Catatan Cikgu Zulkarnain : Kemiskinan Bukan Penyebab Kegagalan

Jutaan insan yang berjaya pada hari ini merupakan golongan yang makan berlaukan garam, tidur berbantalkan lengan, ke sekolah meredah hutan, hidup dihimpit pelbagai kekurangan. Hati mereka sarat dengan duka dan derita apabila dihina, dicaci, dan dinista lantaran ketidakmampuan menyerlahkan dan menyalut diri dengan kemewahan duniawi. Mereka tekun menimba ilmu di sudut belakang bilik darjah tanpa memikirkan kemiskinan dan kepayahan hidup. Mereka sentiasa tabah dan redha dengan yang mereka miliki tanpa meminta daripada orang lain. Dengan kasut lusuh dan rabak, baju dan seluar koyak bertampal mereka selalu dipandang jijik oleh rakan tetapi mereka tetap berjiwa kental. Yang memandang kita dengan pandangan hina hanya kerana kita terlihat miskin itu hanyalah manusia bukannya Tuhan. 

Ramai pelajar miskin yang mempunyai impian yang kuat untuk keluar dari belenggu kemiskinan. Mereka memasang aspirasi untuk mengapai langit nan tinggi. Biar tanpa sokongan, dokongan mahupun harapan, mereka tetap mara ke hadapan tanpa hati dan jiwa yang terlalu sensitif dan merendah diri. Sedikit demi sedikit mereka mendaki dan mata insan yang dahulunya hanya memandang sesepet mata mula luas darjah bukaannya. Hidup ini suatu persaingan, nak berjaya terpulang pada kentalnya semangat bukan banyaknya fulus! 

Realiti yang saya sendiri alami, pelajar miskin yang berilmu dan berkeperibadian mulia, ramai yang sayang. Guru-guru selalu memberikan sokongan dan ramai rakan yang suka bersama dan membantu kita. Yang penting, cara kita membawa diri apabila bergaul dengan orang sekeliling. Jangan sesekali kita gunakan alasan kemiskinan itu untuk malas belajar, suka membuang masa dengan perkara yang tidak mendatangkan manfaat dan melakukan perbuatan yang melanggar peraturan sekolah. Jika kita selalu menimbulkan masalah, rasa kasih dan sayang yang ada di hati orang lain akan hilang. Mereka tidak membenci kita tetapi hati mereka sudah tiada rasa apabila memandang kita. 

Raaliti yang saya nampak pada hari ini, dari tafsiran mata seorang guru, saya kadang-kadang terkedu dan tersedu melihat sebilangan remaja yang rela mencorak noda dengan memilih untuk hanyut dalam arus dunia wahal perjalanan masih terlalu jauh untuk dinakhoda. Ramai pelajar-pelajar sekolah yang hanyut dengan godaan persekitaran yang menyebabkan mereka berubah watak dan tingkah laku. Mereka mabuk bercinta hingga lupa masa depan yang belum jelas haluan arahnya. Cinta itu datang dan pergi tetapi tiada manusia yang hidup bernasikan dan berlaukkan cinta kerana manusia yang sempurna perlukan keluarga yang bahagia. Kebahagiaan itu maknanya kita kena ada pekerjaan, tempat tinggal dan segala keperluan yang bukan boleh dibeli dengan cinta dan mimpi! Tuhan tidak akan memberi nikmatnya pada manusia yang tidak tahu memanfaatkan peluang untuk meraih ilmu di duniawi pinjaman ini. 

Hari ini kita mungkin tidak merasai susah payah hidup setelah gagal tetapi kita harus ingat, kita bukan hanya hidup hari ini dan esok kita akan mati. Kegagalan dalam pelajaran itu akan menyebabkan kita sesal hingga ke hujung nyawa kerana peluang dan ruang untuk kita banyak yang tertutup. Oleh itu, ketika peluang dan ruang terbuka luas di depan mata, berusahalah untuk masuk ke dalam agar kita tidak ditinggalkan. Hidup ini amatlah sukar untuk diramal tetapi tidak sukar untuk diperjuangkan andai kita tahu sebab musabab kita hidup dan dihidupkan!

MY MESSAGE TO YOU : THE LASTING POWER OF A TEACHER ADVICE

Teachers hold a sacred role in shaping the lives of their students. Beyond the classroom walls, beyond the textbooks and examinations, there lies a deeper responsibility: to guide, to nurture, and to offer words of wisdom that will help young people grow into responsible, mature, and morally upright individuals. Advice is the thread that connects a teacher’s heart to a student’s mind, and even if students may not immediately recognise its value, those words will one day resurface as guiding lights in their journey through life.

