FOR Jason Soh Chiaw Ker (pic), the decision to pursue further studies came at a pivotal point early in his teaching career – one that would test both his resolve and sense of purpose.
In 2014, as he was preparing his application for postgraduate studies, his mother was diagnosed with cancer. She passed away the following year, marking a deeply challenging period in his life.
Amid personal loss, a scholarship from the Star Education Fund became more than just financial assistance – it offered a sense of direction and purpose.
At the time, Soh was a young lecturer, just a year into his teaching career. Determined to strengthen his skills in the classroom, he applied for the scholarship to pursue a Master in Teaching and Learning at Taylor’s University.
Coming from a modest background – with a father who worked as a salesman and a mother who was a homemaker – he understood both the value of education and the realities of financial constraints.
The 36-year-old conceded that while he could have continued his postgraduate studies without assistance, it would have been significantly more challenging.
Being selected for the scholarship was both an affirmation and a relief.
“I was very excited and grateful,” he recalled.
More than easing financial pressure, the scholarship allowed him to fully engage in his studies while continuing to teach.
The programme, he said, equipped him with practical pedagogical skills, which he applied immediately in the classroom – shaping not only how he taught, but also how his students learnt.
It also broadened his outlook. The experience showed him that opportunities for growth extend beyond undergraduate education, and gave him the confidence to pursue lifelong learning even while working.
More than a decade later, that foundation continues to define his career. Now an associate principal lecturer and coordinator for university progression at Sunway College, Soh has influenced countless students in the higher education sector.
His dedication has earned him multiple teaching awards from his institution. He has also authored a book on career development and employability, extending his impact beyond the classroom and equipping students with skills for life after graduation.
Reflecting on his journey, Soh described the scholarship as a defining moment – not only because it enabled him to pursue postgraduate studies, but also because it shaped his professional path.
The knowledge and skills he gained continue to inform his teaching, creating a ripple effect that reaches far beyond himself.
“The scholarship and postgraduate studies have not just impacted me, but also the students I teach,” he said.
He credited his ability to make the most of the opportunity to qualities such as resourcefulness, resilience and a commitment to lifelong learning – traits he believes are essential for any scholarship recipient.
Beyond strong academic results, he believes scholarship panels look for motivation, potential impact and a readiness to grow.
For students hoping to follow a similar path, he offered this advice: be proactive in seeking out opportunities, stay prepared throughout the application process, and remain open to any outcome.
This feature is part of a series highlighting beneficiaries of the Star Education Fund (SEF), in celebration of Star Media Group’s 55th anniversary. Since its inception in 1994, the SEF has benefited 4,601 scholarship recipients, with a total value of RM176mil. For enquiries, email edufund@thestar.com.my or call 03-7967 1388 ext 1466.
With the theme of the article in mind, carry out the following English language activities.
1 In pairs, convert Soh’s story into a three-panel comic strip. Have fun!
2 In groups of four, look through today’s newspaper for one example of a positive ripple effect and one example of a negative ripple effect caused by an action. What lessons can you learn from these examples? Discuss in class.
The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) programme promotes English language learning in primary and secondary schools nationwide. For Star-NiE enquiries, email starnie@thestar.com.my.
