31 July 2015 

FRIENDSHIP DAY (We Are Friends to Each Other)

            Every year, Friendship Day is either observed in July or August. The day is significant in promoting solidarity, mutual understanding and reconciliation in the name of friendship.

            Strong friendships are made of strong fundamentals. Those who stay friends and connected for years understand each other better. They provide advice and solutions when their long-time companions deal with failures and frustration. After all, a friend in need is a friend indeed.

            Likewise, Malaysians are friends to each other. This friendship is built on trust, unity, respect, tact and tolerance since pre-independence. Being in a multicultural and multiracial community, our peace and harmony are challenged by issues - such as inequality, integrity, corruption, race, politics, economy and religion - that create chaos, putting people with different ideologies and ideas at loggerheads with one another. But we should take these misunderstandings and grouses as storms that will pass and leave lessons. If there’s no pain, there’s no gain. We need to undergo these trial and tribulations together with an open heart and optimistic mind to stay close and united in our friendship circle.

            English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge said: “Friendship is a sheltering tree”. When the heat is scorching, we need to become shady trees that provide coolness, calmness, security, sanctuary and peace. This means that adding fuel to the fire when the country is dealing with crises and controversies will not help.

            Our unique and precious friendship is meant to be treasured, appreciated and celebrated. We may have different lifestyles, ways of thinking, personalities and cultural practices, but our differences are our richness. Let us stop the bickering, finger pointing, overreacting and slandering, for these will shape us into shallow- and narrow-minded people. As we strive to maintain our good image, we need to stop washing our dirty linen in public. Instead of speculating and spreading rumours on the Internet, we should address root causes and voice our suggestions through proper channels. 

           Let us also free ourselves from negativity and keep our friendly relationships stronger than ever.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

29 July 2015 

HEATSTROKE (Beautiful Sun is also a Danger to People)

            The sun can be beautiful and harmful. Sunshine helps people kick off their day at work but extreme exposure to the sun may put people’s lives in danger. What makes it worse is, some people have zero knowledge about the causes and effects of heatstroke, let alone ways to prevent it. Do ignorant and nonchalant attitudes help them live free of worry and stress? There are people who do not care about the consequences of their actions.

           The fact that sunstroke cases are rare in the country makes people feel safe when they are out in the sun.

            Since the athletes, labourers and children are at risk of getting heatstroke, it is wise if they stay safe. It is important to note that, in this context, athletes do not refer only to professional athletes playing sports in the sun, but also people who engage in sports and outdoor activities, like jogging and playing football, without protection. 

            I was told about a 16-year-old student who suffered from sunstroke after he played football in the evening this year. The incident increased my awareness about keeping myself and my family safe.

            As for labourers, they and their employers should be aware of the dangers of heatstroke. Labourers should not sacrifice their health. They should be smart in managing their work, preferably after they reach a mutual agreement with their caring bosses, who should consider the workers’ safety.

            Children are sometimes left in vehicles by parents or out playing under the hot sun. Parents should make their children’s safety a priority. It is time for parents to practise smart parenting.

            Heatstroke is not a joke. Stay protected today for a happy tomorrow.

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

26 July 2015 

ROAD SAFETY (Minimising Festive Road Crashes)

            It is that time of the year again when many head home for Hari Raya Aidilfitri. The journey will be challenging as roads will be congested. If drivers prepare well for the trip, the pressure will be minimal and the journey joyful. But, how do motorists minimise the risk of getting involved in accidents? There are many ways.

            There are obstacles and unexpected incidents that are avoidable and inevitable. Accidents during festive seasons have claimed many lives and caused nightmares to those who escaped with injuries. In certain cases, the accidents are caused by those who drive recklessly and speed. This happens when there are fewer vehicles on the roads, especially on the first day of Raya and a few days after it, as some people head home after work travel commitments.

            People need to make ‘safety first’ their motto. It is not advisable for drivers to continue their journey when they are exhausted. Chances are they will doze off behind the wheel. That is why it is essential for drivers, especially solo travelers and those with passengers but driving alone, to be physically and mentally prepared. For those with travelling companions, conversations during the journey may prevent from sleepiness and boredom.

