Standing in Solidarity with Palestine: A Reflection on History and Support

This morning, I feel compelled to express my unwavering support for the people of Palestine. Though I may not possess the material wealth or resources to offer direct aid, my heart, prayers, and sincere intentions remain firmly aligned with their struggle. Support is not always measured in financial or physical contributions; it is also about awareness, solidarity, and moral courage. In this sense, standing with Palestine is not just a political statement but also a deeply human one.

I stand in full solidarity with Palestine. Though I cannot give material aid, my heart, prayers, and voice remain with them. Supporting justice and freedom for Palestinians is my unwavering moral commitment.

The history of Palestine is one of resilience, suffering, and steadfastness in the face of adversity. Since the early 20th century, Palestinians have endured displacement, conflict, and systemic injustice. The creation of the state of Israel in 1948, known among Palestinians as the Nakba or “catastrophe,” saw hundreds of thousands of Palestinians driven from their homes, villages destroyed, and families scattered across borders. What began as a political conflict soon evolved into one of the most pressing humanitarian issues of modern times.

For decades, Palestinians have lived under occupation, facing restrictions on movement, loss of land, and limited access to education, healthcare, and basic human rights. The situation in Gaza has become even more dire, with frequent blockades and military escalations leaving civilians in despair. Yet, amidst this ongoing hardship, the Palestinian people have demonstrated extraordinary resilience, maintaining their culture, identity, and hope for freedom.

Malaysia has been among the nations most vocal in supporting Palestine. Since the mid-20th century, Malaysians from all walks of life—politicians, activists, and ordinary citizens—have expressed unwavering solidarity. This support is rooted not only in shared faith but also in shared humanity. Malaysia has consistently raised the issue of Palestine on international platforms, provided humanitarian aid, and condemned violations of human rights.

One of the most inspiring symbols of this solidarity is the participation of Malaysians in humanitarian missions to Gaza. These missions, often carried out under dangerous conditions, represent the sacrifices made by people who are willing to risk their lives to ensure food, medicine, and supplies reach those in need. Their courage is a reminder that compassion transcends national borders and that justice is a universal responsibility.

While I may not be physically present in these missions or capable of financial assistance, my support is unwavering. To stand with Palestine is to stand with justice, freedom, and humanity. It is to recognize the pain of families torn apart, the dreams of children denied, and the hope of a nation struggling to reclaim its dignity.

In conclusion, supporting Palestine is more than a political stance; it is a moral obligation. History will remember not only the suffering of the oppressed but also the silence of those who stood by. Therefore, I choose not to remain silent. My heart and voice are with Palestine, today and always.

Reviving Malay Folklore Through English: A Journey with ‘Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup’

SK GUAL TO'DEH - This morning marked the beginning of our drama practice for the play Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup. Although it is currently the school holiday, I still made my way to school with great enthusiasm to train the students and prepare the stage props for this meaningful project. My strong interest in drama and storytelling has inspired me to guide my pupils in participating in the HIPMaX: Malaysian Folklore StoryFest – Tales on Stage 2025, a competition proudly organized by the English Language Teaching Centre (ELTC).

The six actors who will bring the play Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup to life. They are Mak Tanjung, Melor, Pekan, Batu Belah, Narrator and Assistant Technician.

This is the preparation for creating props in the village area, and we are still looking for ideas on how to make the Batu Belah.

For this drama, I have chosen six talented pupils to take part in the performance. The characters include Mak Tanjung, Melur, Pekan, Batu Belah, a Narrator, and a technical assistant. Each role is significant in bringing the story to life, and I am deeply impressed with the enthusiasm these young learners have shown during the early stages of rehearsal. Managing this team is certainly not an easy task, as it requires patience, creativity, and coordination. Yet, I firmly believe that the students selected have the ability, talent, and determination to make this production successful.

The decision to perform Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup is not merely for the sake of joining a competition. It reflects my personal mission to preserve and promote traditional Malay folklore in a modern and meaningful way. Folklore stories, which once played a central role in transmitting values, culture, and wisdom, are now at risk of being forgotten by younger generations. By staging this folklore in English, my students not only strengthen their language proficiency but also rediscover the richness of our local cultural heritage.

The HIPMaX competition provides the perfect platform to merge these two important elements: language learning and cultural appreciation. Students are allowed to use English creatively and engagingly while showcasing the timeless values embedded in Malay folklore. The themes of family love, sacrifice, and responsibility in Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup are universal, allowing young learners to relate to the story even while performing it in a second language.

