Spur one another on - Teachers` Christian Fellowship

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TEACHERS’ CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP MALAYSIA | CONNECTING HEARTS AND MINDS | 2013 VOL 25 ISSUE 3
Spur one another on
And let us consider how we may spur one
another on toward love and good deeds.
Hebrews 10:24
PP6303/09/2012 (030561)
Contents
Editorial
1
My Favourite Things
2
Character Counts
4
A Journey of Touching Hearts, Teaching Minds and Transforming Lives
6
The Last, the Lost and the Least
8
My School in the Jungle
10
Bloom Where you are Planted!
12
Moving On
13
Exams are Here Again
15
TCF Sarawak Conference
17
Infinite Love – The Subang Rally
20
AGO Camp
In partnership
21
Editorial
R
ecently I had the privilege of attending two very ‘happening’ school
events. Both attracted participation from several schools in the
Klang Valley. It made me realise that great things can happen when
school principals, teachers, student leaders, former students and
friends team up and work together. Building synergies beyond our own school
walls seems to be the way to go. These events are also great opportunities for
students to pick up leadership and organisation skills when they get involved in
the planning and running of events.
In this issue, read about a girls’ camp and a student rally where students
had a wonderful time learning God’s word and worshipping Him together. In
another school, collaboration with friends and contacts outside the school made
it possible for them to initiate a project to care for some of its marginalised
students. This proves that a compelling vision and cause can attract others to
participate and contribute as well.
While academic performance is top priority in our examination oriented society,
helping to instill integrity and values in students is equally important. When the
results of public exams are announced each year, students who perform well
get instant recognition, but rarely do students of great character make the news.
So it is heartwarming indeed to discover a school that recognises and rewards
its character stars! Read about this school that believes in shaping students’
character through its character education programme.
And while many of us may react negatively to change, read about a lecturer’s
stoic response when her college relocated to a new place more than 50 km from
home. Another teacher posted to a rural school discovers that there is more than
one way of living and seeing the world.
Happy reading!
“In the same way, let your light shine before men, that
they may see your good deeds and praise your
Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Editorial Committee
Indyrany Kannaiya
Liew Nyuk Lan
Daniel Gan
Goh Hai Bee
Lee Sok Yan
Debbie Yeong
Sim Kwan Hoon
Printer
YH Print Enterprise
Creative Layout & Design
Petrix Trading & Service Agency
E-mail: petrixad@gmail.com
TCF Office
C10-0-05
Subang Perdana Goodyear Court 3
47610 Subang Jaya
Selangor, Malaysia
Tel / Fax: 03-5637 5623
E-mail: tcfmy@pd.jaring.my
Website: www.tcfmy.org
Facebook: TCF Msia
Nyuk Lan
IN STEP is a non-profit Christian
newsletter published four times
a year by the Teachers’ Christian
Fellowship Malaysia (TCF). It is
dedicated to Christian educators
and issued FREE to TCF members.
Views expressed are the writers’ and do
not necessarily represent those of TCF.
2013 VOL 25 ISSUE 3
IN STEP • 1
My Favorite Things
by Debbie Yeong
Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with strings
These are a few of my favorite things …
T
he lyrics of the song “My favorite things” from
the Sound of Music are a poignant reminder
for me to focus on my favorite things in
school. There are invariably days when I get
simply overwhelmed by things and people that bite, by
circumstances that sting or just days when I am sad for
some reason.
When the dog bites
When the bee stings
When I’m feeling sad…
2 • IN STEP
It is helpful for me at these difficult moments to focus on
my favorite things in school and regain the strength to go
on again.
One current favorite thing in my school is a privatelysponsored programme for a group of 34 girls. To qualify to
receive RM 100/- per month, the selected girls must come
from needy families and have good attendance in school.
In addition, they must attend at least one school camp
and attend enrichment activities on Saturdays at least 3
times a year.
One recent enrichment activity was a visit to the Sungei
Buloh leprosarium together with the youths from my
church, the Tabernacle of David. My girls were challenged
to give a freewill portion of their RM100 to buy adult
pampers, toiletries and Tupperware for the residents at
the Valley of Hope. They would also sing songs to cheer
them up.
the end, the song practice sessions were very fun and not
as daunting as we thought they would be.