             It is also important for motorists to control their emotions. Not only should they be patient, they should also not be overexcited.

            Motorists and passengers should adhere to traffic regulations during their journeys to and from from their hometowns. 

            Selamat Hari Raya!

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

19 July 2015

FILM CENSORSHIP (Local Shows Mirror Our Culture)

            I am not somebody in the film industry but a layman who pays close attention to the effects of international and local dramas and films on the audience’s changes in attitude, lifestyles and ways of thinking. So, I feel that the recent revision by the Film Censorship Board on guidelines for local productions deserves the thumbs up. The decision shows the board's strong concern over worrying issues of moral decay and crime involving people from all walks of life, especially children and teenagers. This smart move also indicates its determination to instil noble values in audiences as only local dramas and films with good messages and decent scenes will be allowed to be aired on television.

            It is crucial for us to understand that stricter rules will not mean low quality and limited creativity. Local filmmakers need to challenge themselves to produce dramas and movies that are meaningful, inspiring and appropriate for general viewing. With excellent scriptwriting and directing, they help the movies succeed at the box office. We may need to learn from international filmmakers who come up with works of intriguing and beautiful storylines, as in Laskar Pelangi, The Blind Side, Taare Zameen Par and Taegukgi. These movies are examples of high-grossing productions that convey strong messages and teach the audience about the essence of education, brotherhood, helping the needy, patriotism, appreciating individual talent and family relationships.

            It is hard to deny that the millennial generation learns effectively through what is trendy and, judging from the country's criminal phenomenon, that involves not only those with family problems and poor academic performance, but also those with upbringing and education. 

            The popularity of films with superstitious beliefs, indecent acts, extreme stunt performances, harsh and inappropriate languages, and criminal strategies is a negative exposure to viewers, regardless of age, gender and living status. This will encourage immature audiences to apply wrong but fun-to-try practices they see in movies to real life. In consequence, parents will be surprised when their children begin to smoke, bully, take drugs and involve in sexual intercourse behind their backs.

            It may be important for filmmakers to take the audience's interest into account before, but they need to bear in mind that marketable does not mean advisable. True filmmakers should be able to produce heart-wrenching and mind-blowing movies in their effort to help the audience immerse in the storyline that is likely to be their stories in real life.

Apart from making profit, filmmakers should not forget their social roles in educating the public on important aspects in life and various issues in the country. This is to prove that movies are not mere entertainment, but an informal education that teaches audiences about empathy, the importance of respect and kindness.

            Our local productions mirror our culture and way of life, so we should not tarnish our own image as a country with good morality and personality, because that is our identity.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

13 July 2015 

ACHIEVEMENTS (Don't Doubt Capabilities of the Iron Ladies)

            Women's achievements in shouldering their responsibilities as a filial daughter, caring mother, loving wife, loyal friend and dedicated worker are remarkable.   

            Many realise that women should be given equal opportunities to contribute to the country, but there are some who believe that women should focus on doing household chores, taking care of husbands and raising children.  

            Not only have women become high achievers, bosses, icons and millionaires, but many have also broken into industries dominated by and associated with men. With the number of male nurses, chefs and housekeepers, which are predominantly female jobs, keeps increasing, women continue to join manly professions, resulting in the mushrooming population of female footballers, soldiers, taxi and truck drivers, stunt performers, mechanics and drift racers. Despite working in a man’s world, it does not make these iron ladies less feminine. Instead, they are just like other women. 

            Thus, it is important for the public, especially men, to not be prejudiced against women and doubt their ability to be competent in occupations rarely preferred by the fairer sex. Their interest, passion and efforts to sharpen their skills and improve their performance should be viewed positively as, at the end of the day, hard work, confidence, motivation and optimism produce desirable results, not perception, prejudice and judgment. Their determination to serve the country and mankind is impressive.

