SJK (T) Jalan Parit Ibrahim earns recognition for keeping pupils engaged, motivated via digital tools
A SCHOOL in Pontian, Johor, has earned international recognition after transforming its classrooms with artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver more personalised learning experiences for pupils.
SJK (T) Jalan Parit Ibrahim became the first Tamil school in Malaysia and the country’s only under-enrolled school (SKM) to be recognised as a Microsoft Showcase School after completing a Microsoft programme introduced through the Education Ministry.
Information and communication technology teacher P. Karthik, 35, said the school integrated Microsoft AI tools such as Microsoft Teams, Reading Progress, Speaker Progress, Math Progress and Microsoft Copilot into its daily lessons.
“We use Microsoft Teams as our digital learning hub, while Learning Accelerators such as Reading Progress, Speaker Progress and Math Progress help us monitor pupils’ development through personalised feedback and data-driven insights.
“We also use Microsoft Copilot to support lesson planning, generate differentiated learning materials and quizzes, and develop engaging classroom activities,” he said.
Karthik said the AI-powered classroom enabled teachers to identify each pupil’s learning needs and tailor lessons accordingly instead of adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.
“Rather than replacing teachers, AI serves as an intelligent assistant that helps us provide more targeted guidance, making learning more engaging, inclusive and effective for every pupil,” he elaborated.
He said the school’s digital transformation began several years ago with the adoption of Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Teams, followed by continuous professional development for teachers.
“We first became a Microsoft Incubator School before progressing to Microsoft Showcase School status for three consecutive years.
“The gradual introduction of AI tools allowed both teachers and pupils to become familiar with the technology before it was fully integrated into classroom learning,” he said.
According to Karthik, applications such as Reading Progress and Math Progress enabled teachers to quickly identify pupils who needed additional support while challenging those ready to progress further.
He said AI had also reduced teachers’ administrative workload by helping generate lesson ideas, classroom activities and assessments, allowing educators to spend more time interacting with pupils.
“Our teachers underwent continuous training in Microsoft Education technologies, AI integration and digital teaching practices.
“The training gave us the confidence and knowledge to integrate AI effectively and responsibly into the classroom.”
Karthik said pupils had become more engaged and motivated because AI-powered activities provided immediate feedback while encouraging them to take ownership of their learning.
“At the same time, we ensure AI remains a learning partner rather than a replacement for human thinking.
“Teachers encourage pupils to question AI-generated responses, verify information and think creatively while solving problems,” he added.
The school’s achievement was commemorated with the launch of its AI-Powered Classroom by Education Ministry secretary-general Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim.
Headmistress A. Kalaiarasi, 45, said the school had successfully implemented the “One Student, One Device” concept for its 33 pupils.
“All six classrooms are equipped with two smartboards and four smart TVs, while pupils have access to 24 laptops and 15 tablets for their daily lessons,” she said.
Kalaiarasi said the digital transformation improved pupils’ classroom assessment (PBD) performance, boosted their confidence and enabled them to represent the school in international presentations.
She said Education Ministry had allocated RM10,000 to further strengthen the school’s AI culture and support its digital learning ecosystem.
Kalaiarasi hopes the school’s journey will inspire more Tamil and rural schools to embrace AI, proving that meaningful digital transformation is achievable regardless of a school’s size or location.