My problem came when I realised that the residents
were mainly Chinese-speaking while my girls were mainly
Indians. How could I teach them the songs? I, the ‘banana’
Chinese was of no help since I do not read Mandarin. And
would my Indian girls feel uncomfortable?
The videos of the girls learning to speak and sing
the Mandarin songs touch my heart and warm it in
advance for difficult moments in school. You can
view the videos and the photos on my blog at http://
principalsblogsmkconventsentul.blogspot.com/2013/08/
visit-to-valley-of-hope-sungei-buloh.html
“No problem!” said the youths from my church. They
downloaded YouTube movies
of the songs and gave me both
the Mandarin and Han Yi Pin
Yin lyrics. It turned out to be
quite fun to learn the song yue
liang dai biao wo de xin (the
moon represents my heart).
It was heart-warming to
watch the girls of very
different social, economic
and cultural backgrounds
interacting with one
another. The Indian
girls tried earnestly to
enunciate the Mandarin
words correctly. I was
also very pleased to
see the normally shy
Chinese girls taking on
leadership roles to teach the Indian girls the
song lyrics, sentence by sentence. Soon they recognised
the Chinese characters for wo ai ni (I love you) and
romantic phrases such as “Soft kisses touch my heart”. In
3 • IN STEP
In addition to bringing cheer to the residents at Sungai
Buloh, the girls gave RM700 out of their RM3400 for that
month. Their generosity showed me that they had learnt to
give despite being from needy backgrounds themselves.
May I challenge you to write short snippets of your favorite
things in school and send them to TCF? Writing
your story will encourage you when
you face difficult moments. It will also
encourage others to focus on the good
gifts from Father God.
Debbie Yeong is the Principal of SMK Convent
Sentul, Kuala Lumpur.
Character Counts
Nyuk Lan catches up with Charles Tiong, Principal of Kolej Vokasional Sibu (formerly known as SM Vokasional Sibu) on the
implementation of the Character First Programme in his school.
What prompted you to initiate the Character First
Programme?
Vocational schools cater for students who are not so
academically inclined, so when I reported for duty in
2008, I decided to focus on character building instead
of academic excellence. At that time there was no clear
model to follow but a local private Institute had embarked
on a similar programme. That sparked some hope in me.
What further inspired me were a 2-day Character Building
Seminar, a visit to Northlight School in Singapore and
reading about a turn-around High School in Singapore.
What were your desired outcomes?
My desired short-term outcome was to see that students
are better disciplined and well behaved, creating less
problems. In the long run, it is my desire that the programme
serves to plant seeds of good character and working
ethics that will equip the students for the workplace.
Can you describe the implementation of the
programme?
Before the Character-First
Programme was launched
by our PTA Chairman, we
had a 2-hour in-house
training to introduce the
programme to the teachers.
We did not intend to have
many activities to add
burden to the already
heavily-loaded
teachers.
But ideas came along as
time went by.
Our motto was “Character
Determines Success”. We
chose 10 pillars of Character
Education. At the beginning
of each month we launch one quality and it went on for 10
months. All the 10 qualities are repeated every year from
January-October.
At every morning assembly, a student would lead the
4 • IN STEP
recitation of the pledge. I also remind the teachers to
emphasise the qualities in classroom as well as outdoor
and co-curricular activities.
Character Counts 2013
CHARACTER QUALITIES
LAUNCHING DATE
Diligence
16 January
Self-control
8 February
Forgiveness
8 March
Attentiveness
5 April
Gratefulness
3 May
Compassion
14 Jun
Orderliness
5 July
Loyalty
2 August
Truthfulness
6 September
Responsibility
4 October
The programme has been going on for 4 years
now. How do you sustain the programme and
keep students motivated?
I do find this a great challenge. I find it helpful to highlight
the success stories now and then at the school assembly.
I remind teachers that character is built by emphasising,
requiring and recognising the right attitudes and efforts.
When we see our students making the effort, we need to
praise those efforts and attitudes rather than achievements.
Every month students and teachers nominate candidates
from every class to receive the Character Star Award. I
think that recognising and rewarding good character
encourages them. Even the teachers receive Character
Recognition at the school assembly. At year-end, we
encourage the students to journal their experiences.
How else do you help students put into practice
the values they learn in school?