It is natural for students, especially the young, to resist advice. Adolescence often brings with it a sense of independence and the desire to challenge authority. When teachers offer reminders about discipline, kindness, respect, or hard work, some students may roll their eyes, dismiss the message, or even laugh it off. But teachers must not be discouraged by this temporary rejection. Advice, when given sincerely and consistently, has a way of planting seeds in the mind. Though it may not sprout overnight, with time and life’s experiences, those seeds begin to grow. A student who once ignored a teacher’s advice may, years later, find themselves echoing the same words to their own children or colleagues.

The truth is that young people are often immature. They lack the ability to fully distinguish between right and wrong, between actions that build their future and those that may destroy it. They are easily influenced by peers, by social media, and by fleeting pleasures. In such a stage of life, they need strong voices of reason—voices that come not from celebrities or influencers, but from the adults who stand beside them every day. Teachers, therefore, cannot afford to be silent. If we stop advising, correcting, and reminding our students, we leave them vulnerable to confusion and poor decision-making. Silence from a teacher is not neutral; it is harmful, for it deprives students of the moral compass they so desperately need.

Teachers are not only instructors; they are role models. Students observe not just what we say, but how we act, how we treat others, and how we respond to challenges. This is why our advice carries such weight. When a teacher speaks, the student does not only hear the words but also recalls the teacher’s integrity, patience, and sincerity. Teachers are often remembered not for the lessons they taught in mathematics or grammar, but for the moments they gave guidance, encouragement, or moral reminders. Such moments become etched in memory, shaping a student’s worldview long after they leave school.

The calling of a teacher is a divine trust. We are entrusted with young souls at their most vulnerable stage. God, in His wisdom, chose us for this role because He knows that teachers possess patience, compassion, and a pure heart. We are not perfect, but we carry within us the ability to see beyond grades and achievements, to care for the human being behind the student. Every piece of advice we give, every gentle correction, is not merely discipline but an act of love. To guide a student is to serve God, for in shaping them, we are building the leaders, parents, and citizens of tomorrow.

Advice is powerful because it transcends time. A teacher’s words may not bear fruit immediately, but they linger in the heart, waiting for the right season. One day, when a student faces a difficult choice or a moral dilemma, the advice once given will return, offering clarity and direction. It is in those moments that students truly realise the value of their teachers’ persistence.

Therefore, we must never tire of advising, guiding, and nurturing. To stop is to abandon our duty, and the consequences for our students’ futures would be dire. Even if they resist today, tomorrow they will thank us. Teachers must believe in the unseen harvest of their words, trusting that God has placed them in this role for a reason. Advice may seem small, but in reality, it is a legacy—a gift that endures long after the classroom is left behind.

In conclusion, teachers must continue to advise without ceasing. We are more than educators; we are guardians of young hearts and minds. Our advice is not wasted, for one day, every word spoken in sincerity will prove its worth. To teach is to plant seeds of wisdom, and to advise is to water them with love and patience. God made us teachers because He knew we could carry this noble responsibility with a pure soul. And so, we must never stop, for the future of our students depends on it.

教师劝诫的持久力量

教师在塑造学生人生中肩负着神圣的责任。超越课堂的围墙，超越课本与考试，还有一项更深远的使命：引导、培养，并给予智慧的箴言，帮助年轻人成长为有责任感、成熟且正直的人。劝诫是连接教师之心与学生之脑的纽带。即使学生当下未能立即意识到其价值，这些话语终有一天会在他们的人生旅程中重新浮现，成为指路的明灯。

学生，尤其是年轻人，对劝诫的抗拒是自然的。青春期往往伴随着独立意识以及挑战权威的欲望。当教师提醒他们要守纪律、懂善良、重尊重或勤奋学习时，有些学生可能会翻白眼、置之不理，甚至一笑了之。但教师不应因此而气馁。真诚而持续的劝诫，如同播种在心田的种子。它不会立刻发芽，但随着时间与人生经历，它终将生长。一个曾经忽视教师劝诫的学生，可能多年后会在自己教导孩子或同事时，重复相同的话语。

事实是，年轻人往往还不够成熟。他们缺乏清晰分辨是非的能力，不懂哪些行为能建设未来，哪些行为可能毁掉前程。他们很容易受同伴、社交媒体和短暂的享乐所影响。在这样的人生阶段，他们需要理性的声音——这种声音不应来自明星或网络红人，而应来自每天陪伴他们的成年人。因此，教师绝不能保持沉默。如果我们停止劝诫、提醒和指引，就会让他们陷入迷茫和错误的抉择。教师的沉默并非中立，而是有害，因为这剥夺了学生亟需的道德指南。