            Giving women the chance and freedom to choose jobs without preventing them from joining professions dominated by men is not about switching from traditional to modern thinking. Rather, it proves the power of civilised minds that can accept change and believe in equal rights.

American author Robert G. Ingersoll said: “When all men give to all others all the rights they claim for themselves, the world will be civilised.”

We live in an era where eccentricity is regarded as normality, maturity and creativity, while being trendy is a lifestyle. As long as the practices are done in the right way and for the right reasons, there should only be encouragement, not objection.

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

12 July 2015

RAYA 'BALIK KAMPUNG' (More than just a trip back to hometown)

            Balik kampung is a phenomenal term in Malaysia, especially during festive seasons. Even its mere mention can leave someone on cloud nine as childhood memories come rushing back. However, the recent controversy over discouraging the public from returning to their hometowns for the festive season to reduce financial expenditure has created chaos on social media, as many vent their frustration and dissatisfaction. I agree with Mazlena Mazlan who discussed the matter in her article “The power of social norms and persuasion” (NST, July 8).

            Every country has its own social norms that signify acceptable behaviour in a group of people. So does Malaysia. In some countries, it is a tradition to gather with family and friends for Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, in the spirit of togetherness, gratefulness and prosperity. Likewise, Malaysians build camaraderie and strengthen their relationships with loved ones through religious and cultural celebrations. With Hari Raya just around the corner, the Muslim community especially is looking forward to reuniting with family members, relatives and acquaintances in celebration of 1 Syawal - the ultimate glory after a month of fasting and resisting temptation. Thus, refraining excited citizens from proceeding with their plan to balik kampung will invite negative reactions, leading to grouses and disharmony.  

            I believe that the lack of money should not be a problem or an excuse for us to discontinue our long-time and noble practice of balik kampung. This is because it shows our efforts in upholding strong values we are taught to maintain, with the hope that the next generation will preserve the cultural tradition to prevent them from forgetting their roots. For many unable to regularly visit their parents due to tight work schedules and other inevitable circumstances, Raya is the perfect time for family gatherings.

            Balik kampung is important in a way that it can give us a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Such a lifestyle can lead to burnouts, depression, conflicts and negative thoughts, especially when one fails to juggle obligations of work and family, resulting in poor work-life balance. Our exhausted body, mind and soul deserve a rest from the world of materialism where we are busy chasing dreams, accomplishing goals and competing to emerge champions in life. Raya is a chance for us to engage in healthy social interaction as we attend open house and mingle with others, share stories, exchange information and forgive each other.

No matter how educated, wealthy and successful we are and will be, we should always go back to where we come from. It is true that there is nothing wrong with celebrating Raya away from home, but we will miss a huge opportunity to mend what is broken, correct what is wrong and appreciate those who love, remember and sacrifice for us the most. I don’t think it is a good idea to resort to smartphones or social media to express our love and ask for forgiveness from our parents, as the feeling will not be the same.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

10 July 2015 

TECHNOLOGY (Let's Not Be Enslaved To Smartphones)

            Technology has taken a toll on human well-being. Despite the long-term effects of the excessive use of technological devices, many people are obsessed with their gadgets. Unless something bad befalls gadget lovers or their family members, advice and reminders will fall on deaf ears.

Smartphones and tablets offer great advantages, but we should not turn a blind eye to their drawbacks.

Since the young are more exposed to the negative effects of smartphone and tablet use, it is the responsibility of adults to remind them.

Education starts at home. Hence, it is vital for parents to teach their children the dos and don’ts in life. However, many parents would rather coddle their children and buy them mobile devices as they want their children to be sophisticated, trendy and tech-savvy. Although this will create a win-win situation as parents and children make each other happy, there are health problems parents may fail to foresee. Children’s inability to think maturely will result in grave repercussions. Worse, parental indulgence could lead to bad habits such as staring at screens all day and bad posture while texting. 

American author Joyce Maynard said: “As much as we watch to see what our children do with their lives, they are watching to see what we do with ours.” Parents should present a good example to children and ensure that they practise what they preach. This will make children admire and emulate them as role models.

