Two Heads in One Classroom: A Step Forward

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 19, 2025: “Two heads are better than one,” as the saying goes — and soon, this may become a familiar sight in Malaysian classrooms. The Ministry of Education (KPM) plans to introduce the team-teaching, or co-teaching, approach beginning in 2027.

Experts have already called it a timely move to strengthen teaching and learning (PdP), especially as classrooms today are more diverse than ever.

Under this approach, two teachers work together in the same classroom to support students with different needs, strengths, and learning styles. While some have questioned the necessity of this model, it is by no means new. Countries like Japan, Thailand and South Korea have long adopted co-teaching for selected subjects — and with positive outcomes.

Here at home, the method will be introduced specifically for a new subject, Alam dan Manusia: Pembelajaran Bersepadu (Nature and Humanity: Integrated Learning), for Year One students under the 2027 School Curriculum. The goal is clear: to nurture well-rounded young Malaysians who are academically capable, morally grounded and secure in their identity.

Personally, I welcome this move. Having practised a similar co-teaching method during my years as a media trainer, I’ve seen its benefits firsthand.

Although I have paused training work in recent years, many of my two- or three-day workshops relied on the strength of two facilitators. I’ve conducted solo one-day sessions before — and they were exhausting. One person managing the entire flow, from delivering content to guiding practical exercises, is undeniably draining.

But with a co-trainer, everything becomes more dynamic. My sessions were bilingual: I handled the English segments while my partner led the Malay portions. Participants gained more than just theoretical knowledge — they listened, discussed, and worked in groups while both of us had the time and energy to support them. Topics ranged from writing news and press releases to handling the media and navigating press conferences.

If co-teaching can enrich adult learners in a workshop setting, imagine what it could do for young children beginning their formal education.

Of course, the real test will come in implementation. Will teachers receive proper training? Will timetables allow genuine collaboration? Will classrooms be equipped for shared facilitation?

So, what do you think? Is Malaysia ready for this two-teacher model? What are the pros and cons you foresee?

A Little Caution At Bangkok Airport Goes A Long Way

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 17, 2025: As Malaysians, Bangkok is one of our favourite short-getaway destinations — a place of food, colour, and effortless joy. But before you breeze through Suvarnabhumi Airport on your next trip, it’s worth pausing for a small reminder shared recently in my neighbourhood group.

A few travellers from across Asia have recounted unsettling experiences at airport duty-free shops. The stories may vary, but the pattern is familiar: someone pays for chocolates or perfume, the cashier quietly slips an extra item into the bag, and moments later security steps in and accuses the traveller of theft. What follows is frightening — detentions, hefty “fines”, and little support from authorities.

Whether every detail circulating online is fully accurate or not, one thing is certain: tourist scams evolve, and even major airports aren’t immune.

So if you’re heading to Bangkok, or anywhere really, take a moment to protect yourself:

• Watch every item being scanned at the counter.

• Check your receipt before you walk away.

• Keep an eye on how your purchases are packed.

• If you’re given a free gift, ask for it to be listed or acknowledged.

• And above all, don’t rush — airports thrive on our haste.

Travelling is meant to be joyful, not intimidating. A few extra seconds at the duty-free counter might spare you a distressing incident you never saw coming.

Stay safe, travel light, and may your next Bangkok adventure be filled with the kind of memories worth keeping.

Siva, Forever in Our Hearts

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12, 2025: “Girl, if there’s nothing newsworthy, you can go home now.”

It was nearly 9pm. I had spent the whole afternoon poring over dry, technical papers while Siva watched in silence. Only later did I realise — he was teaching resilience, patience, and the discipline every journalist needs. That quiet nod to go home felt like a small victory, one I still remember.

Siva, his full name S. Sivaselvam never raised his voice – at least not with me. He guided with calm firmness — shaping my questions, sharpening my intros, polishing my copy. He pushed without scolding, and celebrated quietly when my work was good. When my exclusive finally made the papers, his early congratulations meant everything.

“A good man and a great journalist. Gone but never forgotten,” Govind said — and it’s true.

Siva, 77, passed away at 3am today, a month after being diagnosed with Stage 4 inoperable stomach cancer. He spent his final days in the comfort of home under hospice care, choosing peace over chemotherapy.

A steady hand, a gentle mentor — his lessons will echo long after his voice has fallen silent.

Meanwhile, tributes kept pouring in. Among them from ex Bernama journalist, P. Parameswaran:

“So sad to hear about Siva’s passing. He’ll be deeply missed. Looking back at the Bernama newsroom he led then, in the late 1970s, Siva was a firm but fair boss who set high standards. Yet he was always ready to lend a steady, guiding hand when we were stuck on an intro or struggling to find the perfect angle for a story.