教师不仅是知识的传授者，更是榜样。学生观察的不仅是我们说的话，还有我们如何行事、如何待人、如何面对挑战。这就是为什么教师的劝诫格外有分量。当教师开口时，学生不仅听见了话语，还会想起教师的正直、耐心与真诚。许多时候，学生记住的并不是课堂上的语法或数学，而是教师曾给予的鼓励、提醒或道德上的教诲。这些瞬间会铭刻于记忆，远远超越校门，持续影响他们的人生观。

教师的使命是一种神圣的托付。我们被赋予责任，在他们最脆弱的阶段引导年轻的灵魂。上帝在祂的智慧中选择了我们担任教师，因为祂知道教师拥有耐心、慈爱和纯洁的心。我们并非完美，但我们有能力看见成绩背后的那个人，去关怀他们的成长。每一句劝诫、每一次温柔的纠正，都不仅仅是纪律，更是爱的体现。引导学生就是侍奉上帝，因为在塑造他们的同时，我们正在建设未来的领袖、父母和公民。

劝诫之所以强大，是因为它能够超越时间。教师的话语或许不会立即生效，但它会潜藏于心，等待合适的时机。某一天，当学生面临艰难选择或道德困境时，曾经得到的劝诫会再次浮现，给予他们清晰与方向。正是在这些时刻，学生才真正明白教师坚持不懈的价值。

因此，我们绝不能厌倦劝诫、引导和培养。若停止，便是放弃职责，而其对学生未来的影响将极其严重。即使他们今天抗拒，明天他们也会心怀感激。教师必须相信，那些看不见的收获终将到来，相信上帝将我们放在这个岗位自有其意义。劝诫或许看似微小，实际上却是一种遗产——一种超越时光的礼物。

总而言之，教师必须不断地劝诫学生。我们不仅是教育者，更是年轻心灵与思想的守护者。我们的劝诫不会白费，因为终有一天，每一句真诚的话都会证明其价值。教学就是播下智慧的种子，而劝诫则是用爱与耐心浇灌它们。上帝使我们成为教师，因为祂知道我们有一颗纯净的灵魂，能够承担这份高贵的责任。因此，我们绝不能停下脚步，因为学生的未来系于此。

Catatan Cikgu Zulkarnain : Sahabat Tulang Ikan

Sahabat yang kekal sukar untuk kita temui tetapi ada. Mata kita selalu dibutakan dengan ragam manusia sekeliling hingga kita terlepas pandang insan yang betul-betul jujur menjalinkan silaturrahim dengan kita. Allah mendatangkan orang yang betul untuk bersahabat dengan kita namun Allah tidak mengutuskannya secara terus, kita akan diuji kerana Allah mahu kita betul-betul mengenali dan menerimanya. Namun begitu, ramai yang gagal dalam  menghadapi ujian itu kerana mata kita selalu salah dalam menilai seseorang. Mata kita mudah terpana dengan permata yang berkilauan hingga tembaga usang yang kelam dibalut debu kehitaman tidak dipedulikan. Akhirnya, kita sukar menemui titik kebahagiaan kerana tidak terjumpa yang sempurna wahal dia pernah datang tetapi kita yang menolaknya hingga dia berlalu pergi tanpa jejak dan kesan. 

Dunia persahabatan itu seindah pelangi andai kita betul-betul bersahabat dengan orang yang tepat. Ujian yang betul-betul sukar untuk kita mencari sahabat sejati apabila kita mempunyai cita rasa yang sama sehingga berlakunya buruk sangka dan khianat. Impaknya, sayang bertukar benci, kasih menjadi caci, dan cinta berganti iri. Akhirnya, masing-masing mencari sahabat baharu dan membawa haluan sendiri. Baik bertahun-tahun yang disemai luluh kerana khianat sehari. Budi berkurun-kurun disulam, tenggelam dilanda banjir benci. Yang dahulu indah kini tidak berseri. Yang dahulu disayang kini dimusuhi. Ketika bulan persahabatan masih bersinar nasi sekepal makan berkongsi, ayam seketul juga dibahagi, dunia tiada siang tiada malam, indah berhari-hari. 

Asam garam dalam dunia persahabatan ini indahnya sementara, pedihnya hingga ke hujung nyawa. Sakit pedih dibuat sahabat sejati parahnya bagai ditusuk selumbar bisa. Tikamannya tepat menusuk hingga luruh tangkai hati. Cemburu seorang sahabat bisa membunuh tugu kepercayaan dan membakar menara harapan kerana kita disingkirkan tanpa sedar angkara fitnah dan syak wasangka. Dialah yang selalu bertanya khabar tetapi dialah juga yang menjadi onar tanpa kita sedar. Sahabat yang kekal dan abdi sudah lama mati, yang hadir itu semuanya sahabat basa basi. Datang ketika kita diperlukan, hilang ketika perut sudah kekenyangan. Ketika di depan kita, hormatnya melaut, di belakang kita dia musuh dalam selimut. Dunia persahabatan yang dibina boleh hancur gara-gara berebutkan "tulang ikan" dek kelaparan pangkat, harta, nama, dan perhatian!