Youngsters can be informed about the side effects of smartphones and tablets through formal and informal approaches. For instance, workshops, talks and activities can be held in schools and varsities. Teachers, lecturers and administrators should act as facilitators or speakers in the programmes. Medical experts can focus on the short- and long-term risks of being obsessed with gadgets. In addition, case studies and incidents of users experiencing tragedies caused by gadgets may serve as evidence and eye-openers for participants to take this matter seriously.

Smartphones are invented by geniuses for smart people, who should control themselves and not be enslaved by such devices. Let us stop loving them to death, for, chances are, they will lead us there.  

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

5 July 2015

RAMADAN (A Month of Atonement, Devotion)

            Ramadan is a month of giving and forgiving. It is also the time when Muslims devote themselves to the Almighty in their effort to find inner peace, get blessings and turn over a new leaf. Some may be strong enough to endure all the tests and challenges, but others may fail to resist temptations because of the influence of others, lack of self-awareness or due to the attitude of taking things for granted.

            Many make a big mistake by waiting for the perfect time – that may never come - to ditch their negative habits while using the saying “old habits die hard” as an excuse but, sometimes, when it comes to changing for the better, it is either now or never.

            It is hard for active smokers to abstain from lighting up during the daytime and even a bigger challenge for those who are determined to stop smoking for the whole month. But is it not the right time for smokers, be they active or passive, to free themselves from the smoking world in which many are trapped for good? Some smokers may argue that it’s easier said than done, but their mature and civilised minds should be able to decide for their own health, as at the end of the day, it is not the frightening facts about smoking that will help them quit, but their self-motivation and strong will. Smokers should know that smoking is a suicidal act that has caused many to die with regret.

            It has become a seasonal phenomenon for children to play with firecrackers to face the music. In fact, there is a recent case of a child losing five fingers. It is disappointing to know that many parents still allow their children to play with the deadly “toys”. Firecrackers pose a high risk to those lighting up, throwing and even being in the vicinity. Not only does the irresponsible and insensitive act put others in danger, but the explosive sounds can also disturb others, denying their rights to live in peace and harmony.   

         Gossiping and spreading rumours are habitual activities many fail to refrain from. Chatterboxes and “keyboard warriors” indulge in this guilty pleasure as they try to kill time and stay energised during the fasting month. Not only do these gossipmongers intrude into others’ private lives, but their bad behaviour also shows their lack of respect towards the holy month, as they subconsciously and sinfully ‘quench their thirst’ by joining in face-to-face or online conversations, bad-mouthing others.

            The food wastage during Ramadan is another issue caused by unhealthy habits. Customers easily fall for food and drinks that look so tempting that they drive buyers to spend excessively to satisfy their cravings and insatiable yearnings. This pathetic situation reveals the bad reality of some Malaysians, who possess the attitudes of ungratefulness, greed and insensibility.

            Ramadan is not the time for bragging, smoking, mocking and overspending, nor is it merely about suppressing hunger and thirst. Instead, it is a month of atonement, self-assessment and devotion, and that makes Ramadan a meaningful and reflective time of the year.

Courtesy of New Straits Times,

2 July 2015

WELFARE AID (We Can Turn the Poor's Gloomy Days into Bright Ones)

            Former Nobel Peace Prize recipient Albert Schweitzer said: “The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.”  The fact that not everyone is born with a silver spoon in his mouth, or experiences a smooth journey in life, teaches one to be grateful, and think about those who cry in silence and need a helping hand.

            Sometimes, we admire those with power, wealth and success, but we don't look out for those struggling to make a living. Although many needy people receive financial aid, the amount may not be sufficient to cater to their needs because of the rising cost of living. Thus, the Welfare Department may have to revise its requirements while considering medical expenses and educational fees, especially families with children pursuing tertiary education, to help eligible recipients receive an adequate amount. This effort is not only a gesture of generosity, but also a symbol of humanity.

            Besides the involvement of government bodies, non-governmental organisations can also lighten the burden of the needy. This financial aid will usually be channeled to children in schools. Schoolchildren who meet the criteria will be shortlisted to receive welfare aid. Scholarships are provided by the government and private organisations to those with excellent academic performance and participation in co-curricular activities. 

