“AS teachers, we never stop thinking. We eat, we sleep and we constantly think about what to do tomorrow and how to make our students understand.”
This candid admission by Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Bandar Baru Sentul science teacher Kartika Abd Kahar highlights a reality often overlooked by the public.
There is a common misconception that a teacher’s workday ends when the final school bell rings. In reality, the hours spent in the classroom are just a fraction of their true commitment.
Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) Chiao Nan co-curricular activities vice principal Dave Lai agrees, noting that teaching is practically a 24-hour job.
"Many think teachers have it easy, clocking in at 7.30am and leaving by 1.30pm.
“But behind the scenes, there is a lot of follow-up work. Beyond preparing lessons, teachers have a lot of administrative 'homework' to complete. We are also handling students' issues after hours, communicating with parents to help solve problems their children face," he said.
Kartika and Lai are two of the 70 teachers who were celebrated and honoured for their sacrifices, dedication and commitment at McDonald’s Titiwangsa Drive-Thru, Kuala Lumpur. The event was part of the nationwide Teacher’s Day initiative by the brand, which began earlier this month with local activations in Penang before moving across the country.
Throughout May, a total of 300 McDonald’s restaurants will be leveraged as community touchpoints, whereby teachers from nearby schools around the vicinity will be invited and treated to a delicious meal.
The campaign is expected to reach thousands of educators nationwide via hundreds of schools, reinforcing McDonald’s Malaysia’s recognition towards the sacrifices of educators as well as the important role they play in shaping future generations and contributing to the nation’s development.
For Lai, the celebration provided a much-needed mental break from the heavy demands of the profession.
"Besides allowing teachers to step away and not think about work for a while, we can enjoy this time together with our colleagues and other like-minded teachers. It is a really great opportunity.”
Echoing Lai, SMK Bandar Baru Sentul science teacher Renukha Devi Puspanathan said such recognition goes a long way.
"Most of the time, we are focused on our students. So, when someone organises an event for us, we are really touched," she shared.
Beyond hosting celebrations, McDonald’s Malaysia is also taking steps to improve educators' daily work environments.
During the event, McDonald’s also presented cash contributions of RM5,000 to selected schools to support the refurbishment and enhancement of their staffrooms and facilities.
Expressing his gratitude, Lai noted that the contribution will be of great help as the school is currently in the process of securing funds to upgrade various facilities.
A decade of gratitude
The Teacher’s Day initiative also marks the 10th year that McDonald’s Malaysia is celebrating educators, a key part of its ongoing community engagement efforts. This reflects the brand’s commitment to giving back to the people who serve society most.
Since its inception in 2017, the initiative has been a cornerstone of Program Komuniti @ McDonald’s, which delivers over 10,000 community activities annually, from supporting families in need to recognising frontliners and educators.
"Teachers play a fundamental role in shaping individuals and strengthening communities, with an impact that extends well beyond the classroom,” said McDonald’s Malaysia managing director and local operating partner Datuk Azmir Jaafar.
“For ten remarkable years, our Teachers’ Day initiative has grown into a nationwide effort that allows us to engage schools directly and deliver appreciation where it matters most. We believe it is our collective responsibility to ensure these pivotal figures feel truly valued and celebrated.”
McDonald’s Malaysia corporate communications senior director Shamsidar Yahya noted that this stems from the brand's belief in being a true community partner.
A McDonald’s restaurant is not just a place to enjoy a meal, but a space for the community to gather, share stories and forge friendships, she shared.
"Teachers are the heartbeat of every community. We hope this celebration brings them joy and serves as a reminder that their sacrifices are deeply appreciated," she said in her opening speech.
She added that while reaching the 10-year milestone is significant, the brand's focus remains on the future.
"Ten years have passed, and importantly, McDonald’s Malaysia remains committed to carrying out activities for teachers in the years to come," Shamsidar affirmed.
