TRADITIONAL melodies and contemporary favourites struck a harmonious chord during the Madani Trainee Teachers Orchestra Concert 2026 in Penang.
Held at Dewan Sri Pinang, George Town, it took the audience of several hundred on a musical journey across generations, cultures and languages.
The diverse repertoire spanned the breadth of Malaysia’s musical landscape, from the lively rhythms of boria and zapin, to children’s folk songs from different states.
These local sounds were complemented by English and international hits, from groovy jazz to contemporary pop, as well as instrumental classics, giving the night a distinctly eclectic feel.
More than 100 performers from 27 teacher training campuses nationwide showed their versatility and talent at the concert, which also highlighted how music can unite people of different backgrounds.
Participants had numerous practice sessions in the weeks and months prior, making new friends and bonding over their shared interest in music.
Education Ministry director- general Datuk Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad believed such experiences would be beneficial to future educators.
Besides allowing them to become more effective communicators, it would also instil a better appreciation for diversity and a sense of professionalism when carrying out their responsibilities.
“These values are essential as teachers don’t just convey information but also nurture students’ character and sense of humanity.
“The leadership, collaborative and management skills gained here can translate into inclusive and impactful activities when they are in the classroom,” he noted.
Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) senior deputy rector Dr Nafizah Shaik Ismail said the arts had real world pedagogic value.
Music, song and dance sharpens one’s sensitivity to rhythm, body language, emotion and cultural diversity, she added.
“The concert provided a practical platform to realise our aspirations of developing well-rounded and innovative educators who are equipped to lead co-curricular activities effectively,” said Dr Nafizah.
The Trainee Teachers Orchestra Concert was first held at the IPG Malay Women’s Campus in Melaka in 2022 following the establishment of the ensemble officially known as “Orkestra Siswa Guru” or OSiG.
Since then, it has grown into an annual event and attracted participation from other campuses in the country.
This year, the IPG Tuanku Bainun Campus in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, was selected as the main organiser.
Its director Mohd Fadzil Mohd Salleh highlighted that art was not merely a form of entertainment, but an effective medium in shaping one’s character, creativity and sense of identity.
“May the experience nurture teachers who not only excel in their profession, but also possess creative and cultured souls capable of instilling noble values within our community,” he added.