            Some of those who live a hard life may stay strong but others may not be able to handle the pressure, and may blame fate and other people for their hardship. Family heads and breadwinners may be depressed thinking about their uncertain future. Their children may become negative individuals, especially those who are bullied and belittled due to poverty, and this affect their studies. Poor students have the potential to succeed, but their environment may lead them to a life of crime.

            Helping the needy is our responsibility. It is vital for us to care for members of society as our help can turn their gloomy days into bright ones. We may not be able to take away their pain, but we can ease their burden.

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

28 June 2015

Learning English (Contests, activities boost English fluency)

            I refer to Alkut's letter, “Give priority to listening and speaking skills” (NST, June 18), and appreciate his concern about the issue. But allow me to clarify and share my personal opinions regarding this matter.

The writer agreed that the overemphasis on examinations had, to some extent, forced teachers to go back to traditional teaching methods. But I believe our education system has begun to apply a holistic approach, as in the case of the Pentaksiran Tingkatan 3 (PT3), which requires candidates to conduct field studies and class presentations for History and Geography subjects as well as oral examinations for all language subjects. This contradicts with the writer’s idea that “many teachers tend to overlook these two skills (listening and speaking) as they are not evaluated in the exams”. In fact, the two skills were separately evaluated last year, resulting in PT3 candidates obtaining two grades (the other being the written test) for the English subject.

            In addition, the Education Ministry has come up with an initiative to develop the aural and oral skills in students, as Oral Proficiency in English for Secondary Schools, or OPS-English, was introduced a few years ago. This programme focuses on the teaching of listening and speaking using the provided books that encourage learners to use their visual and verbal intelligence as they need to describe pictures shown on the pages. The program, however, is implemented only in selected schools, most probably to first check on its effectiveness based on the data collection and feedback given by the schools, before all schools are required to join in.

            OPS-English is a good strategy to make lessons interactive and enlightening. The approach helps extroverted students to participate during class discussions while introverts get to share their thoughts during individual presentations. However, this will work well only if teachers can identify the students’ learning styles and topics of interest and become facilitators who motivate learners to speak up. The approach will take full effect when students develop mature thinking, respond spontaneously to the topics discussed, and inculcate aesthetic values, shaping them into wise thinkers, eloquent speakers and compassionate individuals.

            One way to help students boost their speaking skills is by involving them in competitions and activities. As a trainer involved in preparing students for performances, such as drama, speech choir, choral speaking and English-related competitions, I notice positive changes in the way they perceive the language. They may not speak flawless English, but the practice sessions help them gain vocabulary, pronounce words correctly and use English frequently in their conversations.   

            Students should realise that their ability to master the four skills – listening, speaking, reading and writing – will not only help them in their studies and career but, more importantly, it is also the language of survival that will solve bigger problems in the future. 

Courtesy of New Straits Times,

24 June 2015

'ORKIM HARMONY' SAR (Zero-tolerance Policy on Hijacking Must Be Adopted)

            Hats off to the Royal Malaysian Navy and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, as well as supportive and co-operative neighboring countries, which have been involved in the search-and-rescue (SAR) mission for MT Orkim Harmony, an oil tanker ship that went missing last week. The success is a result of strong will, high spirit, effective teamwork and great commitment, both in carrying out duties and saving lives.

The accomplishment of the mission means a lot to Malaysians, especially the victims’ families and friends. The next of kin of the crew members were forced to live with uncertainty and agony during the ordeal.

  The hijacking of the ship is another example of human beings' obsession with materialism and power. This explains the last line of the poem, Heir Conditioning, by M Shanmughalingam. He wrote: “Money is your new God”. Those involved in maritime piracy have undoubtedly broken religious rules. No religious belief promotes or supports inhumanity, violence and greed.

For the sake of world peace, hijacking, robbing, threatening and putting others in danger have to be stopped. A zero-tolerance policy should be applied when it comes to such unjustifiable acts.