Each year the 15-year-old students take part in a
community service project. Each class would adopt an
institution such as the Old Folk’s Home, Sibu Benevolent
Society or the hospital. On their visit, the students offer
practical help like clearing the compound or bringing food
and clothing for those in
need. They also spend
time listening and praying
for them and cheering
them up.
good behaviour. We still have problems with smoking,
substance abuse and students who break hand phone
rules.
A memorable incident
would be a boy who was
at loggerheads with his
mother. We found out
that
their
relationship
Clearing the record of those who have
Last year, in conjunction
had turned from bad to
wronged me and not hold a grudge
with outreach work to
worse. He quit school and
promote
vocational
starting working at a food
I will:
outlet. When his employer
education in Mukah, we
1. Be quick to forgive
found out that the boy was
pre-identified 2 very poor
2. Not cover up my own wrong but will be
under-aged, he kindly sent
families. Then the students
quick to ask for forgiveness
the boy back to school. We
had fund raising activities
3. Not seek revenge
then contacted his mother.
to buy some basic
4.
Respond
kindly
to
those
who
hurt
me
This happened during the
necessities for the families.
5. Not take up others’ offenses
The
Electrical
Class
month of “Forgiveness”.
students even helped one
My school counselor sat
family to rewire the house.
them together to help them
work through their issues.
In the end, the mother and son hugged each other and
What changes have you seen in the staff or
wept while asking for forgiveness.
students?
FORGIVENESS
We have not seen dramatic changes, but generally
students are respectful and make the effort to practise
Charles Tiong with teacher Paul Chuo
5 • IN STEP
A Journey of Touching
Hearts, Teaching Minds
and Transforming Lives
by Julia Willie Jock
SM La Salle
A Well Led Schoo l
tters
Every LaSallian Ma
arner
Le
A
n
lia
Every LaSal
cess
Suc
A
n
lia
Every LaSal
I
always knew I would make an excellent teacher (No,
no don’t get me wrong. I am not being arrogant but I
am just passionate about teaching). This was proven
when in 1994 I was appointed a Guru Cemerlang
DG48 for English Language, but never in my wildest
dreams did I ever think I would make an excellent principal.
I guess God has other plans for me.
mentor Mary Yap was the principal. That was a blessing,
I had someone whom I could count on in times of need
and mind you there were many instances where I would
call Mary and our code word was “Mary is anyone with
you?” That code meant, “I am in trouble and I need your
counsel.” Believe me, God always sends angels to help
us in our moments of need.
My journey started in 1995 when I was promoted to be a
DG48 Pengetua and transferred to SMK Kinabutan,Tawau,
a rural school with 3,000 students, 143 teachers and 30
support staff. My dilemma then was – to accept or to
decline, bearing in mind I was already in DG48. My director
told me, “We need you; we are giving you the opportunity
to be an excellent head”. With support from my husband
and encouragement from my mentor I accepted the post.
Little did I know what was in store for me. SMK Kinabutan
was really a school in dire need of leadership. Everything
that could go wrong did so in that school. To console
myself, I thought since it was already at the bottom, there
was no other way to go except UP!. I believe the good
Lord had a hand in choosing this school for me. Indeed it
was a baptism of fire for me but HE opened a door for me,
for right down the road was SMK Jalan Apas where my
Twenty months later I got a transfer to SMK Badin, Tuaran,
forty five minutes out of Kota Kinabalu. This was a large
school with 2,700 pupils. This school was also ready for
change and together with the teachers and the PTA we
worked to clean up the school and put order where there
was none. I remember my first day. While talking to the
Chairman of the PTA, I received a call informing that there
would be a gang fight that day involving my students, so
off we went to the Police Station. From that moment, the
head of the Tuaran Police became my friend. He attended
an assembly, told all and sundry that “Pn Julia is my friend;
I will help and look after her.” The next day he personally
rounded up students playing truant, and marched them
into the school. After that students were much easier to
handle. Again another angel!
6 • IN STEP
After ten months, I was transferred to Sabah College. I was
dumbfounded. In a few months the principal of La Salle
Secondary would be retiring and I had been headhunted
for that post. Sabah College! I was speechless. Sabah
College is the premier government secondary school
that has churned out personalities and leaders not only
of the state but of the nation. It seemed so daunting.