MY MESSAGE TO YOU : THE EXPERIENCE OF HAVING SCAMMER-TYPE FRIENDS

I write sincerely from the heart, sharing an experience that has troubled me deeply: the experience of having scammer-type friends. Many people talk about being scammed online, through emails or phone calls, but what about when the scammer is someone you consider a friend? This is my story, and perhaps it is also yours.

I have a friend who has made it a habit to ask me for money. At first, I did not think much of it. Friendship, after all, means helping one another. When he asked for RM20 or RM50, I willingly obliged. On some occasions, he even asked for RM100 or more. Out of kindness, and because I valued the friendship, I gave him what he asked. But over time, a thought began to grow in my mind: what if I was not the only one? If every month he asked for money from several of his friends, the amount he collected would be substantial. Suddenly, I realised that this was not simply borrowing—it was a pattern of manipulation. This is what I classify as a scammer friend.

The problem with scammer-type friends is that their deception is subtle. They do not snatch money from you directly, nor do they make wild threats. Instead, they appeal to your trust, to your kindness, and to the social bond of friendship. They exploit your sense of loyalty for their personal gain. And because the amounts they request are often small, like RM20 or RM50, you are tempted to believe it is harmless. But when you add it up, the figure becomes shocking. Imagine a person asking RM50 from ten friends every month. That is RM500 a month, more than some people earn in additional part-time work. And yet, the scammer does not work hard for this income; he simply manipulates his friendships.

What makes this worse is that such a friend is not a true friend at all. If you were in trouble, would he rush to help you? I doubt it. He is a friend not because he values your companionship, but because he values your wallet. Friendship, in its truest sense, should be built on trust, respect, and mutual support. A scammer friend destroys that trust and reduces the relationship to a financial transaction. Slowly, you begin to feel used, as though your generosity has been taken for granted.

I have begun to reflect seriously on this matter. Life is too short to carry people who only bring weight and worry. Friends should uplift us, not drain us. If we allow scammer-type friends to stay in our lives, we allow them to continue deceiving us. They make our lives more difficult, and in return we gain nothing but frustration. Even if the amount they ask for is “only” RM50 or RM100, the principle remains the same: it is not right. True friendship is not measured by money, but by sincerity.

One of the most revealing things about such people is how they present themselves. On social media, they look perfectly fine. They post photos of outings, entertainment, and luxuries. It makes me wonder: is the money I gave being used for enjoyment, while I felt guilty for not helping? Our sincere intention to support them is, in reality, turned into their opportunity for laughter. They mock our kindness, perhaps not openly, but in their hearts they feel victorious because they have managed to deceive us.

The saddest part is that when misfortune strikes us, scammer-type friends will not be there. When we are in hardship, they will vanish, because their connection to us was never genuine. They do not see us as friends but as resources. And when the resource dries up, so too does their loyalty.

I share this experience not with bitterness, but with hope. My hope is that others will recognise this pattern early and protect themselves. Friendship should never be reduced to exploitation. We must learn to identify those who are true companions and those who are merely playing the role of friends for personal benefit. As for me, I am beginning to distance myself from such people. It is not easy, but it is necessary. Life should be filled with relationships that bring growth, support, and happiness, not those that drain us of money, energy, and peace.

So, to anyone reading this: be cautious. Reflect on your friendships. Be generous, yes, but also wise. And if you discover a scammer-type friend in your life, do not be afraid to walk away. You deserve better.

与骗子型朋友相处的经历

我真诚地写下这段文字，分享一段令我深感困扰的经历：与骗子型朋友相处。许多人谈论过在网络上被骗的故事，例如通过电子邮件或电话诈骗，但如果骗子恰好是你认为的朋友呢？这是我的故事，也许也是你的故事。

我有一个朋友，他习惯性地向我借钱。起初，我并没有太在意。毕竟，朋友之间应该互相帮助。当他开口要RM20或RM50时，我乐意答应。有时候，他甚至要求RM100或更多。出于善意，也因为我珍惜这段友情，我把钱借给了他。然而，随着时间的推移，一个念头开始浮现在我脑海：如果我不是唯一一个呢？如果他每个月都向几位朋友开口，那么他得到的钱数将是相当可观的。突然间，我意识到，这并不只是单纯的借钱——而是一种长期的操纵。这正是我所谓的“骗子型朋友”。