He had a remarkable knack for mentoring young reporters, steering us through early newsroom challenges and reminding us to keep his editorial tips at the back of our heads. And if we turned to him again with the same questions, Siva would raise his voice just enough for the entire newsdesk to hear — a momentary embarrassment that ensured the lesson stayed with us.

Siva’s editing skills were legendary - thanks his sharp eye and instinct for clean, compelling copy. In fact, when his trademark initial — a bold, unmistakable “S” — appeared on an edited story, the subs desk would give it just a cursory glance before slipping the physical copy into the traditional boxes for the teleprinter operators to dispatch the stories to clients.

His edits carried quiet authority — everyone trusted his judgment. I still recall some of the crisp, catchy intros he suggested that instantly lifted my stories. At times, he would rewrite our copy so thoroughly that we could barely recognize our own work — but his versions always read better, infused with clarity, rhythm, and impact. Each rewrite was a masterclass in good journalism.

Beyond his editorial sharpness, Siva was a deeply caring mentor. He took a genuine interest in our personal lives too, often checking in, offering quiet encouragement. Siva helped lay the bedrock of discipline and editorial integrity that shaped many of our careers. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed — as a mentor, colleague, and friend who helped many of us find our journalistic voice."

When the Customer Crosses the Line

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11, 2025: For decades, the saying “the customer is always right” has been treated like sacred law in the service industry. It’s been drilled into employees as a symbol of professionalism — the idea that no matter how unreasonable the demand, the customer’s word reigns supreme.

But the recent ZUS Coffee incident, where a barista was verbally abused and splashed with hot coffee by a customer, forces us to confront an uncomfortable truth: sometimes, the customer is wrong — terribly wrong.

The viral video sparked national outrage. In it, a customer, reportedly from China, hurled insults and a cup of coffee at a young barista after being asked to leave the store.

ZUS Coffee responded swiftly, standing by its employee and condemning the behaviour. The company’s statement — “We stand with our Zurista” — was both compassionate and courageous, sending a clear message: respect is not optional.

And that’s precisely the shift we need to see in customer service culture. The phrase “the customer is king” was never meant to justify abuse. It was meant to encourage attentiveness and quality service. But too often, it’s been twisted into a shield for entitlement and bad behaviour.

Behind every counter, every café register, every delivery app chat — there’s a human being. Many of them are young Malaysians working long hours, often for modest pay, trying to serve politely even in the face of rudeness. They deserve dignity, not degradation.

Yes, businesses should prioritise customer satisfaction. But customer service does not mean customer submission.

When a line is crossed — especially one involving aggression or humiliation — companies must act firmly, as ZUS Coffee did. Protecting staff is not only a moral obligation, it’s good business. A healthy workplace culture builds loyalty, both from employees and from customers who value fairness.

This case also highlights something broader about our social conduct. Courtesy is a two-way street. Malaysians pride themselves on being friendly and respectful — traits that should extend beyond slogans and social media posts. In every café, restaurant, or retail outlet, respect must be mutual.

At the end of the day, coffee can be remade. A bruised ego can heal. But when humanity and empathy are thrown out the window — that’s when society truly loses its flavour.

Road Accidents: It’s Time We Admit the Real Problem

KUALA LUMPUR,Nov 11, 2025: Another week, another tragedy on Malaysian roads. The crash involving a Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) bus and a Perodua Alza near Tasik Banding, Gerik on June 9, which claimed at least 15 lives and injured dozens more, is yet another grim reminder of how dangerous our roads have become.

Each time such accidents occur, the familiar debate resurfaces — was it the road, the vehicle, or the weather? But Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi’s recent statement cuts through the noise: over 80 per cent of road accidents in Malaysia are caused by driver behaviour, not road conditions.

According to the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), of more than half a million accident cases recorded, 12,000 involved serious injuries and 6,000 resulted in deaths — 4,000 of which were motorcyclists. Only about 12 to 13 per cent of these were linked to road factors like potholes or poor weather. The rest, as the data shows, came down to human behaviour — speeding, distraction, recklessness, and a culture of complacency behind the wheel.

Yet, whenever tragedy strikes, many Malaysians are quick to point fingers at the authorities. We blame the roads, the government, or the system. But as Nanta rightly said, “Many are still inclined to blame others and won’t admit their own mistakes.” It’s a hard truth — but one that must be confronted.

