A Letter to My Son, Hannan Haikal
Today marks a significant milestone in your life, Hannan Haikal — the beginning of your final year practicum at SMK Bandar Baru Ampang, Kuala Lumpur. As you step into this new chapter, my heart is filled with a mix of pride, hope, and deep reflection. Seeing you put on the teacher’s attire, stepping into a classroom not as a student, but as a role model, fills me with emotions that are difficult to express in words.
You are now closer than ever to becoming what you have worked so hard to be — an educator. A teacher. A shaper of young minds. It is not just a profession, Hannan; it is a calling. And I believe, with all my heart, that you have been called for this. I have watched you grow from a curious little boy into a young man with passion, resilience, and dedication. You are now carrying the torch of knowledge forward, and with that, the responsibility to touch lives, inspire growth, and open doors for your future students — just like many teachers have done for you.
As a teacher myself, I know the challenges that lie ahead. Teaching is not always easy. It demands patience when students struggle, strength when results are slow, and empathy when students bring their life burdens into your classroom. But I also know that teaching is one of the most rewarding journeys. The sparkle in a student’s eyes when they finally understand, the gratitude that follows long after they leave your class, and the legacy that grows with every child you help — that is the true reward.
Your journey through Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia has brought you here, and I hope you see this practicum not only as a requirement, but as a doorway to explore your true potential. Listen to your students, observe your mentors, and always remain humble. There is no shame in learning from mistakes; in fact, they are our greatest teachers. Keep your heart open and your mind eager — because every day in school is a chance to grow, both professionally and personally.
Son, I want you to know that your journey is not only for you. Whether you realize it or not, you are paving the way for your younger siblings too. You are their role model. They look up to you and they see in you what is possible with effort, focus, and faith. Your actions, your attitude, your discipline — they are all silently guiding them. You are the eldest, and that responsibility is not small. But I see how you carry it with grace, and for that, I am grateful.
Sometimes I think about the time I have left in this world. None of us know how long we will live, and I have come to accept that life is not measured by years alone, but by the love we give, the lessons we share, and the people we raise. If my time comes tomorrow or ten years from now, I want you to know this: you have already made me proud. More than any award or recognition, your determination and heart are what make me proud to be your father.
My wish for you, Hannan, is simple. I want you to be a good son — which you already are — and a kind person. I want you to continue spreading light wherever you go. Be a source of comfort and hope to others. Stay grounded. Stay grateful. No matter how far life takes you, never forget your roots. Remember our family, remember our struggles, and remember that everything you are becoming is because you dared to dream and worked hard to reach that dream.
As you walk through the halls of SMK Bandar Baru Ampang, know that my prayers walk with you. I pray that you find joy in your teaching, that you learn from the best, and that you become the kind of teacher who leaves a mark on his students — not just in their grades, but in their lives.
May your practicum journey be full of lessons, laughter, and meaningful experiences. May it prepare you well for the path ahead. And most of all, may it remind you of your purpose: to educate, to inspire, and to lead.
And when you feel tired, uncertain, or overwhelmed, just remember this — you are never alone. I am here, cheering you on, quietly but proudly from a distance. I am your father, and nothing brings me more joy than seeing you chase your dreams with courage and sincerity.
With all my heart