Courtesy of New Straits Times,

22 June 2015

Staying 'On' for Online Security

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
 makes life a wonderful journey.

          It is challenging for parents to control their children’s internet use. The fact that the Internet is useful and harmful for children leaves parents in a dilemma as despite supervision, reminders and house rules, some children, when it comes to feeding their curiosity and getting what they want, break the rules to satisfy their needs. Some children may be innocent, obedient and trustworthy, but with the lure of the Internet, many are easily influenced. In this situation, parents need to realise that children can be naughtier and smarter than they thought.

The popularity of local and international dramas, movies and novels that focus on adult genres, including romance, relationships and marriage, influences children and teenagers who watch them. These hobbies, which are beneficial if the right movies and books are selected to develop children’s critical and positive thinking, and teach them lessons in life, make children eager to experience adults lives. Consequently, schoolchildren become excited when they are approached by strangers on the Internet.

The growing interest in watching dramas on television and reading teen novels should be viewed cautiously. Chances are this habit will lead to negative effects. Some schoolchildren would rather postpone their homework unless they have finished watching drama episodes or reading the final chapters of a romance novel. Their infatuation with fictional characters is so strong that it encourages them to treat online strangers openly without being suspicious of their intentions.

We can save children from becoming victims of exploitative individuals on the Internet. For example, Information and communications technology teachers should explain the good and bad effects of the Internet. These students should be reminded not to disclose their identity and personal information as well as not to form a close online relationships with strangers.  Parents should be mindful of their children’s activities and avoid thinking that their teenage offspring are mature enough to decide for themselves. 

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

21 June 2015

FATHERS DAY (Joy of Being a Father Figure to Students)

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
 makes life a wonderful journey. 

           Men are likely to develop a fatherly feeling most possibly after they are blessed with their first newborn, but there is a different kind of fatherhood.  

            I used to be the only male hostel warden for four years in two different schools and the experience of taking care of hundreds of teenagers has made me a father of many children.  

            Having to work shifts, including on weekends, public holidays and school holidays, it is not surprising that many are not willing to take on this job. When I first became a warden, I found the job torturous and unworthy, but, with time, I learned to manage my stress better as I began to believe in the silver lining behind every cloud. Instead of thinking that I was a teacher who was forced to juggle heavy workloads at school and at the hostel, I decided to view my additional responsibilities in my teaching career positively for the sake of retaining a healthy work-life balance.

           When it comes to dealing with underprivileged students with myriad personalities and attitudes, a warden needs to have courage, determination, patience, endurance and, most importantly, effective strategies and techniques for the betterment of the students.

The children’s well-being had always been my concern. It was exhausting and tedious to supervise them daily but that was what made our chemistry grow stronger.

Teenagers love fun and entertainment. This explains why an occasional movie treat is necessary to give occupants a break from studies and help them experience an enjoyable hostel life. I believe this activity had helped the students and I forge a close relationship as we spent the quality time together as one big family, and the fact that some students were able to explain the lessons learnt from the movie proved that the session was an effective way to develop children’s creative, critical and reflective thinking.

Since good motivation is what makes children strive and succeed, my hostel had invited professional speakers to carry out motivational talks on various topics, including education, religion, health and safety. In fact, we were honoured to have New Sunday Times columnist, Dr Koh Soo Ling, who came all the way from Ireland as a speaker during the Teachers Day celebration two years ago. My students were inspired and enlightened with Koh’s friendly approach, as she touched on the topics of studying abroad and achieving dreams.

Dealing with children’s misbehavior at the hostel is inevitable. But, it is important for wardens to handle the situation carefully and wisely. I had sharing sessions with many offenders. When we listen to their explanation and do not blatantly blame them for their mistakes, we will be able to identify the root causes that will help us solve problems efficiently. Likewise, effective communication between a parent and a child can make all the difference.

I am glad that my four years of blood, sweat and tears had paid off. 

Happy Fathers Day to all gentlemen who carry out their parental duty wholeheartedly and love their children unconditionally. 

