A Rainy Morning at the Malaysia–Thailand Border

SK GUAL TO'DEH - This morning began with a blanket of grey clouds hovering low over the Malaysia–Thailand border. The sky looked heavy, and soon, the rain poured down steadily, turning the quiet streets into shimmering paths of reflection. The sound of raindrops hitting the rooftops created a soothing rhythm, a kind of natural music that accompanied the stillness of the morning. It was one of those days when the air felt fresh and cool, and everything seemed to slow down.

This morning, around 7:15 a.m., I arrived at school under a cloudy sky. Shortly after that, heavy rain began to fall.

Rainy days at the border carry a certain charm. The mist that rises from the wet ground softens the view of distant hills, while the coconut trees sway gently under the wind. Farmers pause their morning routines, shopkeepers cover their goods, and children rush under shelters with laughter echoing through the drizzle. Life continues, but at a calmer, slower pace — as if nature is reminding everyone to take a moment to breathe.

For people who live near the Malaysia–Thailand border, such weather is not unusual. The region often experiences heavy rainfall, especially during the monsoon season. However, what makes this morning special is the atmosphere it brings — peaceful, reflective, and filled with a sense of togetherness. The rain connects both sides of the border, uniting two lands under the same sky, the same rhythm of falling water.

As a teacher and blogger living in this area, rainy mornings like this inspire me to write. The calmness gives space for ideas to grow, and the cool air refreshes my mind. I often sit by the window with a cup of coffee, watching the rain trace its patterns across the glass, while thinking about the people whose lives move between these two countries — traders, teachers, students, and travelers. Their stories, like the rain, flow endlessly and connect cultures in beautiful ways.

Even though the rain may cause minor inconveniences — wet clothes, muddy roads, or delayed errands — it also brings blessings. It nourishes the fields, cools the air, and reminds us of life’s simple balance. By midday, when the rain begins to ease, the world feels renewed. The scent of wet soil lingers in the air, and the border towns awaken again with activity and laughter.

Indeed, a rainy morning at the Malaysia–Thailand border is not just about the weather; it is about the quiet beauty of nature and the rhythm of life that continues, rain or shine.

The Galleries

A Better Connection, A Better Creation: How My New UniFi Modem Transforms My Work as a Blogger

SK GUAL TO'DEH - This morning marked a small but meaningful change in my daily routine — the installation of a new UniFi modem in my room. At first glance, it might seem like a simple upgrade, just another device to keep me connected to the internet. However, for me as a blogger and content creator, this improvement means much more than just faster browsing. It represents efficiency, productivity, and creativity coming together in a seamless way.

The new UniFi modem in my room provides a faster, more stable internet connection, making it easier for me to work, blog, upload videos, and stay connected without interruptions.

With the new UniFi modem, my internet connection is now stronger and more stable than before. Previously, I often struggled with slow uploads and interruptions during live sessions or while uploading videos to my channel. These disruptions not only consumed extra time but also affected my motivation and the consistency of my content creation. Now, with a smoother connection, I can upload high-quality videos without waiting for hours, conduct live sessions without worrying about buffering, and research my topics quickly and efficiently.

Reliable internet is the backbone of a modern digital professional’s life. For bloggers like me, the ability to stay connected means the ability to share knowledge, experiences, and stories with a wider audience in real time. Each blog post or video I create requires research, editing, and interaction with my audience — all of which depend heavily on stable connectivity. A strong internet connection allows me to collaborate easily with other educators, join webinars, and engage with readers from different parts of the world.

Moreover, fast internet enhances my creative flow. When my connection works perfectly, I can focus entirely on the content itself instead of worrying about technical issues. The smoothness of the process encourages consistency — an essential trait for maintaining a loyal audience. As a teacher, blogger, and YouTube creator, my goal is to inspire others through education and storytelling, and this new modem helps me do that more effectively.

In essence, the new UniFi modem is not just a tool — it is an enabler of progress. It empowers me to work more productively, create better-quality content, and connect with my audience without barriers. In today’s digital world, a good internet connection is not a luxury; it is a necessity for anyone whose work revolves around communication and creativity. With this new upgrade, I feel ready to take my blogging and video projects to the next level.

A Letter of Love to Our Dearest Daughter, Hanna Sofea

LUBOK JONG - Today, the sky feels softer, the wind gentler, and the world somehow brighter — for it carries the melody of your fifteenth birthday, our beloved daughter, Hanna Sofea. Time has crept, like waves caressing the shore, and before we knew it, our little girl has blossomed into a young lady — graceful, kind, and filled with light. You were once a tiny miracle in our arms, and now you have become the heartbeat of our home, the reflection of our prayers, and the living proof of Allah’s mercy in our lives.

