What He Taught Me About Growing
By Ms Lee Hwee Theng, Mandarin Language Specialist, Knewton Global Schools Rawang

Every child has their own rhythm of growing.

And my son, now eight, has spent these years teaching me what growth truly means.

Before he was even one, a nurse at a government clinic asked us to complete a developmental questionnaire. Based on the results, she told us that he had limited eye contact, did not respond when his name was called, and would stare intently at things that spun. She suspected that he might be showing signs of autism.

At the time, I never imagined that the word “autism” would become part of my life. We struggled to accept it. There were tears, and we constantly worried about his future. I spoke to friends about what we were going through, but many did not truly understand autism. Perhaps when something has not happened to you, it is difficult to understand the pain that comes with it.

At three, he was formally diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). He was also registered with the Social Welfare Department (JKM), received his OKU card, and began his journey with EIP (Early Intervention Programme).

The years between three and six were challenging. He struggled to express himself, and when he could not have what he wanted, he would easily become frustrated. Taking medicine, brushing his teeth and using the toilet were all daily challenges.

But slowly, time taught me something: children really do grow.

He loves numbers and enjoys creating questions to test us. At first, they were simple, such as, “What is 10 + 5?” Then, one day, he asked:

“300 + Dinosaur = ?”

We said we did not know.

He answered very seriously:

“300 dinosaurs!”

When he had a cold and kept sneezing, he once told me:

“Mama, I want Ah-Choo medicine!”

He also enjoys rewriting the lyrics of familiar nursery rhymes. Before almost every sentence, he calls out, “Mama”. If I do not respond immediately, he simply changes his tone and calls again until I answer.

These little things may seem insignificant, but they are among the everyday moments I treasure most.

At five, he came home from kindergarten and called us “Daddy, Mummy” for the first time. At eight, he began quietly observing the world around him. The things we thought he would not notice were often the very things he had been watching all along, only to suddenly tell us about them.

Last year, he attended a PPKI special education class in a government primary school and achieved first place in his class. His teacher told me that he could complete his classwork independently and had begun speaking some Malay. Sometimes, when he saw a classmate behaving badly, he would even imitate the teacher’s tone and “tell them off”. I was incredibly proud—and could not help but laugh.

Being his mother has also changed the way I see children as a teacher.

When I see a student being naughty, not following instructions, or becoming deeply curious about something, I now pause and ask myself:

“Is there something I have not yet understood?”

I do not always get it right, but I have learnt to observe more, be more patient, and understand more.

I often remind myself:

If I do my best to teach other people’s children well, perhaps there will also be a teacher who will patiently teach my child well.

Back then, I was deeply afraid of his future.

If I could speak to the tearful mother I once was, I would tell her:

Do not be afraid. You will discover that he is far more wonderful than you imagined.

A child does not have to follow the path we once imagined for them. Let them grow at their own pace and walk their own unique path.

Because every effort, every little achievement and every step forward shines brightly—and deserves to be celebrated.

And the “future” that once frightened me is now becoming the view I treasure most.

 

Key Vocabulary

Developmental – relating to the process of growth and change in a person, especially during childhood.

Questionnaire – a written set of questions used to collect information from people.

Spectrum – a range of different levels, types, or degrees within a particular condition or group.

Formally – in an official or recognised way.

Intervention – action taken to help improve a situation or provide support when difficulties arise.

Frustrated – feeling upset or annoyed because you cannot achieve or express what you want.

Insignificant – not important or meaningful.

Independently – without needing help or support from another person.

Imitate – to copy the way someone speaks, behaves, or does something.

Curious – wanting to know or learn more about something.

Every effort, every milestone and every achievement of a child means so much to their parents. One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the opportunity to experience the best possible education journey.

At ILTI, we believe every achievement deserves to be celebrated. From their first step to their biggest milestone, we are here to celebrate every achievement with them.

Come to ILTI, where every achievement matters.

Call/WhatsApp: 010-395 3067 or email us at info@ilti.edu.my

Transform your English skills—one word at a time.

 The Bonding of Friendship
By Ms Alagammai, Head of Teachers, Kinder Labz

Friendship is one of the most valuable things in life. A good friend is someone who makes us happy and stands by us during difficult times. If you have one, you must be the luckiest person. There is a Japanese proverb that says, “No road is too long in the company of a good friend.” Likewise, my article this time is about my dear best friends and the cherished bond we share.