Take the Gerik bus crash, for instance. The Transport Ministry’s investigation, backed by viral dashcam footage, found that the bus was travelling at 117 km/h in a 60 km/h zone. That’s not an infrastructure problem. That’s human negligence — pure and simple.

The Works Ministry continues to repair, resurface, and monitor roads nationwide. But no amount of asphalt or signage can fix what’s broken in our driving culture. What Malaysia needs now is not just better roads, but better drivers.

This means stricter enforcement on reckless motorists, mandatory driving refreshers for repeat offenders, and serious consideration of telematics technology — devices that track vehicle speed and driving patterns — especially for commercial and public transport operators. The technology exists. What’s missing is the political will and public discipline to embrace it.

Road safety advocacy must also go beyond campaigns and slogans. It has to start with accountability — from drivers, passengers, and companies alike. Because every time we shrug off responsibility or justify our own bad habits, we’re setting the stage for the next tragedy.

Malaysia’s roads are not the main killers. Our attitudes are. Until that changes, the statistics will continue to climb — and no amount of finger-pointing will bring back the lives already lost.

Influencer’s Behaviour Reflects a Deep Lack of Respect

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10, 2025: The recent case of a social media influencer making lewd comments about a woman during a livestream is yet another reminder of how easily decency is discarded for attention.

Despite his public apology, such behaviour cannot — and should not — be excused. His conduct was not a careless joke; it was a blatant act of disrespect and humiliation towards another person.

Equally troubling was the reaction of his wife - also an influencer - who was seen laughing it off. By doing so, she became complicit in normalising this kind of verbal abuse.

Both should feel ashamed — not only for their actions, but for what their behaviour teaches their followers about empathy and accountability.

The woman, 26-year-old Russian model Alisa Kasimova, said she filed the report after discovering that she had been recorded without her knowledge while dining at a restaurant in Bukit Bintang.

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During the livestream, the influencer had allegedly made several obscene remarks about her, sparking public backlash online.

Alisa said she decided to take action after receiving advice and concern from others regarding her safety.

"[Many have] told me to go to the police, and I did. I did it not out of anger, but because silence only protects those who hurt others," she wrote on Threads.

Under Section 509 of the Penal Code, it is an offence to use any word or gesture intended to insult the modesty of a person. This section covers acts such as making obscene remarks, gestures, or comments that violate a person’s dignity. Conviction can lead to imprisonment for up to five years, a fine, or both.

Meanwhile, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 criminalises the improper use of network facilities — including the sharing or transmission of any communication that is obscene, indecent, false, menacing, or offensive with the intent to annoy, abuse, threaten, or harass others. Offenders may face a fine of up to RM50,000, imprisonment of up to one year, or both.

This incident highlights a worrying trend where some influencers exploit their platforms for shock value, disregarding the real harm they cause. Social media fame is not a shield against the law — nor should it be a licence to demean others.

Siti Nurhaliza Brings Real-World Insight To UiTM

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 9, 2025 : When Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) announced Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin’s appointment as an Adjunct Professor, social media buzzed with mixed reactions.

Some applauded the move as visionary, others questioned whether a superstar belongs in academia.

But perhaps it’s time we rethink what being a professor — particularly an Adjunct Professor — really means.

In today’s world, universities are no longer ivory towers detached from real life. The best learning happens when theory meets experience — and that’s exactly what an Adjunct Professor brings to the table.

This title isn’t about tenure or publishing academic papers. It’s an honorary position given to individuals who have demonstrated excellence and impact in their fields — be it in business, the arts, or science. They serve as part-time lecturers or mentors, sharing hard-earned insights that can’t be found in textbooks.

In short, they are bridges — connecting classrooms with the real world.

And who better to play that role than Siti Nurhaliza?

For over two decades, she has built an empire that extends far beyond music. From brand-building and entrepreneurship to philanthropy and creative innovation, Siti embodies the very qualities UiTM hopes to instil in its students — resilience, excellence, and authenticity.

As an Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at UiTM’s Faculty of Management and Business, Siti is expected to conduct masterclasses, participate in entrepreneurship forums, and mentor aspiring young talents. More importantly, she brings a living example of how creativity and commerce can coexist with integrity and purpose.

Her appointment also signals something bigger — a recognition that experience and academic achievement are not mutually exclusive. It’s an acknowledgment that success stories from the real world have a place in the lecture hall, too.

So, rather than questioning her credentials, perhaps we should celebrate what this means for education in Malaysia: a step toward inclusivity, relevance, and forward-thinking.