We love you endlessly, Hanna Sofea.

With all our hearts,

Your loving family — forever and always.

Our love for you, Hanna, cannot be measured by the ticking of years nor by the depth of oceans. It is a love that breathes in silence, that watches over you when you sleep, and that smiles with every joy you bring. You have taught us patience and reminded us of hope. Through your laughter, we remember the beauty of innocence; through your tears, we understand the strength of compassion. You are a garden of dreams that continues to bloom, even when the world feels cold.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said that a daughter is a blessing — a veil from the trials of life, and a bridge to paradise for her parents. Every time we look at you, we are reminded of that sacred promise. You, our daughter, are a light that guides us closer to Allah. Your presence brings barakah to our home, and your growth reminds us of our purpose — to nurture love, faith, and goodness in every heartbeat that connects us.

As you turn fifteen, remember that beauty lies not in what the eyes can see, but in the kindness of your heart. Be gentle in your words and steadfast in your dreams. Let your compassion be your strength, and let your prayers be your compass. The world will challenge you, my dear, but never forget that your roots are deep — rooted in love, in faith, and in the dua of your parents who will never stop believing in you.

We have watched you learn, stumble, rise, and shine. You are growing into a young woman who listens with empathy, speaks with wisdom, and acts with sincerity. Let your journey ahead be guided by truth and courage. Carry the values we hold dear — humility, respect, and kindness. Do not rush to chase the world; let the world discover your grace. Remember, real success lies not in the applause of people but in the quiet peace that comes from pleasing Allah.

Dear Hanna Sofea, you are more than a daughter; you are a gift, a melody written by love and sung by time. No matter how far you go, no matter how tall you grow, our hearts will always find their home in you.

May your future be filled with light, your path lined with faith, and your soul anchored in gratitude. You are our joy, our prayer answered, our precious gem.

We love you endlessly, Hanna Sofea.

With all our hearts,

Your loving family — forever and always.

A Poem for Our Beloved Daughter, Hanna Sofea

(In the Light of Faith and Love)

In the name of Allah, the Most Kind, the Most Wise,
We lift our hearts and thankful eyes,
For on this day, fifteen years ago,
He blessed our lives with your gentle glow.

O Hanna Sofea, our cherished light,
Born from mercy, pure and bright,
A trust from Heaven, soft and true,
Our path to Jannah lies through you.

The Prophet taught, in words divine,
That daughters are a sacred sign,
A shield from trials, a path to grace,
A radiant joy in a mother’s embrace.

Your laughter warms our weary days,
Your kindness lights a thousand ways,
Each prayer you whisper, each tear you hide,
Are jewels of faith we hold with pride.

Grow with iman, let taqwa bloom,
In every breath, let peace find room,
Let Qur’an’s light be your guide,
Its wisdom ever by your side.

When storms of youth begin to call,
Remember Allah above it all,
Be patient, gentle, pure of heart,
Let sabr and love be where you start.

For beauty fades, but faith remains,
A pearl preserved through joy and pain,
Seek knowledge, serve with soul sincere,
For Allah’s love is always near.

Dear daughter, treasure every prayer,
In every sujud, you’ll find Him there,
And know our du’a will never cease,
For your success, your heart, your peace.

May angels guard your every night,
May guidance crown your every sight,
And when this world feels dark or small,
Remember — Allah sees it all.

So walk with grace, our lovely one,
Your journey now has just begun,
You are our amanah, pure and true,
A bridge to Jannah — through loving you.

With love that time can’t sweep away,
We pray for you, each night and day.
May Allah bless your every way,
Our dearest Hanna Sofea.

💫 We love you, always — for the sake of Allah.

Mengingati Sahabat Tersayang, Syed Mustapha (Abe Syed)

Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un: 

SK GUAL TO'DEH - Pagi ini saya menerima satu berita yang amat mengejutkan dan memilukan hati. Seorang sahabat baik saya, Syed Mustapha (berkain pelikat) atau lebih mesra kami panggil Abe Syed, telah kembali ke rahmatullah di Hospital Sungai Buloh. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. Pemergiannya amat dirasai bukan sahaja oleh saya, malah oleh semua rakan-rakan yang pernah mengenalinya.