I’m taking this great opportunity to dedicate this article to my dear best friends as Friendship Day has just passed last month. We make friends at every stage of life. Some become very close while others are only part of our journey for a while. Some friendships may be transient while others can become a profound part of our lives. Whatever the case may be, friendship is a relationship formed not by blood but by love. So, I believe I am a very fortunate person because I have collected so many beautiful memories throughout my journey with many friends. However, as I grew older, I came to have only a few close friends whom I can always turn to in any situation without hesitation. Their unwavering support has always been a source of comfort whenever I need them.

Lately, we had a reunion with my closest school friends after fifteen years which we planned just a month ago. Most of them are married and settled with their families while some of us are still enjoying our happy single lives. We left our families, children and partners behind to rekindle our friendship and recreate some beautiful memories after so many years. We spent two days and one night together despite our busy lives. Honestly, it was a tension-free and fun-filled getaway that we had not experienced in so many years.

We organised many fun games to reminisce about our school days and had so much laughter along with plenty of little jokes. We also had a song-humming game which was probably the funniest game we had ever played. The camaraderie between us made every moment even more enjoyable. We spent our days and nights well even though it was only a short getaway. Besides happiness and laughter, we also shared our experiences and life journeys with one another. It was wonderful to see how much everyone had grown and how life had taken each of us along different paths yet our lives remained intertwined through our friendship.

Finally, we packed our bags and left with heavy hearts because we did not know when our next gathering would be. Everyone has friends at each stage of life but only the lucky ones have the same friends throughout all the stages of life. I am one of the luckiest and proudest people to have friends who have been part of my journey through so many stages of life. No matter how much time passes or how far life takes us, the enduring bond we share will always remain special. That, to me, is the true beauty of friendship.

 

Key Vocabulary

Cherished – Loved and valued greatly

Unwavering – Remaining strong, steady and determined without changing

Transient – Lasting only for a short period of time

Profound – Very deep, meaningful or significant

Fortunate – Having good luck or being in a favourable situation

Rekindle – To bring back a feeling, relationship or interest that has faded

Camaraderie – A feeling of friendship, trust and closeness among people who spend time together

Reminisce – To talk or think about pleasant memories from the past

Intertwined – Closely connected or mixed together in a way that makes them difficult to separate

Enduring – Continuing for a long time and remaining strong despite difficulties or changes

At ILTI, we don’t just develop English proficiency — we build lifelong friendships too! From the day we learn how to introduce ourselves in English to the day we graduate, we learn, grow and make unforgettable memories with our friends. Because at ILTI, learning English is not just about the language — it’s about the friendships we build along the way! ❤️

Your 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.

 Growing Up with My Boys
By Mdm Agalya Devy Balaguru, Head of School, Knewton Global Schools Ipoh

People often say that children grow up too quickly. Looking back, I realise something else was happening at the same time—I was growing up with them.

When we become parents, we imagine we’ll show our children how the world works. But children have a wonderful way of turning the tables. They introduce us to new worlds, new interests and adventures we never expected.

Take football, for example.

Before my two boys came along, football was simply twenty-two people chasing a ball. Then suddenly I was learning the offside rule, discussing Premier League teams, watching matches and celebrating goals as though my own reputation depended on them. Somewhere along the way, I had become a football fan.

Then there were the PlayStation years.

One game became legendary in our household: Small Soldiers. The fearsome Commando Elite, led by Major Chip Hazard, battled the peaceful Gorgonites under Archer. My boys loved the game, but they were just frightened enough that they preferred not to play it alone. Their solution was simple: Mum would be the hero.

So, I became the hero.

One child would hide behind each of my shoulders while I held the controller. They acted as my tactical commanders.

“Shoot!”

“Jump!”

“Behind you!”

“Attack!”

It felt less like playing a video game and more like flying a fighter jet with two very enthusiastic co-pilots shouting contradictory instructions. I don’t remember how many levels we completed, but I vividly remember the excitement. Those moments are memories I’ll always treasure.

Then there was the day they proudly announced they had “rescued” a tortoise.

They were convinced it had been abandoned. I suspected it had simply wandered away from the pond in the nearby park. Nevertheless, the tortoise temporarily became part of our family, and together we researched what tortoises eat, built a home for it, and learnt that not every wandering animal needs rescuing!

