Village Life In All Its Glory
By Mrs Angela Toh, Principal of Kinder Labz Jalan Woodward

I was a true-born and bred village damsel who enjoyed village life to the fullest. My village was one of the New Villages established in the 1950s by the British colonial government during the Malayan Emergency to isolate and protect the Chinese community from the Malayan Communist Party.

My parents, who were town dwellers in the 1950s, already had a growing brood of children and could no longer fit comfortably into a rented room in one of the heritage buildings in Ipoh’s Old Town area. When they learned that a village house was up for sale, they immediately bought it and settled there.

The village was only a few kilometres from Ipoh town and transportation was never much of a problem. Buses and taxis served the area frequently. Want to go to town for a movie? No problem. A bus ride cost only ten cents for adults and five cents for children. Taxi rides were a flat twenty cents, shared among four passengers travelling to the same destination. If a passenger happened to be a young lady travelling at night, an empathetic taxi driver might even send her right to her doorstep at no extra charge. Bus stops were conveniently located along the main roads, often less than a hundred metres apart.

Back to my glorious village life. I was born two years after my parents and siblings moved into the village house. Perhaps it was the relaxed atmosphere or perhaps my parents wanted an offspring who was one hundred percent village-born. Whatever the reason, I owe them my gratitude because I thoroughly enjoyed my childhood.

The surroundings of our house resembled today’s eco-parks, except they were entirely natural. The most unforgettable place in my memory was the pond just ten metres from our home. Calm and scenic, it mesmerised me with its breathtaking wild grasses and purple water lilies. If I was lucky, I would spot a lone snake gliding across the water, creating gentle ripples as it swam and sometimes wild fowls moving between the grass. Spectacular scenes like these could easily make one dreamy and poetic.

The best part of the day came in the evening when the sun had set and nature’s orchestra began its nightly performance. The familiar chorus of insects, frogs and other small creatures filled the air. We became so accustomed to these sounds that a quiet night would have felt strangely unnatural.

To say that one would never go hungry in the village is no exaggeration. There was always plenty of land to grow fruit trees and vegetables. Our house had seven coconut trees, a ciku tree, a wild cherry tree, a rambutan tree, numerous banana trees and several guava trees. My siblings and I climbed trees as though it were the most natural thing in the world. Chickens were reared for home consumption and I could swear that the meat was organic and tasted much better back then.

If we felt like having fish porridge for supper, my brothers would simply catch some catfish from the pond and add them to the pot. In those days, houses were not fenced and everyone knew one another by name. Surplus food was generously shared among neighbours and any problems involving blown light bulbs or burst pipes were quickly attended to by helpful men living along the road.

I remember my siblings’ schoolmates frequently visiting our house to play table tennis, go fishing at the pond or simply relax beneath the fruit trees. This was especially true for those who lived in town and rarely had the opportunity to experience such surroundings or enjoy fresh, unpolluted air.

During my childhood, I played games such as hide-and-seek and cops and robbers with the other children from nearby houses. One can still imagine the sight of bright, colourful lanterns carried by groups of delighted children lighting up the village roads during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Life in the village was truly wonderful, full of adventure and extraordinary experiences. It was indeed the envy of our counterparts who lived in town.

Key Vocabulary

Brood: A large family of children

Heritage: Having historical or cultural importance

Empathetic: Showing understanding and concern for others

Mesmerised: Fascinated or captivated

Scenic: Beautiful and pleasant to look at

Chorus: A combination of many sounds together

Accustomed: Familiar with something through repeated experience

Reared: Raised or brought up

Surplus: More than what is needed

Extraordinary: Remarkable or unusual in a positive way

At ILTI, learning goes beyond textbooks and examinations. Through reading, writing and meaningful discussions, students develop the ability to express themselves with confidence and preserve stories that matter.

Mrs Angela Toh’s heartfelt recollection of her childhood in old Ipoh reminds us that good writing does more than describe experiences – it brings memories to life and connects generations.

Let’s be aspired to write with clarity, creativity and purpose. Join us at ILTI and discover how language can become a lifelong gift.

Your English learning journey starts here. Call/WhatsApp: 010-395 3067 or email us at info@ilti.edu.my

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What I Wish I Knew When I Started Working in Education
By Mdm Agalya Balaguru, Campus Principal of Knewton Global Schools Ipoh

 

When I first stepped into education, I thought I understood the job. I imagined lesson plans, clear routines, motivated learners and a sense of steady progress. What I did not yet realise was that education is not simply a profession—it is a living, shifting ecosystem of people, emotions and moments that rarely behave according to plan.