Arwah Abe Syed bersama-sama rakan sahabat yang sentiasa ceria di mana sahaja berada. Semoga kenangan ini akan terus kekal dan kita semua berjumpa di akhirat kelak.

Dua minggu yang lalu, saya sebenarnya telah merancang untuk menziarahi arwah di Hospital Kuala Lumpur, bersempena perancangan saya ke Kuala Lumpur bersama anak-anak. Namun, disebabkan keadaan kesihatan saya yang tidak begitu mengizinkan, hasrat itu terpaksa ditangguhkan. Walau bagaimanapun, saya bersyukur kerana sempat berbual dengan arwah beberapa kali melalui panggilan telefon. Suaranya masih tenang seperti biasa, penuh kelembutan dan kasih sayang terhadap sahabat-sahabatnya.

Kenangan bersama arwah ketika kami belajar di Institut Pendidikan Sutan Idris Tanjung Malim, Perak masih segar dalam ingatan. Saya pernah tinggal sebilik dengannya, dan hubungan kami sangat rapat seperti adik-beradik. Setiap kali cuti semester, jika saya tidak pulang ke Kelantan, arwah akan mengajak saya mengikutnya pulang ke rumah keluarganya di Slim River. Arwah seorang yang sangat pemurah dan tidak pernah berkira soal makan minum. Dalam persahabatan kami, tidak pernah ada perselisihan faham atau rasa kecil hati.

Saya juga masih ingat ketika arwah dan keluarganya datang menziarahi saya di Pasir Mas hampir 2 dekad yang lalu. Mereka bermalam selama dua hari di rumah saya. Kenangan itu amat bermakna dan kini menjadi memori yang sangat saya hargai. Arwah sentiasa menunjukkan contoh sahabat sejati—baik budi, penyayang, dan prihatin terhadap rakan-rakan.

Selepas tamat pengajian, kami masih berhubung. Arwah sering bercerita kepada saya tentang kehidupannya sebagai guru di Sungai Buloh. Beliau sangat berdedikasi dan komited terhadap tugasnya, dan sering berkongsi kisah tentang murid-murid serta tanggungjawabnya di sekolah.

Pemergian arwah Abe Syed meninggalkan kesan mendalam kepada kami semua. Kehilangannya sukar digambarkan dengan kata-kata. Kami mendoakan agar roh arwah dicucuri rahmat, diampunkan segala dosa, dan ditempatkan bersama orang-orang yang beriman. Semoga Allah mempertemukan beliau dengan anaknya di alam abadi nanti.

Marilah kita bersama-sama menghadiahkan bacaan Surah Al-Fatihah buat arwah Syed Mustapha (Abe Syed):

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ

الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ

الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ

مَالِكِ يَوْمِ الدِّينِ

إِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُ وَإِيَّاكَ نَسْتَعِينُ

اهْدِنَا الصِّرَاطَ الْمُسْتَقِيمَ

صِرَاطَ الَّذِينَ أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيْهِمْ غَيْرِ الْمَغْضُوبِ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا الضَّالِّينَ

آمِين

(Al-Fatihah untuk arwah Abe Syed. Semoga rohnya tenang di sisi Allah SWT.)

Teachers Show Their Skills in the Netball Shooting Challenge at SK Gual To’Deh

ENGLISH CENTER SK GUAL TO'DEH - One of the most anticipated highlights of National Sports Day 2025 at SK Gual To’Deh was the netball shooting event for teachers. The competition brought excitement and joy to the school field as students, parents, and fellow teachers gathered to cheer for their favourite participants. This friendly match was not only about showcasing skills but also about fostering teamwork, sportsmanship, and a healthy lifestyle among teachers.

The Green House team is ready for the tug-of-war event.

The event began after the student games ended, and the teachers took to the court with great enthusiasm. Divided into teams according to their respective team colours—Merah, Biru, Hijau, and Kuning—each group displayed confidence and energy. The rules were simple: each participant had several chances to shoot the ball into the net from different distances. Every successful shot earned points for their team.

Laughter and cheers filled the air as teachers took turns demonstrating their shooting skills. Some managed to score with ease, while others missed narrowly, drawing friendly teasing from their colleagues. The students on the sidelines clapped and shouted encouragements, enjoying the sight of their beloved teachers participating actively in sports. The light-hearted atmosphere created a strong sense of unity between teachers and pupils, showing that learning extends beyond the classroom.