I learnt about Lego cities, superheroes, Pokémon, dinosaurs, Harry Potter, remote-controlled cars, Nerf battles and the curious fact that children can survive on seemingly endless amounts of energy while their parents cannot. There were countless other adventures along the way.

Each stage of childhood invited me into a new world. Then, almost without noticing, the roles slowly reversed. The children who once asked me to fix everything became the ones patiently teaching me how to use new technology and navigate a rapidly changing world.

Perhaps that’s the greatest surprise of parenthood.

We think we are raising our children, but all the while they are raising us too. They make us more patient, more adventurous and more willing to see the world through curious eyes. They remind us that joy is often found in the simplest moments—a football kicked around the garden, a PlayStation battle won together, or a “rescued” tortoise that probably wasn’t lost in the first place.

Looking back, I don’t remember every goal that was scored or every game that was won. What I remember most is the privilege of growing up all over again—this time through the eyes of my children.

The greatest inheritance our children leave us is not found in photographs or keepsakes. It is the part of ourselves that they awaken: our curiosity, our imagination, our willingness to laugh at ourselves and our capacity to love without limits. In helping them become who they were meant to be, they quietly shaped who we became. And for that, every football match, every PlayStation battle, every “rescued” tortoise and every wonderfully chaotic day was worth it.

 

Key Vocabulary

• Reputation – The opinion people have about someone or something.
• Legendary – Very famous and admired; often talked about for many years
• Fearsome – Looking or seeming very frightening.
• Tactical – Done with careful planning to achieve a goal.
• Enthusiastic – Showing great excitement and interest.
• Contradictory – Saying or showing the opposite of something else.
• Privilege – A special advantage or benefit that not everyone has.
• Inheritance – Money, property, or qualities received from family members.
• Willingness – Being ready or happy to do something.
• Chaotic – Very messy, confusing, or out of control.

As parents, our default instinct is often to teach. Yet, as we step into the new worlds and unexpected adventures of parenthood, something incredible happens: we learn without even realising it. In those moments, we discover that our children are actually teaching us.

At ILTI, we embrace this same spirit. We make it a priority to truly understand our students, fostering a warm, close connection where they feel heard, valued and inspired to grow.✨

Your 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.

More than a Game, A Way of Life
How Golf Shaped My Character
By Mr Muhammad Aimran Faiz, Deputy Head of Secondary, Knewton Global Schools Rawang

Some of life’s greatest lessons are not always learnt inside a classroom. Sometimes, they are discovered on a quiet golf course, one swing at a time.

My journey with golf began when I was still a young boy. It was my father who first introduced me to the game, patiently teaching me how to hold a club, perfect my stance, and understand that golf was never simply about hitting a ball. To him, golf was a sport that built character, discipline and respect. Looking back today, I realise he was teaching me lessons that would stay with me for life.

In the early years, I spent countless weekends following my father around the golf course. Every round became an opportunity to learn—not only about technique, but also about patience. Golf is a game that rewards consistency rather than perfection. There were days when my shots flew exactly where I wanted, and there were many more when they did not. Yet my father always reminded me that every bad shot was simply another chance to improve.

As I grew older, golf became more than just a hobby. It became a part of who I am. This sport taught me to stay calm under pressure, to think before making decisions, and to accept that success comes through practice, perseverance and resilience. Unlike many other sports, golf challenges you as much mentally as it does physically. Every hole presents a new problem to solve, and every round teaches you something new about yourself.

What makes golf truly special to me is the bond it created between my father and me. Some of our best conversations happened while walking from one hole to another. There were no distractions—just the sound of birds, the fresh morning air and valuable conversations that I still remember today. Those moments strengthened our relationship and gave me memories that I will always treasure.

Today, whenever I step onto a golf course, I am reminded of where it all began. Every swing carries a lesson from my father, every round reminds me to stay humble and every challenge encourages me to become a better version of myself. Although golf is often described as a game, to me it represents much more. It is a lifelong journey of learning, growth and self-improvement.

As the legendary golfer Arnold Palmer once said,
“Success in golf depends less on strength of body than upon strength of mind and character.”