If I could speak to my younger self on that first day, I would offer a few quiet truths that only experience can teach.

First, I would say: not every day will feel successful—and that is normal. Early in my career, I measured success in obvious ways: perfect lessons, engaged students, smooth transitions and visible progress. I now understand that some of the most meaningful work is invisible. A student who returns to class after a difficult weekend. A quiet word that prevents a situation from escalating. A lesson that does not go as planned but still leaves something behind in a learner’s mind. These are not always measurable, but they matter deeply.

Second, I would remind myself that relationships are the real curriculum. I used to believe that content was the centre of education. Over time, I realised that trust is the foundation upon which all learning is built. Students learn more readily from people they feel seen by, respected by and safe with. The same applies to colleagues. Schools function best not when everyone is perfect, but when people are connected enough to support one another through imperfection.

Third, I would say: flexibility is not a weakness; it is a skill. No matter how carefully a lesson or timetable is designed, reality has a way of rewriting the script. A student has a meltdown. A fire drill interrupts the flow. A brilliant discussion takes an unexpected turn. At first, I saw these as disruptions. Now I see them as part of the craft. Teaching is not about rigid control; it is about responsive thinking.

I would also warn my younger self not to underestimate emotional fatigue. Education is joyful, but it is also emotionally demanding. You carry the hopes, struggles and needs of many young people at once. Without reflection and balance, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. I wish I had known earlier that rest is not indulgence—it is sustainability.

Perhaps most importantly, I would say: you will not have all the answers—and you are not meant to. In the beginning, I felt pressure to be certain, decisive and consistently right. With time, I learnt that humility is far more powerful than certainty. Asking questions, seeking advice and admitting uncertainty do not weaken leadership; they strengthen it.

Looking back, I see that education has never been a straight path. It is layered, unpredictable and deeply human. And while I once thought I was entering a profession, I now understand that I was entering a community of continuous learning.

If I had known all this at the start, perhaps I would have worried less. But perhaps that is also part of the journey—learning not only how to educate others, but how to grow alongside them.

Key Vocabulary

Ecosystem — a connected system of people or things that affect one another

Progress — forward movement or improvement over time

Meaningful — important and valuable in a significant way

Foundation — the basic support or underlying principle of something

Curriculum — the subjects and learning experiences taught in education

Flexibility — the ability to adapt and respond to change

Disruptions — interruptions that affect normal flow or routine

Emotional fatigue — mental and emotional exhaustion caused by ongoing stress or responsibility

Humility — the quality of being modest and willing to learn from others

Sustainability — the ability to continue something in a healthy and balanced way over time

At ILTI, we believe that education is more than just studying. It is about learning, growing and becoming more confident every day.

We provide a supportive environment where students are guided with care, encouragement and dedication. Every student matters and every step of progress is celebrated.

Your English learning journey starts here. Call/WhatsApp: 010-395 3067 or email us at info@ilti.edu.my

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When a Professional Journey Comes Full Circle
By Mr Venix Teo, Deputy Head of Knewton Global Schools Rawang

In the field of education, we are privileged to meet individuals whose professionalism, generosity and dedication leave a lasting impression on our lives. For me, Ms Bong is one such person whose influence has been both meaningful and enduring.

More than two decades ago, we worked under the same roof, albeit in different schools. Although our interactions were brief, I always remembered her warm smile, approachable nature and genuine friendliness whenever we crossed paths in the staff canteen. Those simple moments of kindness may have seemed insignificant at the time, yet they remained etched in my memory.

Life has a remarkable way of bringing people back together. After more than 20 years, our professional paths crossed once again at Knewton Global Schools Rawang. As one of the pioneering members of the school, Ms Bong has been an invaluable source of support, guidance, and encouragement throughout my journey here.

What I admire most is her generosity of spirit. She has never hesitated to share her knowledge, offer guidance, or extend a helping hand whenever needed. Whether assisting with school events, providing insights into school processes, or supporting the administration of Cambridge examinations, she has consistently demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

In education, we often speak about the importance of mentorship and collaboration. Ms Bong exemplifies both. Her willingness to support her colleagues reflects not only her expertise but also her character. She leads through service, inspires through action, and creates a positive impact on those around her.