骗子型朋友的问题在于，他们的欺骗非常隐蔽。他们不会直接抢你的钱，也不会发出疯狂的威胁。相反，他们利用你的信任、你的善良以及友情的纽带。他们把你对忠诚的重视当成了他们牟利的工具。而且，由于他们通常只要求RM20或RM50这样的小数目，你往往容易觉得“无伤大雅”。然而，当你把它们加在一起时，数字却令人震惊。想象一下，如果一个人每个月向十个朋友要RM50，他就能轻轻松松拿到RM500。这比有些人兼职赚到的还多。而这笔钱，他根本不需要努力工作，只要操纵友情就能得到。

更糟糕的是，这样的朋友根本算不上真正的朋友。如果你遇到困难，他会立刻来帮你吗？我怀疑。他之所以和你做朋友，并不是因为他珍惜你的陪伴，而是因为他看重你的钱包。真正的友情应该建立在信任、尊重和相互支持之上。骗子型朋友却摧毁了这种信任，把关系变成了一场金钱交易。渐渐地，你会开始觉得自己被利用，好像你的慷慨成了理所当然。

我开始认真思考这件事。人生短暂，我们不该让这种只会增加负担的人留在身边。真正的朋友应当给予我们力量，而不是不断消耗我们。如果我们允许骗子型朋友留在生活中，就是允许他们继续欺骗我们。他们让我们的生活更难，而我们却什么都得不到。即使他们只要“区区”RM50或RM100，原则问题依然存在：这是不对的。真正的友情从来不是用金钱来衡量的，而是用真诚。

这种人的一个显著特征就是他们的伪装。在社交媒体上，他们看起来一切安好。他们发出外出、娱乐和奢侈享受的照片。这让我不禁怀疑：我给出去的钱，是否被用来享乐？我们出于真心去帮助他们，但实际上，他们却因为成功欺骗我们而暗自发笑。

最令人难过的是，当我们遭遇不幸时，这类骗子型朋友是不会出现的。当我们陷入困境时，他们会消失，因为他们与我们的关系从来不是真诚的。他们不把我们当作朋友，而只是当作一种“资源”。当这个资源枯竭时，他们的忠诚也随之消失。

我分享这段经历，并不是出于怨恨，而是出于希望。希望别人能及早识破这种模式，保护自己。友情绝不应被降格为一种剥削。我们必须学会分辨谁是真正的朋友，谁只是为了个人利益而假装的朋友。至于我，我正在慢慢与这种人保持距离。这并不容易，但却是必要的。生活应该充满那些带来成长、支持和快乐的关系，而不是那些让我们在金钱、精力和心灵上被掏空的人。

所以，我想对每一位读到这段文字的人说：请谨慎。反思你的友情。要慷慨，但也要明智。如果你发现生活中存在骗子型朋友，不要害怕远离他们。你值得更好的。

MY MESSAGE TO YOU : THE VALUE OF PRIVACY IN MORDEN LIFE

One of the most important lessons I have learned in life is not to reveal everything about myself to others. The more we disclose, the more vulnerable we become to envy, malice, and misinterpretation. Human nature can be unpredictable; people who seem to listen sympathetically may, in fact, harbour resentment or ill-will. As Goffman (1959) argued in his seminal work on self-presentation, individuals manage the information they disclose in order to protect their social identity and preserve dignity.

This does not mean that genuine friendship does not exist. There are indeed honest and good-hearted people who sincerely wish us well. However, discernment is essential. True friendships do not require constant contact; sometimes it is enough to exchange greetings once every two weeks or even once a month. Healthy friendships are not measured by frequency of communication, but by sincerity and trust.

Setting Boundaries in Communication

A useful strategy is to set boundaries when conversations become intrusive. If someone asks too many personal questions, one can redirect the discussion to neutral topics such as football, films, recipes, or health tips. This approach maintains sociability while protecting personal privacy. According to Petronio’s Communication Privacy Management Theory (2002), people draw “privacy boundaries” to regulate the flow of information. When these boundaries are crossed, trust may erode, leading to conflict.

From my own experience, individuals who are overly curious about private matters often prove to be the least trustworthy. Friendships can flourish in shared activities such as playing futsal or going to the gym without requiring deep personal disclosures. Maintaining a balance between openness and discretion is key to sustaining relationships while preserving one’s dignity.

Balancing Positive and Negative Thinking

Life is undeniably difficult without the wisdom to manage oneself. It is important to adopt both positive and negative modes of thinking depending on the situation. Positive thinking allows us to remain hopeful and resilient in the face of adversity. Negative thinking, when applied constructively, helps us to remain cautious and realistic. As Seligman (2011) highlighted in his work on positive psychology, authentic well-being requires not only optimism but also the capacity for critical judgement.