Golf has taught me that life is much like the game itself. There will always be obstacles, unexpected challenges and moments of disappointment. However, with patience, determination and the right mindset, every setback becomes an opportunity to improve. For me, golf will always be more than a game—it is truly a way of life.

 

Key Vocabulary

• Character – the personal qualities that define a person’s behaviour and actions.
• Discipline – the ability to control yourself and work consistently towards a goal.
• Technique – the method or skill used to perform an activity effectively.
• Patience – the ability to remain calm while waiting or facing difficulties.
• Consistency – performing at the same high standard over time.
• Perseverance – continuing to work hard despite difficulties or setbacks.
• Resilience – the ability to recover quickly from challenges or failure.
• Treasure – to value something or someone greatly.
• Self-improvement – the process of becoming a better version of yourself.
• Determination – having a strong will to achieve something despite challenges.
• Mindset – the way a person thinks and approaches situations.

Like golf, learning English also requires patience, perseverance and the courage to keep improving.✨

At ILTI, we are committed in helping every learner develop not only strong English skills but also the confidence to communicate, succeed and embrace new opportunities. After all, every journey towards excellence begins with the willingness to learn.

Call/WhatsApp: 010-395 3067 or email us at info@ilti.edu.my

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A Lesson from Sigiriya
By Mrs Florence Gerald, Deputy Principal, Knewton Global Schools Ipoh

Birthdays are often celebrated with family, friends, laughter and cake. Mine was a little different. To mark my 60th birthday, I travelled to Sri Lanka with some teacher friends. It was a trip filled with laughter, sightseeing and unforgettable experiences. Yet one particular day left an impression on me that I will carry for years to come.

A few days into our holiday, we arrived at Sigiriya Lion Rock, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising dramatically from the surrounding plains, this ancient rock fortress has stood proudly for centuries, challenging visitors from around the world to make the climb to its summit. As I looked up at the towering rock, one thought crossed my mind: What have I got myself into?

From the word go, I had second thoughts. The climb looked daunting. I have always been afraid of heights, and standing at the foot of Sigiriya, I questioned whether I should even attempt it. Part of me wanted to stay behind and simply admire its beauty from below. Yet another part of me knew that if I walked away without trying, I would always wonder, “What if I had?”

Eventually, I took the first step. The climb was more demanding than I had imagined. About a quarter of the way up, exhaustion began to set in. I wasn’t sure I had the energy or stamina to continue. Yet it wasn’t the physical effort that challenged me the most. It was the fear. I stayed close to the rock face, avoiding the side with the railing where I could see the steep drop below. I didn’t dare look down. Strong gusts of wind only added to my anxiety. The higher we climbed, the more my mind began to race. What if something happened to me? I was so far away from my family. Was I doing the right thing? Looking back, I realise it wasn’t the wind that was controlling me. It was fear. Fear has a way of filling our minds with endless “what ifs”, making us doubt ourselves before anything has even happened. For a moment, I seriously considered turning back. Then came a quiet conversation with myself.

“If I don’t try, I’ll never know. And if I turn back now, I’ll always wonder whether I could have done it.”

Those words became my resolve. Instead of worrying about how many steps were still ahead, I focused only on the next one. Then the next. Slowly, one step at a time, my determination became stronger than my fear. The climb did not suddenly become easier, but I began to believe that perhaps I could do it after all.

When I finally reached the summit, the feeling was difficult to describe. There was an overwhelming sense of relief, followed almost immediately by elation. Standing high above the breathtaking landscape, I felt as though I was on top of the world. The panoramic view was spectacular, but what filled my heart was not just the scenery. It was the quiet satisfaction of knowing that I had not allowed fear to make the decision for me.

The journey down felt very different. I was still careful, but I was no longer controlled by fear. I found myself more confident, more relaxed and quietly smiling to myself. The steps had not changed, but I had.

Looking back, I realise that climbing Sigiriya was never simply about reaching the top. It was about discovering something within myself. Sometimes the biggest obstacle isn’t age; it’s the limits we place on ourselves. Fear often convinces us that we are incapable long before we have even tried.

As teachers, we spend much of our time encouraging our students to believe in themselves, to persevere when learning becomes difficult and to step outside their comfort zones. Standing on the summit of Sigiriya, I realised I needed to listen to my own advice. Even after many years of teaching, life still has lessons to offer if we are willing to learn.