The competition grew more exciting towards the end as scores between the teams became close. Teachers encouraged one another, and teamwork was evident in every moment. Even those who missed their shots were met with smiles and applause, reflecting the true spirit of sportsmanship that the event aimed to promote.

In his closing remarks, the headmaster, Mr Bakri Bin Md Nor congratulated all the teachers for their participation and enthusiasm. He emphasized that National Sports Day is not only a celebration of fitness but also a way to strengthen relationships within the school community. He added that such activities inspire students to stay active and view sports as an enjoyable part of life.

The netball shooting event proved to be more than just a fun competition—it was a celebration of teamwork, unity, and joy among the teachers of SK Gual To’Deh. It truly reflected the spirit of National Sports Day 2025, reminding everyone that staying active together builds both health and happiness.

Tha Galleries

National Sports Day 2025 at SK Gual To’Deh

ENGLISH CENTER - A Celebration of Health, Unity, and Team Spirit, The spirit of health and unity filled the air at Sekolah Kebangsaan Gual To’Deh as the school proudly celebrated National Sports Day 2025 with great enthusiasm and joy. The event, held on a bright Saturday morning, aimed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles among students, teachers, and parents. This annual celebration has become one of the most awaited occasions at the school, reflecting the importance of sports and physical activities in nurturing well-rounded individuals.

A group of aerobic performers was invited to enliven the National Sports Day 2025.

The day began with a lively senamrobik session, led by the school’s energetic teachers. The rhythmic music and synchronized movements created a cheerful atmosphere as everyone—from Year 1 pupils to teachers—moved together in harmony. The session not only served as a fun warm-up activity but also highlighted the importance of exercise as part of daily life. The school compound was filled with laughter and cheers, symbolizing the unity and enthusiasm that sports bring to the community.

Following the senamrobik, a variety of exciting sports events and games were organized. Students competed in track and field events such as 100-meter sprints, relay races, and tug-of-war. The younger pupils enjoyed fun games like sack races and balloon-popping challenges, designed to develop coordination and teamwork. The field was vibrant with the sounds of cheers and applause as each house team—Merah, Biru, Hijau, and Kuning—gave their best performance to earn points and make their house proud.

Teachers and parents also joined in the fun, participating in special events such as teacher-student relays and family telematches, strengthening the bond between the school and the local community. The highlight of the day was the teachers’ tug-of-war, which brought laughter and excitement as both teams pulled with all their strength while the students cheered loudly for their favorite side.

The event concluded with a closing ceremony officiated by the school headmaster, Encik Bakri Bin Hj Md Nor, who congratulated all participants for their effort and sportsmanship. In his speech, he emphasized that the true purpose of the National Sports Day is not merely to win medals but to cultivate the values of perseverance, teamwork, and discipline. He also expressed gratitude to the organizing committee, teachers, and parents for their dedication and cooperation in making the event a success.

As the sun began to set, smiles and satisfaction could be seen on everyone’s faces. The National Sports Day 2025 at SK Gual To’Deh successfully achieved its mission of promoting health, unity, and school spirit. It was more than just a sports event—it was a celebration of community, friendship, and the joy of being active together. The school looks forward to making next year’s celebration even more meaningful and vibrant.

(Word count: 483)

The Galleries

“The Changing Landscape of School Discipline: Reflections from 25 Years in the Teaching Profession.”

SK GUAL TO'DEH - Discipline has always been the backbone of education, shaping students into responsible, respectful, and resilient individuals. However, in today’s educational landscape, maintaining discipline has become increasingly complex. Over my 25 years of teaching, I have witnessed significant transformations in students’ behaviour, influenced by technological advancement, changing family dynamics, and evolving societal values. While discipline remains a crucial element of effective learning, how it is understood and enforced must evolve with the times.

One of the most pressing issues today is the decline in students’ respect for authority and the weakening of traditional values. Many students struggle with self-control and emotional regulation, which often leads to disruptive behaviour in the classroom. The accessibility of digital devices and social media has also contributed to shorter attention spans and increased exposure to negative influences. Teachers today face the dual challenge of managing behaviour while simultaneously nurturing motivation and engagement in a fast-changing learning environment.

Parental involvement has also shifted. In the past, parents and teachers worked hand-in-hand to instil discipline. Nowadays, some parents tend to side with their children without fully understanding the situation, undermining the teacher’s authority. This lack of cooperation often sends the wrong message to students, suggesting that their actions carry no real consequences. The erosion of mutual respect between home and school has, in many cases, weakened the foundation of student discipline.