Throughout the preparation, I encourage my students to reflect on the moral lessons of the play and to express them confidently in English. This process not only builds their linguistic competence but also fosters teamwork, self-discipline, and creativity. Moreover, the use of English as the medium of storytelling ensures that the beauty of Malay folklore can reach a wider audience, transcending linguistic boundaries.

As the deadline approaches—videos must be submitted online before 12 October 2025—our rehearsals will continue with dedication and passion. Despite the challenges, I am proud of the commitment displayed by my students. I am confident that this project will not only contribute to their growth as English learners but also instill in them a lifelong appreciation of our traditional stories.

In essence, this effort signifies more than just a school competition. It represents a small but meaningful step toward upholding Malay heritage through the universal language of English, ensuring that our treasured folklore continues to live on in the hearts of future generations.

Pigeons in the Sky, Freedom in Our Hearts

SK GUAL TO'DEH - The morning air was filled with excitement as the school prepared for a meaningful ceremony in conjunction with the celebration of national unity. Teachers, parents, and students gathered in the school compound, their faces glowing with pride and anticipation. The highlight of the event was the symbolic release of white pigeons by the Headmaster and the President of the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG). With gentle hands, both leaders opened the cages, allowing the birds to soar freely into the sky. The fluttering wings and graceful flight of the pigeons immediately drew admiration from the crowd. This act represented the values of freedom, harmony, and peace for all Malaysians, regardless of race, culture, or religion.

The Headmaster and the PIBG President held the pigeons gently in their hands before releasing them into the sky, symbolizing freedom, peace, and unity for all Malaysians, as students watched with joy and admiration.

The students were thrilled, clapping and cheering loudly as they watched the pigeons disappear into the clear blue sky. For many of them, it was their first time witnessing such a symbolic gesture, and the sight left a lasting impression. Teachers took the opportunity to explain the meaning behind the act, reminding students that freedom is a privilege that must be cherished and protected through unity and respect. The pigeons, soaring higher and higher, seemed to embody the aspirations of the nation toward progress and harmony.

Here is the pigeon that was released.

As the ceremony continued, another significant moment took place. From the upper floor of the school building, the flags of all 14 states in Malaysia were proudly hoisted. The colourful flags fluttered beautifully against the morning breeze, creating a picturesque view that symbolized the strength of unity in diversity. Each flag represented not only a state but also the people, traditions, and heritage that collectively shaped the identity of the nation.

The atmosphere was electrifying as the students sang patriotic songs with enthusiasm, waving their small Jalur Gemilang flags. The sense of pride and togetherness was undeniable. Parents and teachers looked on with joy, knowing that such activities instilled in the younger generation a deep love for the country.

The event concluded with speeches from both the Headmaster and the PIBG President, emphasizing the importance of unity, freedom, and mutual respect. Their words resonated with everyone present, serving as a reminder that the true strength of Malaysia lies in its people’s ability to live in harmony. The ceremony ended on a high note, leaving a memorable experience for the school community.

Galleries

SK Gual To’Deh Marks the Closing of Independence Month with a Grand Celebration

SK GUAL TO'DEH - The closing ceremony of Independence Month 2025 at SK Gual To’Deh was nothing short of spectacular. The event, held on the school grounds, reflected the deep sense of patriotism and unity among students, teachers, and the local community. With a blend of traditional elements and creative highlights, the celebration brought to life the spirit of Malaysia’s independence and the values of freedom and harmony.

The day began with a unique and heartwarming village parade. Students, teachers, and community members marched proudly from the village entrance into the school compound, carrying the Jalur Gemilang and wearing traditional attire alongside the national colors. The parade symbolized the close relationship between the school and the surrounding community, showcasing the theme of togetherness in celebrating the nation’s independence.

Upon arrival, the participants were greeted with applause and cheers, setting the tone for a joyous day. The school’s headmaster then delivered a meaningful speech, reminding everyone of the struggles and sacrifices of Malaysia’s past leaders and citizens in gaining independence. He emphasized the importance of instilling patriotism in the younger generation, ensuring that they appreciate the freedom they enjoy today and carry forward the responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. His words deeply resonated with the audience, reinforcing the significance of remembering history while shaping the future.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the release of birds, an act symbolizing freedom and hope. As the birds soared into the sky, the crowd erupted in applause, taking the moment as a reminder of Malaysia’s independence journey and the bright future that lies ahead. The sight of the birds flying high also served as a metaphor for students to dream big, spread their wings, and achieve success in their education and beyond.