Courtesy of New Straits Times

18 June 2015

HEALTH (We Can 'Rice' Up Against Tainted Food)

            Important criteria that make good entrepreneurs include their ability to set targets, take risks, follow principles, create creative strategies and practise good business etiquette. However, some businessmen have their own definition, understanding and interpretation of these criteria, which make a business not mutually beneficial to dealers and customers, as the businessmen focus more on profit and personal satisfaction. 

             These people use dirty tricks to make money, as in the case of tainted rice suspected to be produced by an Asian country. The rice is believed to be made of plastic and dangerous to health. The situation, fortunately, is under control but that should not make us nonchalant customers who depend on the authorities to take care of our safety. It goes without saying that everyone has an individual responsibility.

            When it comes to goods and foods, especially those that are imported, it is important for the items to go through strict procedures before they are distributed and ready to be sold to consumers. This process will ensure that customers are happy with the products, be they local or international.

            However, as wise customers, we should act immediately if we are suspicious about the quality of products we buy. Chances are, the products are not safe. When this happens, customers should lodge complaints with the authorities. This should be immediately as our report may save lives.

            The authorities should provide the public with guidelines and procedures for lodging complaints, should there be something wrong with the products. This initiative is necessary to avoid panic. Campaigns can be carried out to inform people about health awareness and customers' rights. This way, the public can make wise decisions when buying products, and they would know what to do if they face problems after buying them.

            Regardless of who we are – young or old, rich or poor, male or female – we need to be wise when buying food, because our health deserves our care.   

Courtesy of New Sunday Times,

14 June 2015

STUDENT-CENTRED LEARNING (Teachers To Take A Back Seat)

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
makes life a wonderful journey.

           I refer to the article by columnist Abdul Karim Abdullah, “Reforming education with student-centred learning” (NST, June 5), and support his idea of prioritising the role of learners to ensure effectiveness in the teaching and learning process.

            Despite the advent of technology and recommendations made by educationists-cum-researchers who have carried out empirical studies on the importance of applying new techniques in educating the millennial generation of students, some teachers still believe in traditional teaching methods.   

            As a teacher who is passionate about making it right for the sake of producing balanced individuals, students are my top priority. From my observation, students love to talk, play and move around; this keeps them happy and energetic. While some teachers perceive students as lazy, rambunctious, useless and undisciplined, I realise that students need fun to keep them “alive”. This explains why teacher-centred lessons make students bored. I believe it is time for teachers to ditch old-fashioned ways of teaching and try implementing new methods, as we support the idea of 21^st century learning.

              The fact that some teachers compare between advanced, intermediate and weak learners, and worse, develop a negative perception towards slow learners, is frustrating, unprofessional and irrelevant. Many teachers agree that it is easier to teach and carry out activities with good students than those in weak classes, considering the uncontrollable behaviours of hyperactive students and those not interested in their studies but, from my experience, that is usually because teachers plan the wrong activities or lose their passion when teaching students with low proficiency.

            Teachers should stop doubting the ability of learners. Take group presentations, for example. Although many believe that this student-centred teaching method is only for good students, it is actually applicable to weak learners, too. They may mumble, lack confidence and be playful during their presentation, but with time, they will improve and find the activity intriguing as they are given the opportunity to share and shine. All they need is continued encouragement and motivation. Practice makes perfect.

            Teachers need to realise that by applying a student-centred approach, it will encourage independent learning, which gives learners room and freedom to understand topics, interpret issues, solve problems and suggest solutions, as they develop creative and higher-order thinking skills. In fact, when students actively participate in classroom activities, it benefits not only their intellectual wellness, but also their physical, emotional and mental well-being, as teachers get out of the box and carry out activities that activate students’ kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal and verbal intelligence. As long as students are given clear instructions about the task, teachers can take a role as helpful and friendly facilitators, while learners dominate the learning session.

            A student-centred approach should be the preference of teachers who wish to stop making students sleep with their eyes open, as they need to be awake to make them think and learn.  

Courtesy of New Straits Times,

9 June, 2015