Congratulations, Biduanita Negara. The honour is well-deserved. The title suits you — not just for your voice that has inspired millions, but for the lessons your journey continues to teach.

Because at the end of the day, academia and industry are not rivals. They are partners in progress — and it takes both to create the next generation of dreamers and doers.

No Toques Mi Corazón Nears 400K Views!

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4, 2025: No Toques Mi Corazón (Don't Touch My Heart) is approaching 400,000 views on TikTok.To be exact, the figures have touched 394.8k. Incredible! I still can’t believe it. Popular Malaysian drummer and vocalist Nur Amira Syahira has won hearts once again with her latest Spanish track, an upbeat Latin dance-pop number that’s clearly resonating with listeners.

For me personally, this is a milestone too — my TikTok has never gone this far. My previous highest view count was 25,000, from a video of a Deepavali high-tea celebration with friends at Sunway Putra Hotel.

Nur Amira wrote, composed, and sang this beautiful Spanish song herself.

And as I type this, my TikTok notifications are still buzzing. Everyone seems to love this catchy, energetic tune — and honestly, so do I!

This song tells the story of a confident, strong woman who refuses to get involved with someone who is already in a relationship. Even though he tries to win her over, she makes it clear she will not be “the other woman” or anyone’s distraction. Instead, she chooses her freedom — to dance, live her life, and avoid being fooled again. The message is one of empowerment, independence, and self-love: if it isn’t real, honest love, she would rather move on and shine on her own.

After the Apology: Moving Forward Together

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3, 2025: Utusan Malaysia has welcomed the end of the controversy following Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming’s apology over his remarks against one of its reporters, which sparked backlash last week.

I must commend the response from Media Mulia group editor Mohamad Azlan Jaafar, who graciously accepted Nga’s apology and described it as a positive step forward.

Media Mulia is Utusan Malaysia’s publisher.

His tone and professionalism helped steer the situation toward resolution rather than prolonged friction — a reminder that leadership in the media can also set the tone for national discourse.

Nga had come under criticism after reprimanding an Utusan Malaysia journalist during the pre-launch of his ministry’s “I Lite U” project in Kuala Lumpur. The reporter had asked why the programme’s name was in English rather than Malay, a query that touched on sensitivities surrounding the use of the national language in official programmes.

In his clarification, Nga retracted any remarks that may have caused discomfort and emphasised the government’s commitment to media freedom. He also held an informal session with media representatives, signalling his intent to move forward constructively.

Mohamad Azlan noted that his organisation merely carries out its journalistic duties without prejudice, adding that “this is the only way we can build a respected media institution.” His calm stance allowed the issue to be put to rest and enabled all parties to continue their work without unnecessary distraction.

A Teachable Moment for All

So, what can we take away from this episode?

While Nga’s reaction was understandably criticised, there is also a lesson for the media fraternity. Journalists have every right — and responsibility — to ask challenging questions. But as in all communication, tone matters. A respectful approach does not weaken the question; it strengthens the professionalism behind it.

For instance, the query could have been framed like this:

“YB, considering the government’s emphasis on Bahasa Malaysia in official communication, would it be more appropriate for the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 slogan to be presented in the national language?”

A question phrased in this way remains direct and relevant, yet invites a constructive response rather than confrontation.

Perhaps this is a timely reminder for both sides — media organisations could consider strengthening their training in press-conference etiquette and questioning techniques in both Bahasa Malaysia and English. Likewise, ministers and public officials may benefit from ongoing crisis-communication and media-engagement briefings.

Call to Action

A healthy media environment thrives on mutual respect. Journalists should feel empowered to ask questions confidently and courteously, while leaders must respond with patience, openness and humility.

If we want a media landscape that promotes accountability, fairness and dignity, then we all have a role to play — journalists, leaders and readers alike

Nga Kor Ming’s Outburst: A Lesson in Respect for the Media

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1, 2025: Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has found himself in hot water after scolding a Utusan Malaysia journalist for asking why the “I Lite U” project — launched for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 — was named in English instead of Bahasa Malaysia.

Rather than giving a simple explanation, Nga demanded to know which media outlet the journalist represented and warned that he would be contacting Utusan’s chief editor. His comments, caught on video, spread quickly online — and not in a flattering way.

Critics, including UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, accused Nga of hypocrisy, pointing out that when he was in the opposition, he spoke loudly about media freedom. Now, as a minister, he seemed easily offended by a fair question. PAS leaders also reminded Nga that a recent government circular requires the use of Bahasa Malaysia in all official communication.

Academician Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Murad Merican of the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC), International Islamic University Malaysia, urged the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) to intervene.