Another memorable moment was the special gimmick that featured the descent of 14 flags from the upper floor of the school building. Each flag represented one of Malaysia’s states and federal territories, symbolizing unity in diversity. As the flags gracefully dropped, the crowd was filled with pride, celebrating the strength and harmony that have long been the backbone of the nation. The visual spectacle was not only creative but also educational, reminding the students of the importance of recognizing and respecting every part of Malaysia.

The program concluded with patriotic songs sung by the students, echoing throughout the school compound. The entire celebration reflected the values of respect, unity, and love for the country, making it a meaningful closure to Independence Month.

The grand event at SK Gual To’Deh will certainly be remembered as a significant moment where the school, students, and community came together to celebrate freedom with pride and joy.

SK Gual To’Deh Prepares for the Closing Ceremony of Independence Month

SK GUAL TO'DEH is now in full preparation to hold the Closing Ceremony of Independence Month 2025, which will take place on Wednesday, 24 August 2025. This annual celebration, organized in conjunction with Malaysia’s Independence Month, serves not only as a patriotic event but also as a meaningful platform to instill the spirit of unity, love for the nation, and respect for the struggles of past generations among students and the school community.

The fourteen state flags—each representing one state of Malaysia—will gracefully descend from the upper floor of the school building

The highlight of this year’s ceremony will be the grand opening gimmick, which symbolizes freedom, harmony, and national pride. As part of the official opening, a flock of birds will be released into the sky, representing the values of liberty and peace cherished by all Malaysians. Alongside this, fourteen state flags—each representing one state of Malaysia—will gracefully descend from the upper floor of the school building. This symbolic act is designed to reflect Malaysia’s rich diversity and the strong bond of unity that ties together its people from every corner of the nation.

In order to make the occasion more memorable and inclusive, SK Gual To’Deh has also prepared for a live streaming session on YouTube, hosted through the channel Mrkopikarat. This initiative aims to provide an opportunity for wider participation, especially for educators, students, and community members who may not be able to attend physically. By broadcasting the event online, the school embraces the use of digital platforms as a way to expand its reach and impact, ensuring that the spirit of Merdeka can be shared beyond the school compound.

All teachers under the Pasir Mas District Education Office (PPD Pasir Mas) are warmly invited to witness the celebration virtually. The organizing committee hopes that this online engagement will strengthen the connection among schools within the district, while also showcasing the creativity and commitment of SK Gual To’Deh in nurturing patriotism among its young learners.

The program will not only focus on ceremonial aspects but will also include performances, speeches, and cultural elements prepared by students and teachers. These activities are designed to highlight the themes of independence, resilience, and national identity in ways that are both educational and entertaining. Through such efforts, students are encouraged to appreciate Malaysia’s historical journey, honor the sacrifices of freedom fighters, and contribute positively to the nation’s future.

As Malaysia approaches another Merdeka Day, SK Gual To’Deh’s closing ceremony stands as a reminder that independence is not merely a historical milestone but a living legacy that must be celebrated and preserved. By combining tradition, symbolism, and modern technology, the school hopes to create a meaningful experience that inspires pride, unity, and love for the country among all who participate—whether in person or through the live broadcast.

My Daily Routine and Journey as a Teacher

SK GUAL TO'DEH - Every morning, my day begins quietly, often with a simple breakfast in my room and at the canteen. This small ritual helps me mentally prepare for the day ahead. Teaching is not just a career for me; it is a lifelong journey of dedication and service. Having spent nearly twenty-five years in this profession, I can confidently say that being a teacher has shaped my life in ways that are profound and meaningful.

I'm having breakfast with Nasi Berlauk in my room. The typical Malay morning routine get the type of breakfast before start a new life.

My daily routine revolves around my students. As soon as I step into the school compound, I am reminded of the purpose of my work: to nurture young minds and guide them towards knowledge and values that will serve them in the future. The classroom is where I find my greatest sense of fulfillment. It is a place of exchange—ideas, laughter, questions, and sometimes challenges. But through every lesson, I strive to make learning meaningful and enjoyable for my students.

After decades in education, I have come to understand that teaching is not about perfection, but about connection. I believe in building trust between myself and my students. There is no space for corruption or hidden agendas; the relationship is purely about knowledge, growth, and respect. Every interaction I have with my students is grounded in honesty and sincerity. This bond has carried me through the years, making my teaching journey not just a profession but a calling.