Despite these challenges, discipline remains vital in shaping students’ character and ensuring a conducive learning environment. Education is not merely about academic achievement—it is also about forming attitudes, values, and life skills. A well-disciplined student develops self-respect, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards others. In the modern era, discipline should not be perceived as punishment but as guidance that helps students make wise decisions and understand the impact of their actions.

To overcome today’s disciplinary challenges, schools must adopt a holistic approach. Teachers should focus on positive discipline strategies that encourage reflection and self-improvement rather than fear-based compliance. Programs that promote social-emotional learning (SEL) have proven effective in helping students manage emotions, build empathy, and resolve conflicts peacefully. At the same time, parental engagement should be strengthened through regular communication and collaboration. When parents and teachers share the same values and expectations, students are more likely to develop consistent discipline both at home and in school.

Moreover, school leaders play an essential role in fostering a culture of respect, fairness, and consistency. Discipline should be applied fairly, without bias, and every student should understand that rules are designed to protect and guide them, not to restrict their freedom. With strong leadership, dedicated teachers, and supportive parents, schools can restore discipline as a positive force that nurtures growth and character.

In conclusion, discipline in schools today faces new challenges, but it remains a timeless value in education. Through understanding, cooperation, and compassionate guidance, teachers can continue to shape disciplined, capable, and morally grounded individuals who are ready to face the future with integrity and confidence.

The Apple in the Perspective of Islam and Its Significance to Health

LUBOK JONG - In the teachings of Islam, fruits are considered among the blessings (ni‘mah) from Allah, created for the benefit and nourishment of humankind. The Qur’an frequently mentions various fruits as symbols of sustenance, purity, and divine generosity. While the apple (tuffāḥah in Arabic) is not directly named in the Qur’an, classical scholars and Islamic literature have long regarded it as a fruit that represents beauty, wisdom, and healing. In Islamic tradition, the consumption of fruits such as apples is associated with gratitude, moderation, and the maintenance of both physical and spiritual health.

The image shows a branch filled with smooth, round, pure white apples surrounded by fresh green leaves. These fruits appear perfectly shaped and glossy, creating a surreal and striking visual. Such white apples, however, are AI-generated or digitally created, as no naturally white apple variety exists in reality.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to eat wholesome and natural foods, as stated in the Qur’an: “Eat of the good things which We have provided for you” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:172). This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing pure and healthy foods, which includes fruits like apples. According to Tibb an-Nabawi (Prophetic Medicine), foods that are fresh, clean, and grown naturally contribute to bodily balance and strengthen the immune system. Although apples are not mentioned specifically in hadith collections, scholars of Prophetic Medicine such as Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah highlighted the general principle of maintaining health through moderate eating and the consumption of fruits rich in nutrients and natural sweetness.

From a scientific perspective, the apple has long been known for its health-promoting properties. Modern research supports the proverb “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and polyphenols, all of which contribute to cardiovascular health, digestive function, and immune system enhancement. According to a study by Boyer and Liu (2022), regular consumption of apples reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and certain types of cancer due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

In addition, apples can serve as an example of halalan tayyiban—foods that are lawful and wholesome. The concept encourages Muslims to consume food that is not only permissible but also beneficial to health and produced ethically. Eating an apple, therefore, becomes an act of both gratitude and mindfulness, reminding believers of the Creator’s wisdom in providing simple yet powerful sources of nourishment.

In conclusion, the apple, though not explicitly named in the Qur’an, embodies the Islamic values of moderation, health, and gratitude. It stands as a symbol of both physical and spiritual nourishment. The teachings of Islam and the findings of modern science align in emphasizing that consuming natural fruits such as apples contributes to overall well-being. Thus, in every bite of an apple, a Muslim is reminded of the balance between faith and health—between caring for the body as a trust from Allah and appreciating the divine bounty bestowed upon the earth.

(Word count: 457) 

Congratulations to the Newly Appointed Director of Education, Kelantan

SK GUAL TO'DEH - The entire teaching community of Sekolah Kebangsaan Gual To’Deh, Pasir Mas, extends our warmest congratulations to Puan Hjh Siti Norina Binti Muhamad, P.S.K., B.S.K., A.S.K., on her appointment as the Director of Education for the Kelantan State Education Department, effective 13 October 2025. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the continuous effort to strengthen and enhance the quality of education across the state.