I returned home with wonderful memories of Sri Lanka, but I also came back with something far more valuable. I returned with a renewed belief in myself and a reminder that it is never too late to challenge our own limitations. We all have a Sigiriya in our lives. Mine happened to be in Sri Lanka. Yours may take a very different form. It could be a new beginning, a difficult decision, an unfamiliar challenge or a dream that has been waiting far too long. Whatever it may be, I hope you find the courage to take the first step. You may be surprised by what you discover about yourself along the way…

 

Key Vocabulary

• Iconic – Very famous and easily recognised
• Daunting – Seeming difficult, frightening or challenging
• Exhaustion – Extreme tiredness after physical or mental effort
• Stamina – The strength to continue doing something for a long time
• Anxiety – A feeling of worry, nervousness or fear
• Determination – The strong decision to keep going despite difficulties
• Summit – The highest point of a mountain or hill
• Persevere – To continue trying even when something is difficult
• Limitations – Things that stop or restrict what someone can do
• Panoramic – Showing a wide, complete view of an area or landscape

Learning English begins with the courage to try. Every word you speak is a step forward. If you never try, you will never know how far you can go. ✨

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.

The Spring That Rewrote My Story
By Dr. Venix Teo, Deputy Head of International School, Knewton Global Schools Rawang

 

Life has a remarkable way of introducing its greatest blessings when we least expect them.

Mine arrived on a gentle spring morning.

On that day, a little boy stepped quietly into my life and, without saying a single word, rewrote the story of my future. It was a moment of serendipity, a beautiful reminder that life’s most meaningful gifts often arrive in ways we could never anticipate.

People often believe that family is defined by blood. I have come to realise that family is built on unwavering love, steadfast commitment, and the conscious choice to stand beside one another every single day.

Our journey was far from simple. In Malaysia, becoming a child’s legal parent is a meticulous process that demands immense fortitude, patience, and perseverance. What began as a heartfelt dream became a five-year journey filled with paperwork, interviews, home visits, and court proceedings. There were moments when the destination felt impossibly distant yet hope never allowed us to stop believing.

Then came the day when everything changed.

In that moment, one simple word became the most beautiful sound I had ever heard.

“Dad.”

That single word carried more meaning than every document ever signed. Every challenge, every delay, and every anxious moment instantly faded into the background.

Looking back, I now understand that some blessings are intentionally delayed, not to test our patience, but to deepen our gratitude. What once felt like waiting was, perhaps, providence quietly preparing the perfect moment.

Today, my son is woven into the very tapestry of my life. He has transformed my house into a home, my ordinary days into cherished memories, and my heart into a sanctuary filled with purpose.

Although that Spring has faded into memory, its beauty continues to flourish within me each day. Life’s greatest gifts are never defined by how they begin, but by the love, sacrifice and steadfast commitment that allow them to bloom.

Some seasons quietly become memories, yet their beauty never truly fades. Every time I hear the word “Dad,” I am reminded that the most extraordinary chapters of our lives are written not by chance, but by love. And for that one unforgettable Spring, I will remain grateful for the rest of my life.

 

 

Key Vocabulary

Serendipity – The occurrence of finding something wonderful or valuable by chance when you were not expecting it.

Anticipate – To expect or predict that something will happen in the future.

Unwavering – Firm and constant; never changing or becoming weaker, especially in belief, support, or determination.

 Meticulous – Very careful, thorough, and paying close attention to every detail.

Fortitude – Courage and strength of mind that help a person endure difficulties or challenges.

Providence – The protective guidance or care of a higher power, often believed to be God, shaping events for a greater purpose.

Woven – Carefully brought together or combined to form a meaningful whole, like threads woven into fabric.

Tapestry – A rich and complex pattern or collection of experiences, relationships, or events that make up a person’s life. (Originally, it refers to a decorative woven fabric.)

Sanctuary – A place of safety, peace, comfort, and refuge where one feels protected and at ease.

Steadfast – Loyal, dependable, and firmly committed without giving up or changing.

Extraordinary – Very unusual, remarkable, or exceptional; far beyond what is ordinary or expected.

Life has an unexpected way of introducing something big into our lives. Sometimes, a simple event can end up making a 360-degree change in our lives.

One of the best things that can happen to us is getting the opportunity to improve ourselves and upgrade our lives — for example, becoming a fluent English speaker who can write beautifully.

