Fortunate Memories: Lessons and Experiences from Cherished Teachers

We all have cherished memories from our school days that stay with us forever. I consider myself fortunate that the teachers who played significant roles in my education are still in good health. Their lessons and guidance have left an indelible mark on my life.

One of these influential figures is my Malay language teacher from Sekolah Kebangsaan in Perlis, Dato’ Prof Rahman Shaari, a National Laureate. His health remains robust, and I am grateful for the foundation he provided in my early education.

I am also fortunate to have had two esteemed Ustaz during my Form 4 and Form 5 years—Datuk Nasaie Hj Ahmad and Tan Sri Dr. Yusof Nor. Both of them are still alive and well. It brings me great joy whenever I have the chance to meet them. Dr. Yusof Nor, in particular, had a memorable presence in the library. He was known for his strict discipline, often using a large ruler to tap students’ fingers if they were caught talking. He was considered one of the strictest teachers, yet his discipline instilled a strong sense of focus and respect in us.

Another memorable figure from my past is YAB Fisabilillah. I recall vividly how he would sternly admonish me whenever I was late. There was a particular instance when the late Pak Hj Suleiman called YAB to support my application to enter the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) in Gombak to study law. I was exhausted from walking to the Islamic Center next to the National Mosque, where YAB’s office was located. He was the Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department overseeing the Islamic Center and JAKIM at the time.

Hj Hasan ARQAM once asked me to enter YAB’s office. Without hesitation, I sat on a chair, only to be sternly told to stand up because I hadn’t asked for permission. My application for a recommendation was unsuccessful as YAB scribbled something illegible on the minute paper. The Dean of IIUM offered me to do a comparative study instead, but my passion was to study law.

This experience taught me a lifelong lesson: always wait for permission before sitting in the presence of important figures. The stern guidance from YAB has stayed with me, shaping my interactions and professional etiquette to this day. For that, I am eternally grateful.

I continue to send prayers and well wishes to YAB and his family. The lessons from my teachers and mentors have been invaluable, and their influence remains a guiding force in my life.