The school environment is where I have grown, not only as an educator but also as a human being. Each year brings a new group of learners, each with their unique strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. To meet their needs, I have had to constantly adapt, learn, and innovate. Education is never static; it evolves with society, technology, and the aspirations of the younger generation. I consider myself a lifelong learner because, while I teach, I also learn from my students every single day.

Spending almost twenty-five years at school has taught me patience, resilience, and compassion. There were moments of challenge, especially when resources were limited or when students struggled with motivation. Yet, these moments were also opportunities for me to reflect on my role and find creative ways to inspire them. Teaching is not merely about transferring knowledge; it is about shaping character and instilling values that extend beyond the classroom.

Looking back on my journey, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. Teaching has been my way of contributing to society, one student at a time. The smiles of my students, their progress, and their achievements are my greatest rewards. As I continue this journey, I hold on to the belief that education is the most powerful tool to change lives. My role as a teacher is to ensure that this tool is placed in the hands of every student who walks into my classroom.

A Journey with My Thai Name: Khun Matt (คุณแมตต์)

LUBOK JONG - Learning a new language is more than just memorizing vocabulary or practicing grammar—it is a journey of identity, culture, and self-expression. For me, this journey began when I decided to learn Thai online. Over time, as I familiarized myself with the sounds, rhythms, and symbols of the Thai language, I felt inspired to adopt a Thai name that could represent me in this new chapter of learning. That name is Khun Matt or คุณแมตต์.

The plaque of my Thai name, คุณแมตต์, that I bought on TikTok is beautifully designed with elegant lettering, polished edges, and a refined finish, making it a unique symbol of my identity and language journey.

The name carries personal meaning. “Khun” is a polite title in Thai, showing respect, much like “Mr.” in English, while “Matt” reflects my own given name, bridging both my original identity and my new one in Thai. When I see or hear the name คุณแมตต์, I feel a sense of belonging, as though I am slowly becoming part of the Thai-speaking community I admire so much.

Today was a special milestone in this journey. Through TikTok, I came across a seller who creates personalized plaques, and I ordered one with my Thai name beautifully engraved. When it arrived, I was filled with joy and excitement. The plaque was more than just an object—it was a symbol of dedication, motivation, and progress. Seeing my Thai name carved so elegantly reminded me of why I started learning in the first place: to connect, to grow, and to express myself in a new language and culture.

My dream is to speak, write, and read Thai fluently, and eventually create YouTube content entirely in Thai. I want to share stories, experiences, and knowledge with an audience that appreciates the beauty of the language. It will not be an easy journey, but every step—whether learning a new phrase, practicing pronunciation, or simply recognizing letters—brings me closer to my goal. The plaque serves as a daily reminder that this dream is possible with effort and perseverance.

Language learning is truly a lifelong adventure. For me, adopting the name Khun Matt and proudly displaying it on a plaque marks not just progress in Thai, but also the growth of my confidence and identity. It is a journey I cherish deeply, and I look forward to the day when I can speak Thai with ease and share my passion with the world.

Celebrating the Success of the Highly Immersive Programme (HIP) 2025 at SK Gual To’Deh

SK GUAL TO'DEH - Today marked a memorable milestone for SK Gual To’Deh as the school held a certificate presentation ceremony for the Highly Immersive Programme (HIP) 2025. The event, which took place during the morning assembly, celebrated the dedication, creativity, and enthusiasm of both teachers and pupils who actively participated in various activities throughout the programme.

The headmaster received a certificate as the host of HIP 2025 from PKKO, a recognition awarded by the Kelantan State Education Department and the Pasir Mas District Education Office.

Among the pupils proudly receiving their certificates of participation in the 5th Highly Immersive Programme (HIP) was a joyful group, presented personally by the headmaster, Mr. Bakri Bin Hj Md Nor, during the school assembly ceremony.

The HIP initiative, now in its fifth year at SK Gual To’Deh, has become a cornerstone in promoting English proficiency and confidence among the school community. The programme provided pupils with diverse opportunities to use English in meaningful contexts, ranging from storytelling and choral speaking to action songs and public speaking. Teachers, too, were actively engaged through workshops, competitions, and classroom innovations that enhanced the overall teaching and learning of English.

This year’s programme was particularly significant as it highlighted the collaboration and commitment of the entire school community. The teachers displayed their readiness to design engaging learning activities, while the pupils showed remarkable courage and creativity in using English beyond the classroom. The combination of these efforts resulted in a vibrant learning environment where English was not only taught but also lived and experienced.