Take your first step today. Talk to us at ILTI. ✨

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.

When will be the last time?
By Aainaa Sofea, Head of Early Years & Language Kinderlabz

 

Do you ever feel like social media is spying on you? Well, I do.

Last weekend, I was idling on TikTok when I came across a piece of content that I genuinely relished. It was an English-speaking practice video where a paragraph of text would scroll across the screen for you to read aloud.

And because social media seems to know everything about me, once I started reading, more and more of these videos kept surfacing on my feed!

Honestly, I didn’t mind. I had time to spare, and I enjoyed reading them in between cute cat videos and those AI-generated movie clips. *grin

Have you noticed that AI-generated movies have become quite a phenomenon these days? Some of them are so well made that they almost feel better than real movies!

Then came another English practice video. This time, the text said:

There is always a last time for everything.
Ironically, you will never know when that last time will be.
You will never know when it is your last dinner with your parents,
You will never know when it is the last vacation with your best friend,
You won’t even know when it is the last time you drive your favourite car,
So, cherish every moment in your life.
Say “thank you” and “I’m sorry” more often. Tell them that you love them.
Because we never know when we will have the opportunity to do it again.

That was it.

The moment I read the very first sentence, I broke down.

Ever since I got married and moved out of my parents’ house, I’ve missed them every single day. Going through my daily routine without them still feels foreign, even now. Reading those words made me feel incredibly emotional.

At that moment, I wished I could start my car, drive back to their house, and embrace them as tightly as I could.

But it was already 1:00 a.m.

So, I had no choice but to hold back my emotions and stop myself from crying like a little kid. I remember I prayed to God to bless them with good health and long live.

Cherish every moment in life.

Now, I understand those words more clearly than ever.

As Meryl Streep once said:

“Life is precious, and when you’ve lost a lot of people, you realise each day is a gift.”

Every moment we spend with the people we love is invaluable. Once that moment passes, we may never have the opportunity to experience it again.

If you’re reading this and you haven’t told your loved ones “I love you” today, please do.

You never know when today becomes the last time.

 

Key Vocabulary

• Idling – Spending time without doing anything important or productive.
• Relished – Enjoyed something very much.
• Surfacing – Beginning to appear or become noticeable.
• Phenomenon – A remarkable event or something that becomes widely popular.
• Opportunity – A chance or favourable moment to do something.
• Broke down – Became overwhelmed with emotion and started crying.
• Foreign – Strange, unfamiliar, or not yet comfortable.
• Embrace – To hold someone closely in your arms; to hug.
• Cherish – To love, value and appreciate someone or something deeply
• Invaluable – Extremely precious or valuable; impossible to replace.

We never truly know when the last opportunity to change our lives will pass us by. That’s why mastering English is what you need to do now—after all, it’s always better late than never! Enroll with ILTI today, and embrace the journey to become the best you can be.

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.

Overcoming the Fear of Speaking – Helping Shy Learners Find Their Voice in English
By Ms Caroline Samuel, Principal at ILTI

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.'”
– Mary Anne Radmacher

Many students understand English well, complete their written work successfully, and perform well in reading and listening activities. However, when it comes to speaking, they become quiet, nervous, or hesitant. They may worry about making mistakes, being laughed at, or not finding the right words to express themselves.

At ILTI, we believe that every student has a voice worth hearing. Speaking English is not about being perfect—it is about building confidence, expressing ideas, and communicating effectively. By creating a supportive and encouraging learning environment, teachers and parents can help shy learners gradually overcome their fear and develop the confidence to speak English naturally.

Understanding the Fear of Speaking

Many children experience anxiety when asked to speak in English. This fear is completely normal, especially for learners who are still developing their vocabulary and sentence structures.

Some students are naturally shy, while others may have had previous experiences where they felt embarrassed after making mistakes. Others may compare themselves with classmates who speak more fluently and become afraid of being judged.

For example, during a classroom discussion, a student may know the correct answer but choose not to raise their hand because they worry about pronouncing a word incorrectly. Instead of participating, they remain silent even though they understand the lesson. Recognising these feelings is the first step towards helping students build confidence.