Looking back, I realise that the most meaningful chapters of our professional journey are often written by the people who choose to invest their time, knowledge, and belief in us. Ms Bong’s mentorship, generosity, and steadfast support have been a guiding light along my path. For that, I offer my heartfelt appreciation and utmost respect.

Thank you, Ms Bong, for your kindness, wisdom, and magnanimity. Your support has left an enduring imprint on my professional journey, and I am truly privileged to call you not only a colleague but also a dear friend.

Key Vocabulary

Albeit – despite the fact that

Insignificant – not important, too small to be worth considering

Etched – carved, engraved, marked, or deeply impressed on a surface or in someone’s memory

Invaluable – extremely useful, important, or valuable

Unwavering – Firm, steady, and not changing, especially in support, belief, commitment, or determination

Mentorship – The guidance, support, and advice provided by a more experienced person to help another person develop personally or professionally

Collaboration – The act of working together with others to achieve a common goal

Exemplifies – To be a perfect example of something

Steadfast – Firm, loyal, dependable, and unwavering in commitment, support, or belief

Magnanimity – Great generosity, kindness, and nobility of spirit, especially towards others

Imprint – A lasting effect, influence, or mark left on someone’s life, mind, or memory

To be a professional educator and deliver high-quality learning, it takes significant effort and unwavering commitment to success.

At ILTI, we are dedicated to guiding every learner towards meaningful achievement and lasting success. Join us in taking the next step towards a brighter and more promising future.

Your English learning journey starts here. Call/WhatsApp: 010-395 3067 or email us at info@ilti.edu.my

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A Tribute to My Beloved Father
By Ms Alagammai A/ Parasarahman, Head of Teachers, Kinder Labz

Parasarahman S/O Arumugam was my father. He worked as a gardener at a Tamil school in Ladang Kuala Gula, situated in Taiping, Perak. His parents were from a village called Vengalathur in India. My father was a hardworking, resilient and dedicated man. Unfortunately, he had to discontinue his studies when he was in Standard Six due to his family’s difficult circumstances. At a very young age, he started working to support his family and shoulder their responsibilities.

To me, my father was my hero, the greatest man in the world. He was the pillar and head of our family. He taught me good manners and constantly reminded me to be honest, humble and kind to others. He was my role model because he showed me how to live a responsible and meaningful life. Although he was very strict, he was also fair and compassionate.

Despite being a school gardener, my father handled almost every task in the school except teaching. He was a well-known and highly respected person among his colleagues, relatives and the community. His dedication and commitment towards his work were truly admirable. With only a minimal wage, he managed to take care of his wife and all ten of his children, including me. He gave us the best life he could and never revealed the pain, sacrifices and struggles he endured for our sake.

My father’s school was once selected as one of the most beautiful and well-maintained schools, and he received an award as a token of appreciation for his hard work and commitment. The staff members and even the headmasters often sought his help regarding school matters because of his reliability and experience. In 2025, my father’s former school organised an alumni gathering for former teachers, staff and students. During the event, the school management honoured my mother with an award on behalf of my late father in recognition of his dedication and long years of service to the school, even after 32 years of retirement.

Although my father was not highly educated, he never failed to educate all ten of his children. As I was his youngest child, I spent most of his old age with him. I cherished the quality time we shared, especially listening to his old stories and jokes. I admired the way he handled things and his wonderful sense of humour. He often told me that even though he was not educated, he would make sure all his children received the education he never had. His final wish was to see me become a graduate.

Today, I stand proudly as a gardener’s daughter who has successfully completed her Master’s in Education and is currently serving as the Head of Teachers at Kinder Labz. Every achievement in my life reflects my father’s sacrifices, perseverance and unconditional love. My father left us on February 5th, 2012, due to a lung infection. Although he is no longer here to witness and cherish these beautiful moments with me, I truly believe that his soul is smiling proudly upon his daughter’s achievements.