“The MMC cannot ignore its duty to protect the journalism profession. Otherwise, it would be deemed negligent. The Council has moral authority in addressing intimidation against journalists. If it wishes to be firm — as it should — it must remind those involved of Section 503 of the Penal Code,” he said.

Meanwhile, two National Journalism Laureattes have joined the growing calls urging Nga to apologise for his conduct towards the journalist.

National Journalism Laureatte Datuk Kadir Jasin called on the journalist to lodge a complaint to the MMC. Kadir, who is former group editor-in-chief of the New Straits Times Press said disagreements between public figures - particularly politicians - and journalists are counterproductive and should be avoided.

He said the incident could have been avoided if Nga had acted professionally and refrained from threatening to complain about the Malay journalist to their editor.

"If you are afraid of being questioned by journalists, don't hold a press conference or grant interviews, especially with television reporters," he said in a Facebook post recently.

National Journalism Laureate Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar called on Nga to apologise to the journalist and the wider media fraternity, describing the minister’s reaction as 'regrettable' and reflected poorly on the government's relationship with the media.

"Journalists have the right to ask any question, and as a minister, Nga Koh Ming should have responded in a reasonable and respectable manner. The way he reacted to such a simple and non-provocative question was disappointing and unbecoming of a leader," he said.

"Ministers must not be seen using their power or position to bully or intimidate journalists. They should respect the institution of the press — not question or threaten it,” he said.

At its core, this incident goes beyond a mere language issue. It is about respect for the media and accountability in leadership. Journalists are simply doing their job when they ask tough questions — and true leaders are defined not by how they handle praise, but by how they respond to scrutiny.

Malaysia Needs More Than a Gimmick to Shine

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1, 2025: The controversy surrounding the “I LITE U” slogan for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) has sparked debate far beyond the choice of language. While much of the public attention has centred on the minister’s overreaction to a journalist’s question, the deeper issue lies in what the slogan says — and doesn’t say — about how Malaysia wishes to present itself to the world.

At its core, “I LITE U” is not grammatically correct English. It borrows from the informal style of text messaging, replacing “light” with “lite” and “you” with “U.” This shorthand may sound playful or modern, but it also feels superficial. For a campaign that represents the entire nation, the message should resonate universally and clearly, without the need for explanation or translation.

According to Kuala Lumpur’s Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif, the name is a creative marketing gimmick derived from the words Innovative, Lighting, Infrastructure, Towards, Eco-Elegance and Urbanisation. She explained that it was chosen to spark curiosity and to symbolise the city’s ambition to become a vibrant, sustainable, and smart metropolis that dazzles after dark. There is no denying the cleverness behind the acronym — but cleverness alone is not communication.

Tourism branding is more than just a tagline; it is an emotional promise. “Malaysia Truly Asia”, launched in 1999, succeeded not because it was linguistically catchy, but because it carried truth and warmth. It told the world, in just three words, that Malaysia was the meeting point of Asia’s cultures — Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous — and that this harmony was something to experience. It was rooted in identity, not trend.

“I LITE U,” in contrast, feels detached from Malaysia’s cultural core. Its appeal depends heavily on visuals — glowing lights, neon colours, cityscapes — which may work for promoting Kuala Lumpur’s nightlife, but not for the country’s broader tourism narrative. What about our lush rainforests, serene islands, traditional villages, and rich heritage? A slogan that fits the nation’s story should evoke the sense of discovery and hospitality that travellers feel when they meet Malaysians, not just the buzz of an LED-lit skyline.

Malaysia’s tourism brand must balance modernity with authenticity. There is room for creativity — but it must rest on substance. Alternatives such as “Light Up Your Journey – Terangi Perjalananmu” or “Experience Malaysia in a New Light – Alami Malaysia Dalam Cahaya Baharu” convey a similar visual theme while grounding it in emotional meaning. They speak of renewal, discovery, and personal connection — values that today’s travellers seek in a post-pandemic world.

A slogan like “Light Up Your Journey” invites the traveller to be part of Malaysia’s story. It positions the country not merely as a destination to visit, but as an experience that enriches and illuminates one’s own life. It is welcoming, poetic, and bilingual — a reflection of Malaysia’s linguistic and cultural inclusiveness.

Tourism Malaysia has long shown that campaigns rooted in genuine storytelling create lasting impact. Visitors do not come because of clever acronyms; they come because they feel something. In that sense, Malaysia doesn’t need to “lite” anyone. It already shines — through its people, its diversity, and its enduring warmth. What the world needs is simply a reminder of that light.