Creating a Safe and Encouraging Environment

Students are more willing to speak when they know mistakes are accepted as part of learning. Teachers play an important role by praising effort rather than perfection. Instead of focusing only on grammatical accuracy, teachers can encourage students whenever they make an attempt to communicate. Simple comments such as “Well done for trying,” or “That’s a good idea. Let’s improve the sentence together,” help students feel valued and motivated.

At ILTI, we encourage a positive classroom atmosphere where students support one another and understand that every learner progresses at their own pace. When students feel safe, they become more willing to participate and take small risks in speaking English.

Building Confidence Through Small Speaking Opportunities

Confidence develops gradually through regular practice. Rather than asking shy learners to give long presentations immediately, teachers can begin with simple speaking activities.

For example, students can:

• Introduce themselves to a partner.
• Describe a favourite toy or hobby.
• Answer simple daily questions.
• Read short dialogues aloud.
• Share one sentence about their weekend.

These small successes help students realise that speaking English is achievable. As confidence grows, students naturally become more comfortable speaking in front of larger groups.

Learning Through Pair and Group Activities

Speaking becomes less intimidating when students practise with classmates instead of speaking alone in front of the entire class. Pair work and small group discussions allow learners to practise English in a relaxed setting. Students encourage one another, exchange ideas, and build confidence together. For example, during a picture description activity, two students may work together to describe what they see using simple English sentences. As they discuss the picture, they naturally practise vocabulary, sentence construction, and pronunciation. These collaborative activities reduce anxiety while making speaking enjoyable and meaningful.

Accepting Mistakes as Part of Learning

One of the biggest obstacles to speaking is the fear of making mistakes. The truth is that mistakes are an essential part of language learning. Every successful English speaker has learned through practice, correction, and continuous improvement. Teachers should correct mistakes gently without interrupting students’ confidence. Instead of immediately pointing out every error, teachers can allow students to finish speaking before providing helpful feedback. This approach helps students remain confident while continuing to improve their language accuracy.

At ILTI, we remind our students that every mistake is another opportunity to learn.

Using Real-Life Communication Activities

Students gain confidence when they practise English in situations they may encounter outside the classroom. Role-play activities make speaking both practical and enjoyable.

Students may practise:

• Ordering food at a restaurant.
• Asking for directions.
• Introducing themselves to a new friend.
• Shopping at a supermarket.
• Booking a hotel room.
• Conducting a simple interview.

These activities prepare learners for real-life conversations while helping them understand that English is a communication tool rather than simply another school subject.

Celebrating Progress, Not Perfection

Every learner develops confidence at a different pace. Some students begin speaking confidently within a few weeks, while others require more time and encouragement. It is important to celebrate every achievement, no matter how small. A student who answers one question today may volunteer to participate in a discussion next month. These small milestones represent significant personal growth. Recognising progress motivates students to continue challenging themselves.

The Role of Parents

Parents can play an important role in helping children become more confident English speakers.

Simple activities at home can make a big difference:

• Encourage your child to speak English during everyday conversations.
• Praise effort rather than correcting every mistake.
• Read English storybooks together.
• Watch English cartoons or educational programmes.
• Ask open-ended questions that encourage longer answers.
• Give your child time to think before responding.

Most importantly, avoid comparing your child with others. Every learner develops confidence at their own pace.

How ILTI Supports Speaking Confidence

At ILTI, developing confident communicators is one of our primary goals. Our Cambridge English programmes provide students with regular opportunities to practise speaking through:

• Interactive classroom discussions.
• Pair and group activities.
• Role-play and real-life communication tasks.
• Storytelling and presentations.
• Speaking games and vocabulary challenges.
• Individual feedback and positive encouragement.

Our teachers create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves while steadily improving their communication skills. We believe that confident speaking develops through consistent practice, patience, and encouragement.

Practical Tips for Parents

Parents can help build speaking confidence by:

• Speaking simple English during daily routines.
• Encouraging children to express opinions in English.
• Playing language games together.
• Reading aloud as a family.
• Praising confidence rather than perfection.
• Creating opportunities for children to communicate with others in English.

These small daily practices reinforce what students learn in the classroom.

Vocabulary Galler

Confidence – belief in one’s own ability.

Communication – sharing ideas and information with others.

Pronunciation – the correct way of saying words.

Fluency – speaking smoothly and naturally.

Encouragement – giving support and confidence to someone.

Participation – actively taking part in an activity.

Role-play – acting out real-life situations for learning.