With 2,700 plus students and 100 plus teachers, it was
a school then that was too large and its discipline had
seen better days. To tell the truth I was scared I was not
up to the task but how could I tell my superiors that I was
scared. So with no valid excuse and trusting the Lord,
I reported for duty. Needless to say that school threw
challenges as well as opened up opportunities enabling
me to grow and become stronger as a leader. Being a
premier school we were always in the limelight be it for
good reasons or otherwise. The first thing we did was to
create a Sabah College Team. Together we worked to
bring back the glory of yesteryears. Discipline became our
priority. We tightened discipline and took tough actions
against students regardless of who they were. Once we
had discipline under control we decided that “Nothing
Succeeds like Success” and so we worked on our niche
areas: rugby and traditional dance. When we won even
small tournaments we celebrated like we won the World
Cup. Gradually, the students and teachers began to feel
proud to be “Collegians”. With our green and gold school
colours we made our presence felt and with that slowly
but surely Sabah College became a school of choice.
Upon reflection, I realise that God only gives us challenges
to enable us to grow but never to defeat us.
After being at the helm of Sabah College for 8 years I was
transferred at long last to La Salle Secondary School. I then
realized that God does things in His time; had I come to La
Salle in 1998 I would never have had the opportunities to
grow as much as I did at Sabah College. Being a premier
government school we were involved in many programmes
such as the Pilot School for the ICT subject for SPM and
STPM. Sabah College was one of the few schools that
way back in 2000 already had an international programme
“Dreams and Teams” and a sister school in Manchester.
I was involved in the drawing up of the NPQH evaluation
and that gave me the opportunity to work at the ministry
level. I had international exposure through representing
the Ministry at international events like the Commonwealth
Ministers of Education Conference in Cape Town and the
SEAMEO INNOTECH Manila conference.
With so much experience and exposure as well as
invaluable networking, coming to La Salle in 2006 was
timely. In La Salle it was a homecoming of sorts for me
being an “Old Girl” and an ex teacher. I came at the time
7 • IN STEP
when La Salle Schools worldwide were relooking at their
current scenario. We at La Salle Kota Kinabalu decided
that there was an urgent need to reenergize our Lasallian
Heritage and Tradition. That was quite a special task, one
made easy with the enormous help and support from the
La Salle Board of Management, the PTA, the Alumni and
the school population. We decided our focus should be
on our values of “Faith, Service and Community” and to
all “Share a Common Dream, a Common Mission” and
to especially focus on “the Last, the Lost and the Least”
making sure that “Every Lasallian Matters”. Our induction
programmes “I am a Lasallian” for all Form One and Lower
Six Students and new teachers as well as “Proud to be a
Lasallian “ for Form Four students are crucial to ensuring
all students and teachers alike understand our philosophy
and what we stand for and that “ La Salle is Something
More”. (Our battle cry)
On my journey I had and I have many fellow journeyers
who share the same passion for the education of the
young: wonderful teachers, supportive parents, alumni
and partners in education all of whom have contributed
to my success. I realised no one really cares how much
you know until they know that you care. Following in
the footsteps of my mentor, it is my mission to nurture
more leaders to lead schools and my personal philosophy
“To Live with a Purpose, To learn
as a way of Life and To Lead to make a
difference.”
in life is
With God’s grace when it was time to apply for the
Pengetua Cemerlang post I was prepared. (For DG 52 I
tried three times before I was successful) I was more than
prepared for the DG54. I thought there was no way I could
be promoted to JUSA C as all the other principals heading
prestigious schools were much better than me. But I gave
it my best shot with guidance from Datuk Mary Yap. Praise
the Lord in June 2010 I was appointed JUSA C. Many
people believe that if we head a normal school like La
Salle Secondary School we would never have a chance at
the JUSA C post but critics were wrong. By God’s grace,
a supportive family, a nurturing mentor, dedicated staff,
loyal students and caring friends, anything is possible
and I am humbled to be given the Pengetua Cemerlang
“Touch
Hearts, Teach Minds and Transform
Lives” as we do in La Salle, recognition beyond our
JUSA C post. It is true that when we sincerely
wildest dreams will come our way.
The Last, the Lost
and the Least
T
he students, smartly dressed in maroon blazers
and sharp white pants, ushered us- a large group
of school principals- to the bus bound for their
school. School principal, Madam Julia Jock,
welcomed us warmly at the school gate. I was pleasantly
surprised that members of the Parent Teacher Association
(PIBG) were also present. The engaging manner of the
students, the friendly and confident principal, the support
of the PIBG and parents, the commitment of the teachers
and staff all spoke a clear strong message – there was
a deep pride and a deep love for their school. Why was
there this deep love for their school? How was their school
different from other schools?