Puan Hjh Siti Norina is well known for her dedication, integrity, and visionary leadership within the Ministry of Education. Her long-standing service in the field of education has demonstrated her commitment to empowering teachers and nurturing student excellence through innovation, inclusivity, and professionalism. Her leadership comes at a time when education in Kelantan continues to evolve, particularly with the growing emphasis on digital transformation, English language proficiency, and holistic student development.

Teachers at SK Gual To’Deh view this appointment as an inspiring moment for the teaching fraternity in Kelantan. Under her guidance, we are confident that educational institutions across the state will continue to progress toward higher standards of academic achievement and moral values. We believe her leadership will also encourage greater collaboration between schools, communities, and educational stakeholders to build a strong, forward-thinking learning ecosystem in line with the Malaysia MADANI vision.

The school community expresses great optimism that her leadership will bring renewed energy to various initiatives such as the Highly Immersive Programme (HIP), TS25, and continuous professional development for teachers. Her focus on teacher competency and readiness, particularly in English language education, aligns with the national aspiration to produce globally competent learners while preserving local identity and culture.

Once again, the teachers and staff of SK Gual To’Deh sincerely congratulate Puan Hjh Siti Norina Binti Muhamad on this well-deserved appointment. May her tenure as the Director of Education in Kelantan be filled with success, wisdom, and impactful contributions to the advancement of education for all.

"Congratulations and best wishes from the SK Gual To’Deh family – together we rise for educational excellence in Kelantan!"

A Journey of Passion, Teamwork, and Excellence

ENGLISH CENTER SK GUAL TO'DEH - Alhamdulillah, the final recording of the drama “Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup” has been successfully completed and officially registered as SK Gual To’Deh’s entry for the HIPMax Storyfest On Stage Competition 2025, organized under the Ministry of Education Malaysia (KPM). This achievement marks another milestone for our school, following our earlier success in the 3-Minute Public Speaking at the national level.

The photo was taken after they successfully completed their final performance today. The satisfaction on their faces is clearly visible as SK Gual To’Deh officially took part in the competition. In the picture are the characters Narrator, Mak Tanjung, Melur, Pekan, Batu Belah, and the Technician Assistant.

For more than two weeks, the dedicated team of young actors, guided by me Sir, worked tirelessly to bring to life one of the most cherished tales from Malay folklore. “Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup” tells the story of love, regret, and sacrifice—a narrative that carries deep moral values and cultural heritage. Through countless rehearsals and character studies, the students not only memorized lines but also learned to feel and live their roles, embodying the emotions and lessons within the story.

The preparation process was not merely about acting; it was an integrated learning journey. Each student was exposed to English communication, expressive arts, teamwork, and self-confidence. The integration of language learning within a performance-based activity such as drama has proven to be an effective approach to enhancing students’ English proficiency and creativity. According to recent educational research, drama-based pedagogy promotes emotional engagement, linguistic fluency, and intercultural awareness among learners (Rahman & Ismail, 2023). This aligns closely with the objectives of the Highly Immersive Programme (HIP), which aims to create a vibrant and interactive English-speaking environment in schools.

Throughout the process, the students demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and commitment. Their perseverance in practicing pronunciation, articulation, and expressive body language has shown how much potential lies within young learners when they are given meaningful opportunities to express themselves. The journey was filled with laughter, challenges, and learning moments that strengthened the bonds among team members. It was heartwarming to witness how each actor evolved from being shy and hesitant to performing confidently in front of the camera.

This participation at the national level signifies more than just a competition entry—it represents the spirit of excellence, collaboration, and perseverance among the teachers and students of SK Gual To’Deh. The project embodies the school’s dedication to holistic education, where language learning goes beyond textbooks and enters the realm of creative expression. Such initiatives also foster 21st-century skills—communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity—that are essential for future-ready learners.

This accomplishment marks an outstanding achievement for the students who live along the Malaysia–Thailand border. Despite the geographical challenges and limited exposure to national-level events, their dedication and determination have proven that rural students are equally capable of achieving excellence and showcasing their talents on prestigious platforms.

If selected among the top ten schools, the team will have the honor of performing live in Negeri Sembilan. This opportunity would not only serve as recognition of their hard work but also inspire other schools in Pasir Mas and beyond to embrace creative English learning through drama.

In conclusion, the journey of “Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup” is a testament to the power of passion, teamwork, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every student. The dedication shown by the young performers and their teachers reflects the essence of education—nurturing talent, preserving culture, and fostering confidence. May this effort bring pride to SK Gual To’Deh and continue to inspire excellence in English language education.

May we all pray for their success and hope that their performance shines brightly at the national stage. ✨

The Galleries