Above all, we must cultivate self-love. People who prioritise their own well-being and self-respect are more likely to succeed in the long run. Self-love is not narcissism but a recognition of personal worth. If we do not value our own privacy and dignity, others will not respect them either. Our life stories are our absolute right; they belong to us alone.

The Dangers of Oversharing in the Digital Age

Letting others speculate is often wiser than offering explanations. Time itself will reveal the answers. The price of self-respect is high, and we should not allow others to distort our stories simply because we volunteered them too freely. This is especially true in the digital age, where information is disseminated at the tap of a finger.

Unlike the past, when messages were delivered by pigeons or tin-can telephones, today’s communication is instant and global. A casual remark shared on social media can spiral into controversy, misrepresentation, or even online harassment. Boyd (2014) has shown how the permanence and visibility of digital content amplify the risks of oversharing. What seems harmless today may have unforeseen consequences tomorrow.

Conclusion

In conclusion, guarding our privacy is not an act of secrecy but of self-preservation. By managing what we share and with whom, we protect our dignity, relationships, and future. Friendships need not be built upon constant disclosures but upon mutual respect and sincerity. In a world where information travels faster than ever, discretion has become an essential virtue.

To protect our independence, mental health, and reputation, we must remember this simple principle: not every story needs to be told, and not every listener deserves to hear it.

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References

• Boyd, D. (2014). It’s Complicated: The Social Lives of Networked Teens. Yale University Press.

• Goffman, E. (1959). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Anchor Books.

• Petronio, S. (2002). Boundaries of Privacy: Dialectics of Disclosure. SUNY Press.

• Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being. Free Press.

MY MESSAGE TO YOU : CLOSING THE GENDER ACHIEVEMENT GAP IN MALAYSIAN EDUCATION

The Malaysian Education Development Master Plan (Pelan Induk Pembangunan Pendidikan Malaysia – PIPPM) sets an important target: closing the gender achievement gap between male and female students. As an educator, I must admit that male students are often left behind in academics compared to their female counterparts. Nevertheless, I am also aware that many male students continue to excel. When examined in terms of quality, the achievements of male and female students can be considered equal, and in certain cases, the performance of male students even surpasses that of female students.

Academic Underachievement Among Male Students

The gap, however, becomes evident when we look at national examinations such as the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM). Statistics from the Ministry of Education (MOE, 2022) show that the majority of students who do not qualify for a certificate are male. Many of these failures stem from weaknesses in Bahasa Melayu and History, both compulsory pass subjects. The underlying cause is not a lack of ability but rather an issue of attitude.

Many male students display immaturity and indifference towards education. Discipline issues are common — absenteeism, incomplete coursework, and a lack of seriousness in learning. These behavioural patterns significantly affect their performance. A study by UNESCO (2020) highlights that boys in many countries underperform academically due to lower levels of engagement and motivation in formal schooling.

Lifestyle and Attitude Factors

Another key factor is lifestyle. Male students are more prone to wasting time on unproductive activities. They spend hours at coffee shops or playing video games late into the night, leaving them tired and inattentive in class. While they are not inherently weak in academics, their achievements decline due to poor time management and lack of focus. Research by Abdullah and Kamaruddin (2021) found that male students in Malaysia tend to underperform compared to female students primarily because of lifestyle distractions rather than cognitive limitations.

Peer influence is another pressing concern. Young men are easily swayed by friends who encourage unproductive habits. This peer pressure culture makes it difficult for them to prioritise education. As a result, many fail to meet academic requirements and are unable to progress to higher education.

Redefining Masculinity Through Education

In my opinion, the complete package of becoming a “real man” is not only about physical strength or appearance but about being educated, healthy, and mentally resilient. A man with a six-pack but without education still lacks something essential. Education gives men dignity, credibility, and the ability to lead.

Men will eventually assume roles as heads of families and role models for their children. Without a solid educational foundation, they may struggle to provide guidance and stability. Although it is true that some individuals succeed financially without higher education, such cases should not be seen as the norm. The future economy is uncertain; what works today may no longer apply in ten years. As the World Bank (2021) notes, knowledge, adaptability, and continuous learning are critical in an era shaped by rapid technological change.

Therefore, young men who stop at SPM should rethink their decisions. Further education, whether at universities, technical institutions, or vocational colleges, provides opportunities for growth and resilience in an unpredictable world.

