AdminCikgu Muhammad Hafizu Aiman Jusoh of SK Pulat, Kelantan, has been named the recipient of the RISE Educator Award 2026, recognising his efforts to keep education, cultural identity and future aspirations within reach of Orang Asli Temiar students facing major changes in their community.
The teacher received RM5,000 in recognition of his work, while SK Pulat was awarded RM50,000 to support further development initiatives benefiting its students and wider school community.
The award was presented during the RISE Educator Award & Conference 2026 in Subang Jaya on September 14, with Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek highlighting the importance of ensuring that children can continue learning regardless of their circumstances.
“Every child deserves access to an education that recognises their potential, respects their identity and equips them for the future,” she said.
Fadhlina said Hafizu’s work demonstrated how educators could respond to the realities experienced by students and communities, adding that his dedication reflected the commitment of teachers nationwide.
Technology and heritage shape new learning opportunities
Hafizu’s work has particular significance as the Orang Asli Temiar community in Pos Pulat faces relocation linked to the Nenggiri Dam project.
Through his Rumah Belajar Tanpa Loceng initiative, he developed a self-directed learning ecosystem combining STEM, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills with the Temiar language and heritage.
Projects including Kampung AI dan Digital, the Digital Temiar Dictionary and AI Storybook Mathematics provide students with opportunities to learn beyond conventional classroom settings while maintaining connections to their cultural roots.
“When our community is going through change, I want my students to know that their dreams and opportunities do not have to change with it,” said Hafizu.
“This recognition belongs to my students, their families and the community, who have shown that learning can continue and new possibilities can emerge.”
Taylor’s College Campus Director Josephine Tan said the five finalists demonstrated different approaches to creating meaningful change, from widening access to learning to strengthening communities.
She said Hafizu’s work stood out for combining technology, education and cultural preservation while helping students remain connected to their identity and prepare for the future.
Educators explore teaching in an AI-driven world
Hafizu was selected from five finalists, alongside Dr Zul Faizuddin Osman of SK Sungai Rual, Kelantan; Cikgu Mohamad Safuan Rozak of SK Desa Jaya, Pahang; Cikgu Teh Zhen Kiat of SJK(C) Sungai Buloh, Selangor; and Cikgu Veronica Francis of SMK St. Bernadette’s Convent, Perak, who was the award’s first female finalist.
Each of the four other finalists received RM1,000, while their respective schools were awarded RM10,000 to further enhance learning environments and support student development.
The conference brought together nearly 200 teachers and education advocates to discuss the evolving role of educators. Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Johari Abdul delivered the keynote address on “Impactful Teaching, Purposeful Learning in an AI-Driven World”.
“Education must move with the times, but we must always remember that its purpose is the development of our children,” he said.
The programme also featured a panel on human-centred education and masterclasses focused on practical strategies, innovation and resilience for educators.
C. Khor
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