Melaka Tokoh Guru recipients (from left) Husin, Nubah and Jamil posing with their awards which they received in conjunction with Teachers Day. Face masks were removed for photo session. — Bernama
RETIRED educator Husin Chek, 65, was proud to have received the Tokoh Guru Award 2022 from his former student, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali at a Teachers Day event.
Husin, who served as a teacher for 38 years, said he taught Sulaiman for two years, from 1983, when he was at SM Vokasional Alor Gajah in Melaka.
Born in Kampung Rumbia, Alor Gajah, Husin said Sulaiman’s speech when presenting the award was a moment he would cherish.
“Who would have thought that the student I used to teach Science to would present the award to me today.
“Indeed, not only is he a success story but today has been a memorable and beautiful occasion,” said Husin who is now active in community activities with the Kasih Asnaf Foodbank.
He is one of three Melaka Tokoh Guru award recipients this year, alongside Jamil Jaamat and Nubah Aton.
All three took home a plaque, certificate of appreciation and a cheque worth RM3,000.
After his retirement in 2015, Husin continued serving the community through a food bank he founded, to help the poor and people in need get daily necessities, especially those who lost their jobs due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I have a background in counselling, and the desire to help people has always been there,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jamil, 68, said his experience as a teacher in several rural schools taught him patience in overcoming the many ups and downs in his career.
The former principal of SMK Tun Haji Abdul Malek (2006 to 2015) said being a teacher meant shouldering a heavy responsibility.
“Carrying out one’s duties with passion is important when imparting knowledge.
“People judge a teacher’s success based on their students’ achievements, regardless of the field they are involved in,” said Jamil, who hails from Limbongan. — Bernama