The Way Forward

To address this issue, multi-pronged strategies are needed. Schools should strengthen mentorship programmes, where male role models guide boys towards making better life choices. Parents must play a stronger role in instilling the value of education at home. Teachers, meanwhile, must adopt innovative teaching approaches that engage boys more effectively. According to OECD (2015), boys often respond better to practical, hands-on learning activities compared to abstract lessons. Tailoring pedagogy to suit their learning styles could narrow the gap.

Conclusion

The gender achievement gap is not about intelligence but about attitude, lifestyle, and priorities. Boys must realise that education is central to their future success. As future leaders, husbands, and fathers, they cannot afford to neglect their studies. Education provides stability, respect, and a platform for lifelong success.

So, to all young men out there: understand that being a “real man” is not just about strength or status, but about knowledge and wisdom. Come on boys, let us figure this out together. The future is in your hands.

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References

• Abdullah, N. & Kamaruddin, H. (2021). Gender and Academic Achievement in Malaysia: Attitudes, Motivation and Lifestyle Factors. Journal of Educational Research, 14(2), 45–61.

• Ministry of Education Malaysia (2022). Annual Education Report. Putrajaya: MOE.

• OECD (2015). The ABC of Gender Equality in Education: Aptitude, Behaviour, Confidence. Paris: OECD Publishing.

• UNESCO (2020). Global Education Monitoring Report: Inclusion and Education – All Means All. Paris: UNESCO.

• World Bank (2021). World Development Report: Data for Better Lives. Washington, DC: World Bank.

CATATAN CIKGU ZULKARNAIN : PENJUAL TONG GAS BERJIWA MURNI

Penjual tong gas sangat dekat dengan diri kita tetapi saya yakin ramai yang memandang kerjaya ini hanya sebelah mata. Mereka berpakaian selekeh dan memikul tong gas hanya dengan beralaskan sehelai tuala yang juga digunakan untuk mengesat peluh. Secara jujur, siapakah yang pernah memarahi penghantar dan penjual tong gas ini apabila mereka lewat sampai ke rumah kita? Situasi dimarahi oleh pembeli kerana lambat menghantar tong gas ini sudah menjadi asam garam bagi mereka. Akan tetapi, pernahkah kita terfikir akan pengorbanan yang mereka lakukan terhadap kita? Walaupun mereka menjual barangan dan perkhidmatan, mereka juga manusia biasa yang wajar dihormati dan dimuliakan.

Saya terdorong untuk menulis cerita ini selepas memikirkan tentang tulusnya hati dan ikhlasnya jiwa seorang usahawan tong gas yang selalu menghantar tong gas ke rumah saya. Dia tidak pernah menolak apabila diminta menghantar tong gas ke rumah saya walaupun pada masa saya menelefon dia berada jauh dari lokasi rumah saya. Dia hanya tidak menepati masa yang dijanjikan. Namun begitu saya maklum, untuk sampai ke rumah saya dari bandar Sibu memerlukan masa 30 hingga 45 minit, itupun jika tiada masalah kesesakan lalu lintas. Pada masa yang sama orang yang meminta khidmat mereka mungkin dari rumah yang dilalui semasa perjalanan maka dia perlulah singgah dahulu.

Tanggal 28 Ogos 2022, saya hubungi "Tauke" yang selalu menghantar tong gas ke rumah saya. Tong gas rumah saya sudah habis dua minggu lepas. Saya memasak menggunakan dapur elektrik. Namun begitu, saya tergerak untuk menukar tong gas pada hari itu. Petang itu hujan turun dengan lebat. Penjual tong gas itu menelefon saya selepas saya selesai menunaikan sembahyang mahgrib. Saya buka pintu pagar rumah untuk memudahkan dia masuk dan membancuhkan kopi untuknya seperti biasa. Yang peliknya, selalunya, "Tauke Tong Gas" itu akan hantar sendiri tong gas masuk ke rumah saya. Pekerja dia akan menunggu di dalam lori. Dia selalu memanggil saya dengan panggilan "Cikgu Rumah Cantik" atau "Cikgu". Petang itu pun begitu, sebaik sahaja sampai, dia terus pikul tong gas masuk ke rumah saya. Hujan masih lebat. 

Cikgu, boleh aku masuk? Kaki aku basah? Nanti lu rumah kotor! 

Masuk tauke, tak apa. Nanti saya mop. 

Dia pun terus masuk dan meletakkan tong gas di ruang khas di luar dapur memasak. Dia dah hafal pun lokasi tong gas itu. Selepas memasang dan mengunci kepala tong gas, saya pun hulurkan bayaran dan jemput dia minum dahulu macam biasa. Dia minum dengan laju. Dia beritahu selepas ini perlu memandu ke sebuah sekolah di luar bandar yang jauhnya lebih kurang 60 kilometer. Dia kata dia mesti hantar tong gas malam itu juga. Kawasan sekolah itu tidak ada kedai makan. Kalau dia tidak hantar cikgu itu tidak makan! Saya kata cikgu itu boleh makan mi segera. Saya cadangkan dia hantar esok sebab hujan lebat. Waktu pun sudah menunjukkan pukul 8:00 malam. Dia kata dia kasihankan cikgu itu. 