As I walked around, I saw how this love was
nurtured. The many framed newspaper
cuttings on the walls and the stairways
spoke of the school’s successes. The
display of nicely framed students’ artwork
celebrated the students’ creativity. There
were large murals painted by the students
and large framed pictures of students
playing football! I saw photos of students
carrying out challenging activities at the
outward bound school. One huge banner
declaring SM La Salle as “Home of Chelsea FC, Soccer
School Sabah” clearly showed the school’s emphasis on
leadership and teamwork development through sports.
The La Sallian heritage and tradition were obvious through
the displayed visuals:
Every La Sallian matters.
Every La Sallian a learner.
Every La Sallian a success
Every La Sallian shall be a scholar, a
sportsman and a gentleman.
Note the word – Every. No one was to be an exception.
No one was left behind.
It was not just the rich history of the school. It was not just
8 • IN STEP
by Debbie Yeong
the success stories. The La Sallian tradition and heritage
did not just celebrate successes but their primary focus
was on the last, the lost and the least.
We were brought to an unusual classroom. That classroom
was special – it was decorated with long vertical colorful
cheerful stripes. This was the classroom where those
who were slower in their studies were coached during
school hours. Who taught them? Volunteers, comprising
ex-teachers and ex-students, came in to coach these
students. I was also told that the senior assistant for cocurriculum activities had even opened some rooms in his
Holistic learning – academics, physical and moral values.
home so that students who lived nearby could go there to
do revision at night! The focus on the last, the lost and the
least was very real.
In SM La Salle, Sabah I saw many pictures of Father
Barre, founder of the La Salle foundation and pictures of
many missionary headmasters of the school. They truly
honored the sacrifices of the missionaries to make holistic
education in Malaysia a meaningful reality.
The walls speak. I saw all kinds of visuals. The pictures
are all properly framed and not in small sizes. Most of
the framed pictures were A2 sizes. There was a framed
newspaper cutting of how SM La Salle students produce
tactile books for the blind. One poster highlighted a fund
raising program “RM 1 for Hope” to help Muneeb, a poor
6-year-old boy in Pakistan. The students were taught to
care for the less fortunate.
Character development was deliberate. Up across on the
beams along the corridor, I read.
A La Sallian is compassionate.
A La Sallian is obedient.
Purposeful faith formation was an integral part of the La
Sallian ethos.
The La Sallian Spirit of Faith
Believe in your God,
no matter the doubts.
He is strong and He cares for you
Believe in your yearnings,
no matter how vague or subtle….
Believe in your questions,
no matter how trifling…
Believe in your gifts no matter how small
Big properly framed pictures
celebrating students’ work
So often we are tempted to ditch our inner yearnings
because they are subtle and vague. So often we abandon
our questions because we feel they are trifling. The La
Sallian Spirit of Faith directs us to connect with our inner
selves and stay true to what is within rather than just what
is outside.
I realised here in La Salle, what was stressed was not
just academic excellence of some minority elite group.
What was stressed was the holistic development of every
student in the school, including the last, the lost and the
least. I realised I had been unconsciously trapped in the
rat race to pursue KPI in academic excellence and worldly
success as dictated by the world outside. Here at La Salle
I was connected once again to the heart of the missionminded educator to reach out to all.
Date: 9 -11 Dec 2013
Venue: Tower Regency Ipoh
Cost: RM 260 (adults)
RM 120 (children)
Contact: Chan Chee Weng
HP: 016 - 592 9480
E mail: zhrchan@yahoo.com
9 • IN STEP
Debbie and the smartly
dressed La Sallians
My School in the Jungle
by Joseph Woo
P
anampang? Where is that? I was utterly shocked
when I received news of my first posting. I had
applied for Johor, but the text message instructed
me to report to Panampang, Sabah. Much to my
relief, a Google search showed that its location was very
close to Sabah’s capital city, Kota Kinabalu or KK.