Vocabulary – the words a person knows and uses.

Conversation – a spoken exchange between two or more people.

Self-confidence – believing in your own abilities.

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.

Chasing Heights: Kinabalu and the Making of Resilience
By Ms Bong Sew Hwa, Primary and Secondary Teacher – Mandarin as Foreign Language, Knewton Global Schools Rawang

In life, we are often summoned not by circumstance alone, but by an inner calling to confront the unseen mountains within us. My journey to Mount Kinabalu was not merely a physical ascent, but a quiet unfolding of self-awareness. Beneath the demands of altitude and terrain lay a deeper encounter—with uncertainty, with limitation, and ultimately, with growth.

Preparation began long before the mountain came into view. In the dim stillness of early mornings, my students and I gathered at Batu Caves, returning week after week to its 272 steps. What first appeared routine gradually evolved into ritual. Each climb became an exercise in rhythm and restraint—measured breathing, deliberate pacing, and the steady negotiation between effort and fatigue. Over time, the repetition refined not only our physical strength but also our capacity for focus.

Yet it was within these shared moments that my reflection as an educator deepened. I watched my students encounter challenge in their own ways—some with quiet resolve, others with hesitation that slowly gave way to courage. In guiding them, I became increasingly aware that teaching is less about direction and more about presence. Like the climb itself, it demands patience, attentiveness, and the humility to recognise that growth unfolds differently for each individual.

On the mountain, distractions fell away. Each step became intentional, each breath a reminder of my own limits. The body laboured, but it was the mind that required greater endurance. It was here that I understood that resilience is not a fixed trait, but a practice—formed in moments when continuing feels uncertain, when the path ahead is obscured, and yet one chooses to proceed.

There were moments when doubt surfaced quietly, almost imperceptibly. Progress slowed, and the summit felt distant. In those spaces, I came to recognise that perseverance is seldom dramatic. It resides in the ordinary decision to take the next step, even when certainty is absent. In many ways, this mirrors the work of an educator—where effort is continuous, outcomes are gradual, and belief must remain steady.

The mountain’s silence fostered a profound sense of camaraderie. Without the need for words, connection emerged through shared effort and mutual understanding. It reflected the unspoken bonds within a classroom—relationships built not through grand gestures, but through consistency, trust, and time.

As we climbed in the early hours, guided only by dim light and instinct, the journey demanded fortitude. There was little to anchor the mind beyond the rhythm of movement. In that stillness, I reflected on the necessity of remaining unwavering—not rigid, but grounded in purpose. As educators, we are often required to hold that steadiness, offering direction even when the path is not immediately clear.

Reaching the summit was neither triumphant nor loud. It was, instead, a transcendent stillness—a moment suspended between effort and arrival. Standing above the clouds, I felt not conquest, but clarity. The mountain had not been something to overcome, but something that revealed.

In that moment, I crossed a personal threshold—an understanding that both teaching and climbing are not defined by their outcomes, but by the transformation they invite. We do not guide students merely towards achievement, but towards awareness—of their strengths, their limits, and their capacity to grow.

Not all who began the climb reached the summit, and this, too, carried quiet significance. It reminded me that progress is not linear, nor is it uniform. As educators, our role is not to measure worth by completion, but to recognise effort, to honour individual journeys, and to support with discernment.

Ultimately, this experience reshaped my understanding of both resilience and teaching. In training alongside my students, in walking beside them rather than ahead, I came to see that education is a shared ascent—one that requires reflection as much as instruction. The mountain remained unchanged, yet I did not. And in that subtle transformation, I discovered that true resilience lies not in conquering, but in understanding—of self, of others, and of the journey that continues beyond the summit.

Key Vocabulary

Summoned – called or invited to undertake something important or challenging

Ascent – the act of climbing upwards, especially a mountain

Endurance – the ability to persist through difficulty or hardship

Resilience – the capacity to recover and remain strong after challenges

Perseverance – continued effort despite obstacles or setbacks

Camaraderie – mutual trust and friendship among people sharing an experience

Fortitude – mental strength in facing adversity with courage

Unwavering – steady and resolute; not weakening

Transcendent – beyond ordinary experience; deeply uplifting or spiritual

Threshold – a point at which a significant change or transition begins

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

Transform your English skills—one word at a time.

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

Transform your English skills—one word at a time.