PRIVATE educators play a pivotal role in supplementing the national education system, says state Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.
Speaking at the Malaysia Education Sustainability Awards 2024 at Olive Tree Hotel on Dec 1, Zairil underscored the importance of the educare industry, especially in today’s urban environment, where it combines education, care and character building for children.
“Having a place to send young kids, where they receive education, care and character building is truly important,” Zairil said.
He also emphasised the instrumental roles of the public and private education in shaping the country’s future.
At the ceremony, 27 educational institutions were awarded the ‘Educational Sustainability Award’, while 97 educators and staff were honoured with the ‘Educator Excellence Sustainability Award’ and ‘Evergreen Service Award’ respectively.
Zairil praised the recipients for their achievements and contributions.
“Your achievements are a huge inspiration to all of us. Your commitment to excellence demonstrates what is possible when passion meets purpose.
“I have always believed that passion is the most important element in education. Anyone can teach, but what truly makes the difference is the quality of the teachers and the passion they bring to their work.
“This passion is what shapes educational outcomes. Many studies have shown that the most significant factor affecting a student’s success is the teacher.
“You do not have to be the smartest teacher, but if you are passionate and genuinely care for your students, it will positively influence their growth and development,” he added.
Zairil also expressed hope that teachers in the private education sector in Penang would encourage more students to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
“Our country needs more talent in STEM industry due to the demands of the electric and electronics (E&E) and manufacturing industries in Penang,” Zairil said.
The event was co-organised by the Persatuan Majikan Pusat Pendidikan Malaysia (PMPPM) and the Persatuan Pengusaha Institusi Pendidikan Pulau Pinang (PPIPP), with support from the Ministry of Education Malaysia’s Private Education Division.
Zairil, who is also the Tanjong Bungah assemblyman, thanked the division for its role in maintaining standards and ensuring safety in private educational facilities.
PMPPM president Dr Lee Eng Wah, stressed the importance of registered educational institutions and childcare centers.
Lee said registration is not just a legal requirement, but also ensures quality, safety, and accountability.
“By operating under a regulated framework, we can safeguard parents’ rights and provide the best environment for the growth of children.
“However, achieving full registration is challenging due to factors, such as lack of information, limited resources, or complicated processes.
“Therefore, support from the authorities is greatly needed. With assistance and simplified procedures, we can ensure that all operators are registered and regulated.
“Such collaboration not only increases public confidence but also raises the overall standards of the education and childcare systems,” Lee added.
PPIPP chairman Dr Lee Beng Suat urged all private educational institutions to obtain valid permits from the state Education Department and the Social Welfare Department (JKM).
“This certification helps improve education standards and shows our commitment to quality and trust for students and parents.
“It symbolises our dedication to education and our responsibility to the community,” Dr Lee said.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Nuratikah Rahmat