My relief was short-lived though, for as soon as I arrived at
KK, the District Education Officer who came to meet me
said, “Woo, you dapat sekolah pedalaman yang sangat
dalam, P3, SK Buayan, tiada kereta dapat masuk ke
sekolah, perlu jalan kaki, telefon line pun lemah”. It took
a while for the words to sink in – very far in the interior,
accessible only by 4-wheel drive and walking, poor
telephone reception. But how can this be? The Google
map had shown that it was located very close to the capital
city and airport. I felt completely unprepared. I thought I’d
been posted to a town school near the capital. I had even
brought along my guitar, thinking that I could serve weekly
in a city church, and I had packed only basic stuff in a big
trolley suitcase. After all, I could easily get whatever else I
needed in town, I had thought.
From Kota Kinabalu to SK Buayan
I remember my first trip to SK Buayan. From KK, it took
one and a half hours to reach a place called Dupis where
the road ended. Then, from Dupis, it was another 2
hours’ walk to reach the school. But thank God, a ‘road’
connecting Dupis and Buayan was completed in January
this year. So now, it takes a 2-hour drive on muddy, hilly,
trunk roads and three river crossings to reach the school
from Donggongon town. Due to the bad road conditions,
passengers have to at times either pull or push vehicles
10 • IN STEP
stuck in a hole or mud along the way. When rains make
the roads impassable to vehicles, teachers have to walk
6 hours to get to town. I’ve walked in and out four times
now, and I must say it really builds your perseverance. As
a ‘town boy’, I had never imagined a journey could be
this long and tough, but with God’s help and strength, I
have managed to ‘survive’. And I have learnt a lot about
Jesus from these journeys. I felt His tiredness walking to
the cross and I know how Moses felt leading the Israelites
to the promised land.
Sekolah Kurang Murid
As a student, many great teachers had impacted my life,
the most outstanding being my own aunty, Esther Ho
Chee Ngan. She was the one who helped me see the
beauty and importance of education in every child’s life.
Thus, I wanted to be like my aunt and the other inspiring
teachers, impacting and guiding children to the right paths
via education and faith in God.
God is the other reason why I chose education. I still
remember stepping out for an altar call during ESPlosion
Camp 2005 (a national Presbyterian youth camp) at Batu
Pahat when I sensed God’s call to me to be a teacher.
Though a bit lacking in faith at that time, I applied to go
to IPG.
Well, here I am now in my school, SK Buayan, situated in a
valley on the Crocker Range. It is a school built in 1964 for
the children of Kampung Buayan, a predominantly Catholic
community. With the current enrolment of 38 pupils, it is
categorised as an SKM school (Sekolah Kurang Murid).
Life in Panampang
Teaching in my school is enjoyable yet challenging at the
same time. It is enjoyable because the students are very
obedient and willing to learn. The challenging part is their
low proficiency, so teaching them English really takes a lot
of patience, creativity and stamina. I was trained to use
videos, Power Point presentations and educational CDROMS but I can’t apply that here due to poor internet
connection. There is also no continuous electricity supply.
However, I thank God that my training at IPG included
using songs, poems, jazz chants, puppets, plays and
dramas in the language classroom. These stuff work great
here.
Initially, I stayed in the teachers’ quarters in school, where
we did our cooking using
firewood. Early this year, 2
new houses were built for
us in the village and I stay in
one of them now. During my
free time, I play the guitar, go
jogging around the village,
play volleyball with teachers
and villagers, spend time
with God, read books on
Christian living and help
beautify the classes and
school compound with my
colleagues.
On weekends, I stay at my
friend’s place in KK and
attend Likas Baptist Church
with my friend,
Jasperin
Ong. I am fitting very well into
this church. Her family, the
pastors, leaders, members
and youths are very caring
and helpful people. I still
remember the first time I attended the church’s prayer
meeting. The church prayed for me as if I was part of their
family. I was so touched and overwhelmed by their concern.
I am now helping mostly in their youth programme called
Royal Friends (RF).
My reflections
I think God sent me to Penampang to enrich my life. City
life in KL during my student days was about gadgets,
fast internet, fast mobile data plan, strong mobile phone
reception, a lot of entertainment and frequent movies
and outings to make my life interesting. But here, I have
discovered the joys of simple living. I realise that we don’t
necessarily need a lot of money and things in life to live it
11 • IN STEP
meaningfully and happily. The villagers here are contented
with having a paddy field and planting fruit trees as well as
vegetables. Their focus is not on money or material things.
