Teachers are backbone, fabric of society, says Fadhlina

MELAKA: Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek choked back her tears as she addressed academicians at the Inspirational Teacher Award ceremony at Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) here.

"I have to stop my speech now before I wet this floor with my tears," she said towards the end of her speech on Monday (May 15).

Fadhlina began tearing up when she spoke about the contributions of teachers to society and some inspirational figures behind moulding the students.

"Your (teachers) sacrifice should be honoured. Teachers have shaped this nation and you all are the backbone and fabric of the society," she said.

Fadhlina was seen wiping her tears several times which also caused some in the audience to be emotional.

During the event, 25 teachers from all over the country including two from here were honoured with RM5,000 cash and a trophy, as well as an additional RM5,000 presented to their respective schools to be used for facelifts of the teachers' rooms.

During a press conference later, Fadhlina said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would announce good news for teachers during the National Teachers' Day celebration at MITC on Tuesday (May 16).