Terdetik di kepala saya, "Tauke Tong Gas" ini bukan bekerja untuk duit tetapi lebih mengutamakan pelanggan daripada kesihatan dan keselamatan diri. Saya terharu. Saya nasihatkan dia memandu dengan hati-hati. Jalan gelap. Dia terus masuk ke dalam lori sambil melambaikan tangan mengucapkan terima kasih. Hubungan silaturrahim saya dengan Tauke Tong Gas itu sudah lama, jika dia hantar tong gas kami selalu berbual. Dia suka memuji rumah saya walaupun saya tahu rumah dia lagi besar dan cantik. Dia sebenarnya jutawan. Orang yang menyintai kerjaya mereka sanggup mengorbankan apa-apa sahaja kerana itulah kepuasan bagi mereka.

Kalaulah aku serajin dia!

MY MESSAGE FOR YOU : THE MEANING OF INDEPENDENCE FOR A TEACHER

For me, as a teacher, the true meaning of independence is not merely about national sovereignty or freedom from colonial rule. It is about seeing my students succeed in their studies and their lives. Every achievement they make symbolises a liberation from ignorance, poverty, and hardship. I believe education is the most powerful tool to transform lives, and my role as a teacher is to nurture, guide, and inspire. This profession is not about chasing rank or position; it is about serving humanity with sincerity.

I am not wealthy; I do not possess millions in the bank. What I do have is knowledge — a treasure that I can share with my students. According to Freire (1970), education should be seen as a process of “conscientisation”, where individuals become aware of their potential to change their circumstances. When I see my students progressing, I feel that I am contributing to this process of human liberation.

The Challenges of Teaching

Teaching, however, is far from easy. It is a career that constantly tests one’s patience and resilience. I am often saddened when confronted with students who are stubborn, undisciplined, or unmotivated. I do not place the blame entirely on them, for I know that their parents send them to school with hope in their hearts. Parents want their children to grow into human beings of noble character and knowledge. As a teacher, I see it as my responsibility to make these dreams a reality.

This is why teachers must go beyond delivering lessons. They need to be dedicated educators who are willing to sacrifice personal time to mentor and socialise with their pupils. As Hattie (2009) emphasises, teacher-student relationships are among the most influential factors affecting student achievement. For me, that means spending long hours planning, setting targets, analysing data, and marking assignments.

The Humanising Mission

Much of my time is also spent motivating, advising, and encouraging students. Education is not merely about transferring knowledge but also about transforming lives. This process of “humanising” students — shaping their attitudes, values, and outlook on life — is difficult and requires patience. I feel disappointed when students refuse to change, particularly in terms of mentality. At times, I scold them. But I scold not out of hatred; I scold because I care. Sadly, some students may perceive my sternness as a lack of affection, but that is the paradox of this noble profession.

Dedication to the Profession

I intend to remain a teacher until retirement. I love this career deeply. I see it as a responsibility entrusted to me by God, and thus I must teach with honesty and sincerity. Teachers must never allow this profession to be tarnished by misconduct or corruption. As UNESCO (2021) highlights, teachers are “cornerstones of education systems,” and their integrity is fundamental to building trust in education.

The salary I receive each month is modest, but I believe it is fair in light of the sacrifices required. Still, I constantly engage in self-reflection: Have I truly given my best service to my students? Am I fulfilling the responsibility entrusted to me? I am only human, imperfect, but always striving to improve.

Conclusion

Ultimately, my greatest hope is that God blesses every effort I make to guide my students towards success in life. True independence, to me, is when each student I teach is able to stand tall, achieve their dreams, and live with dignity. When that happens, I know my sacrifices as a teacher have not been in vain.

As the African proverb states, “If you educate a man, you educate an individual. If you educate a woman, you educate a nation.” In truth, when teachers educate children — regardless of gender, race, or background — they liberate entire communities. That, to me, is the truest meaning of independence.

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References

• Freire, P. (1970). Pedagogy of the Oppressed. New York: Continuum.

• Hattie, J. (2009). Visible Learning: A Synthesis of Over 800 Meta-Analyses Relating to Achievement. Routledge.

• UNESCO. (2021). Teachers: Leading in crisis, reimagining the future. Paris: UNESCO.

• Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia (2023). Laporan Tahunan Pendidikan. Putrajaya: KPM.