The certificate presentation ceremony was a proud moment for many. Pupils received recognition for their active involvement in various competitions, including Muay Thai, Traditional Dance, English Short Conversation, Public Speaking, Action Song, Dikir Barat, and Duet Song. Younger pupils were celebrated for their participation in action songs and storytelling, while older pupils were praised for their leadership roles in short conversation and public speaking activities. Teachers, too, were honoured for their tireless efforts in mentoring pupils and ensuring that every activity was both educational and enjoyable.

The headmaster, in his speech, congratulated all the participants and reminded the audience that the true success of HIP lies not only in the certificates received but in the confidence gained and the skills developed. He emphasized that the ability to communicate effectively in English is an essential asset for the future, especially in a rapidly globalizing world.

The success of HIP 2025 also reflects the strong support from parents and the wider community. Many parents expressed their pride in seeing their children perform confidently in English, something that was once considered a challenge. Their encouragement played a crucial role in motivating pupils to embrace the programme wholeheartedly.

In conclusion, the HIP 2025 certificate presentation ceremony at SK Gual To’Deh was more than just an event to hand out certificates; it was a celebration of growth, resilience, and achievement. It demonstrated how a school, through dedication and teamwork, can create a positive culture of English learning that empowers both teachers and pupils. With this success, SK Gual To’Deh looks forward to continuing its journey of excellence in English education in the years to come.

Galleries

My Amazing Journey at The Malaysian Folklore Storyfest 2025

KUALA TERENGGANU - From 9 to 11 September 2025, I was given the golden opportunity to attend The Malaysian Folklore Storyfest 2025 at the Grand Puteri, Kuala Terengganu. The event was organized under the HIPMax programme by the ELTC, Ministry of Education Malaysia (KPM), focusing on enhancing English language learning through creative and cultural approaches. What made the experience even more special was the participation of officers from SISC+, along with selected English teachers representing every district in Kelantan. The workshop also brought together passionate educators from Terengganu and Pahang, creating a vibrant platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration.

After the final workshop session, all participants gathered for a memorable photo session. Smiles, laughter, and a sense of accomplishment filled the room as we posed together, capturing not just pictures but also the spirit of unity and collaboration. The session marked a meaningful conclusion, reminding us that the knowledge gained will continue to inspire teaching and learning in our schools.

This was the first time I joined such a course, and I must admit, it was truly eye-opening. The main highlight was learning the art of stage performance, where we were guided step by step on how to present folklore stories in an engaging, dramatic, yet educational way. Acting, which I once thought was only about memorizing lines, turned out to be much more profound. We were trained to use voice projection, body language, facial expression, and movement to bring stories to life. I realized that storytelling, when performed theatrically, is not just entertainment—it is a powerful medium of teaching and learning.

Throughout the three days, I learned the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone. Standing on stage, speaking confidently, and expressing emotions are not skills that come naturally to every teacher. Yet, through the supportive guidance of the facilitators and the enthusiastic participation of my peers, I discovered that acting is closely linked to effective teaching. Just as an actor captures the attention of the audience, a teacher must captivate students in the classroom. This parallel reminded me that teaching is, in many ways, a performance—one that requires preparation, creativity, and passion.

Equally enriching was the chance to interact with fellow participants. Each teacher came with unique perspectives and experiences, which broadened my understanding of how folklore and drama can be adapted to different school contexts. The discussions were inspiring, and I felt a strong sense of unity in our mission: to bring English alive for our students through the magic of stories.

As the workshop concluded, I reflected on its educational significance. Folklore represents cultural wisdom, while drama represents expression. Combining the two within the HIPMax framework provides students with an enjoyable, meaningful, and memorable learning experience. More importantly, the skills we gained as teachers—confidence, creativity, and collaborative spirit—are tools that will empower us long after the Storyfest.

I returned from Kuala Terengganu with renewed enthusiasm. I am now eager to bring these techniques into my school, to guide my students in becoming storytellers themselves. By doing so, I hope not only to improve their English proficiency but also to nurture their appreciation for our rich cultural heritage. Truly, The Malaysian Folklore Storyfest 2025 was more than a workshop—it was a journey of growth, creativity, and discovery.

The short video

Watch the presentation for each group here.

1. Ice Breaking

2. The Mat Jenin Group

3. The Legend of Mahsuri Group

4.

5.

Note:" Please share more photos in Telegram so I can upload to the blog. 

Galleries