 

Key Vocabulary

Resilient – able to recover from difficulties and stay strong

Dedicated – committed and hardworking towards a duty or responsibility

Circumstances – conditions or situations affecting someone’s life

Responsibilities – duties or obligations that someone must handle

Pillar – a person who gives strong support to a family or group

Humble – modest and not proud or arrogant

Compassionate – showing kindness and concern for others

Admirable – worthy of respect and praise

Commitment – strong dedication towards work or responsibilities

Sacrifices – giving up something important for others

Endured – suffered patiently through difficulties

Appreciation – recognition and gratitude for someone’s efforts

Reliability – the quality of being dependable and trustworthy

Cherished – deeply valued and appreciated

Perseverance – continuing to work hard despite challenges

Unconditional – without limits or conditions

Achievement – something successfully accomplished

Well-maintained – properly cared for and kept in good condition

Role model – a person looked upon as an example to follow

Graduate – a person who has successfully completed a degree

Witness – to see or experience something personally

Education matters. It is every parent’s dream to see their children succeed. Their sacrifices can only truly be repaid through the success of their children.

At ILTI, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to access high-quality English education. Invest in your future with ILTI and build brighter opportunities, stronger communication skills and more meaningful social interactions.

Explore our language and professional development programmes today. Let’s keep moving forward together.

Your English learning journey starts here. Call/WhatsApp: 010-395 3067 or email us at info@ilti.edu.my

Transform your English skills—one word at a time.

Rising Above the Noise: Why Their Behaviour is a Reflection of Their Limitations, Not Your Leadership
By Dr Evelyn Chen Lee Na, Executive Director Bonanza Educare Sdn Bhd

I read somewhere that when people feel incompetent, threatened or insecure, they often use information hoarding and silence as a form of power. If they don’t tell you anything, they think you can’t control or judge them. And there I was, nodding to myself, thinking yes, that explains a lot!

I have been working for a long, long time. I am very serious about everything I do, I work hard and I don’t tolerate rubbish and drama. My goals have always been simple: make sure the organisation is healthy, my staff are happy and motivated, students are learning and safe and that I, myself keep growing into a better version of who I was yesterday. SIMPLE, isn’t it? Yet somehow, for some people, even that is too much to stomach.

And so, over the years I have been labelled many things. Some I didn’t even know how to pronounce, lol! Some people have written emails long enough to fill a small novel, all dedicated to complaining about me. I am flattered 😊!

Here’s what I have learnt though. What other people think of me is honestly none of my business. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and even the people who don’t like me are entitled to theirs. I have made peace with that.

Someone smart once told me it is a very lonely place at the top. I concur. I am here to do a job, a responsibility entrusted to me, and I take that seriously. I am not here to win a popularity contest or play games. What I have come to understand is that it is far easier for some people to point fingers outward than to look inward. And that too is okay. That is their journey, not mine.

Here is what I want to say to you today. Life is too short to spend it fighting battles with people who are not worthy of your energy. Pour that energy into your work, into the people who matter and into becoming the best version of yourself. Do not let the difficult ones live rent free in your head. They are not worth the space.

If you are fighting the same war that many of us quietly fight every day, please hear this: it is not you. Stay the course. Hold your head high and keep doing what you do best. WORK! Show up, give your best and let the noise stay exactly where it belongs, in the background. And please remember, their behaviour is a reflection of their limitations, not your leadership.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone. And as always, ignore the pests. 😊

 

Key Vocabulary

Incompetent: Lacking the necessary skills, knowledge or ability to perform a task or role effectively.

Insecure: Lacking confidence or assurance in one’s own worth, abilities or position, often leading to defensive behaviour.

Hoarding: The act of accumulating and hiding away resources or information rather than sharing them openly.

Motivated: Driven by a strong internal or external incentive to act, achieve goals and maintain high performance.

Concur: To be of the same opinion; to agree completely with a statement, perspective or finding.

Entrusted: Given the responsibility, care or custody of something valuable with the complete confidence that it will be protected.

Limitations: The boundaries, restrictions or lack of capacity within a person’s abilities, mindset or character.

Pests: Annoying, persistent individuals or influences that cause minor trouble, create unwanted distractions or disrupt peace.

We have all been there; dealing with the drama and wondering why some people choose to point fingers instead of doing a good job. At ILTI, we believe the best answer to the noise is always excellence. You cannot control what others hide or say, but you can control your own growth. When you invest in your communication skills and your professional voice, you are doing it for yourself, not a popularity contest.

If you are ready to focus on your own journey, brush off the distractions and build the unshakeable confidence real leadership demands, explore our language and professional development programmes today. Let’s keep moving forward together.

Your English learning journey starts here. Call/WhatsApp: 010-395 3067 or email us at info@ilti.edu.my

Transform your English skills—one word at a time.