Teachers must inspire passion for learning: Cikgu Jais

KUCHING: Well-known writer Cikgu Jais Sahok has offered valuable advice to new teachers in the state, saying it is incumbent of them to inspire a passion for learning.

The retired educator, known for his innovative and heart-driven approach to education said teachers should teach students the HEBAT way.

The acronym HEBAT is derived from his book called ‘Teknik Pembacaan HEBAT’ where the ‘H’ stands for internalise (Hayati), ‘E’ for explore (Explorasi), ‘B’ for think (Berfikir), ‘A’ for level (Aras) and ‘T’ for high (tinggi).

“There is no need to teach so much because the human brain has already been nurtured by its parents. Hence, teachers’ job is to inspire learning, teach the student through the HEBAT way.

“For example, the ‘E’ — explore knowledge at your fingertips, explore through observing the surrounding and ponder about the subject of exploration.

“Wherever you go, encourage students to ask questions, to wonder about the world around them.

“In that process, they learn to think and reflect, which is where true learning happens,” he said.

He gave this advice to teachers appointed recently by the Public Service Commission (SPP), in an exclusive interview on Monday (Oct 21).

He urged them to inspire students to question their surroundings and reflect on the world around them.

Cikgu Jais also spoke about the vast potential of students who are still learning, comparing their minds to empty vessels that are eager to be filled with knowledge.

“As long as a question remains unanswered, it shows that students do not yet possess that knowledge. This means their potential to learn and acquire that knowledge is incredibly high, even higher than someone with a PhD.

“Can you, as a teacher, truly fill their minds? No. They are capable of learning independently, just like people who run at different speeds as some run fast, some slow, some reach the finish line quickly, others take longer. That’s perfectly normal.

“Every individual is born different, so Sarawak teachers, inspire learning,” said Cikgu Jais.