Instead, they value friends and neighbours. They treat me
like a family member. They frequently come to my house
and fellowship with me and bless me with the fish they
catch and vegetables from their garden. They cherish their
neighbours, something I seldom see in cities today.
Other than that, I think God sent me here so that I can
strengthen my relationship with my girlfriend, Eliana Pak,
who is now teaching in Perak. It might sound illogical
because we are very far apart, but it is due to this distance
that we learn to trust God more in our courtship. We also
learn to trust each other and cherish each other more
whenever there is a chance to
spend time together.
Moreover, I think I was sent
here so that I can experience
and learn from the warm
and friendly local people.
Sabahans, I find, are generally
very kind-hearted, quick to
forgive, helpful, polite, and not
self-centred and I believe God
wants me to learn these good
characteristics. Even though
I am new, I feel very much at
home in Kg Buayan. Even on
the streets in Donggongon
town, you can wave at anyone
and they will wave back at you
with a polite smile.
Looking ahead
I think I will be here for the
next 2 years, but I might stay
longer if it’s God’s will. I hope I
can make a difference in the lives of the Buayan children
like how my aunt, Sunday School teachers, Boys’ Brigade
officers, YF advisors, IPG CF lecturers and many other
great educators did for me. I hope I can guide the children
in experiencing God’s love and build up their faith in Jesus.
I really hope with this spiritual foundation, these children
will grow up to be godly men and women for Christ.
Joseph Woo obtained his TESL (Primary Education) degree at IPG
Kampus Ilmu Khas KL, twinning with University Malaya.
Bloom Where
You Are Planted!
A
ny Christian teacher who has ever been
involved in serving the Lord in their schools
(especially in ISCF or CF ministry) will tell you
how blessed and rewarding it is to be able to
make a difference in their students’ lives. It’s seeing the
tears of joy in their students’ eyes as they accept our
Lord Jesus Christ or in their transformed lives through our
ministering and discipling that makes all our years of lonely
toil and tears so worthwhile!
In Sarawak, more than 70 per cent of the secondary
schools have an ISCF (Inter-School Christian Fellowship).
The ISCF advisers in these schools, though overburdened
with administrative and non-administrative duties, apart
from their normal teaching load, continue to
“run with endurance the race that is set
before them” (Heb. 12:1-2) by teaching the living
Word and moulding the young lives entrusted in their care
to be vessels fit for our Lord’s service.
Persevering alone can be discouraging and Christian
teachers know that they can benefit greatly from fellowship
with other believers. This is where TCF Sarawak comes in.
TCF Sarawak has been in existence since 1975 and was
set up under the umbrella of Scripture Union Sarawak.
Its vision is to set up TCF branches throughout Sarawak
to achieve its twin missions of encouraging Christian
teachers to be strong in the Lord and to be fishers of men.
To date, through God’s leading, 22 TCF branches have
been set up. Praise the Lord!
“encourage one another, and build up
one another” (1 Thessalonians 5:11), TCF Sarawak
To
has been working with TCF Malaysia to organise the annual
TCF Day in the major cities and towns of Sarawak since
1999. In addition, the yearly TCF Sarawak conference
and TCF advisers’ appreciation lunch are organised to
exhort Christian teachers to persevere and to be bold and
courageous so as to finish the race and complete the task
God has set for them – to testify to the gospel of God’s
grace to their students and colleagues.
12 • IN STEP
by Tan Ming Tang
In Sarawak, TCF work
is closely linked with
the ISCF ministry.
By
working
with
SU Sarawak’s staff
workers,
Christian
teachers have been
imparting God’s word
to
their
students
during the weekly
ISCF meetings and
also through the ISCF
and leadership camps
conducted during weekends and school holidays. In
2010 alone, 46 ISCF camps were organised in the state
involving a total of 11,230 students. Praise the Lord!
It is such a privilege to be involved in the TCF Sarawak
ministry. When I was asked by the chairman of Scripture
Union in early 1998 to lead TCF Sarawak, I was stunned
and caught completely off-guard. What? Me? I did
not even know what the TCF Sarawak ministry was all
about. In fact, the first TCF Conference I had attended
was only two years earlier in 1996 in Santubong. Christian
teachers? Serving the ISCF in schools? Why, I myself had
never heard of ISCF during my school years, let alone
attend one! But God is sovereign! He can use anyone for
His glory – the meek, the poor, the rich, the weak, the
strong, the talented and untalented.
Initially, I thought my main role as TCF Sarawak
chairman was to go to the field to encourage Christian
teachers serving throughout Sarawak. I was not wrong
in my perception. However, in the process of being an
encourager to others, I found myself being very much
encouraged instead! For example, during my trip with two
SU staff workers (Pastor Zeliman Rining and Pastor Billy
Agan Paran) to Long Bemang in Baram, the school was
flooded. I had expected the ISCF meeting scheduled for
the night to be cancelled. However, the guru besar insisted
that the meeting must go on. He gathered all the students
and then came to fetch us in a boat! I was so touched by
this guru besar’s amazing faith and zeal. That night, God
blessed his faithfulness when all 135 students accepted
Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour!
Another instance was during my visit to a school in
Ba’kalalan. When I asked the guru besar and Christian
teachers what I could do to help them in their ISCF
ministry, they requested more Christian materials to teach
their Year 1 to Year 6 students weekly. I was amazed and
very much encouraged by their level of commitment and
love for their students!
Lastly, an advice to all Christian teachers: Surrender all
your pride, dreams, ambitions and desires to God. His
purposes cannot be fulfilled in our lives if we focus on our
own plans. Continue to persevere and don’t give up. We
all know the story of the hare and the tortoise competing
in a race. The hare is an animal of great speed while the
tortoise is known for being slow. While the hare rested
along the way, the tortoise persisted and kept going. The
perseverance of the tortoise was the deciding factor for
its victory over the speedy hare. There are Christians who
start out with a lot of fire and zeal but they get burnt out in
the process. The ones who endure in the Christian life are
those who run steadily by focusing on the Lord who is the
Moving on
T
he beginning of the year 2013 was significant
to me. It brought many changes to my life. My
workplace was relocated from Cheras, Kuala
Lumpur to Nilai Education Complex, Bandar
Enstek in Negeri Sembilan. It is a rural area set among
Felda schemes.
Packing and moving
The whole of last year, I was busy packing my things and
the department assets to be sent to the new workplace.
The tempo intensified in the later part of the year when I
had to get ready all my movable things for the packers to
send to Bandar Enstek. The common staffroom for the
science lecturers was filled with packed boxes, paper
thrown here and there and discarded things.I also had to
help the laboratory assistants to check, list and pack all
the chemistry apparatus and chemicals. Almost everyday
I had to ask the laboratory assistants, “Have you done
this? Have you done that?” and so on. It was a productive
13 • IN STEP
sustainer and perfector of our faith. Day after day, week
after week, month after month and year after year, they
persevere in their walk with God. Which are you – the hare
or tortoise? Keep “running” the race!
Ming Tang was first posted to Sarawak in 1984 & has been in Institut
Pendidikan Guru Kampus Batu Lintang since 1991.
by Tan Juat Ngoh
time as I weeded through
tons and tons of collectibles
through the years that consist
of books, printed materials,
notes and students’ work.
I brought home important
materials to be temporarily
stored in my house till the new
semester opened in January
2013 (so that they do not get
lost along the journey!) The
storeroom and study room in my house were filled with
piles and piles of files and notes. From here, I learnt that I
am a hoarder of books and printed materials. I kept them
with the thought that “I might need them someday...”.
Shifting workplace is stressful and requires hard work.
Decisions, decisions
It was also a time of making decisions. Shall I stay near
the workplace or travel everyday from home? How far is it
from home? Which is the shortest route to the workplace?
All these questions were answered when the semester
began in early January. God takes care of our needs. Do
not worry unnecessarily. I decided to travel daily. It is only
58km one way. Others are travelling alone more than 60
km one way. I asked a colleague who lives in USJ to car
pool with me. She invited a colleague from Puchong and
another colleague from USJ joined us. Due to unforeseen
circumstances, the car pool did not work for the colleague
from Puchong so till today we have 3 members in the car
pool. We tried taking the Damansara-Puchong Highway
(LDP) and ELITE highway to work. Finally, the best route
for us is the Elite Highway even though the toll is RM4.70
per way compared to the LDP which is RM3.20 per way.
It takes a shorter time to arrive at the workplace. Each
journey always starts with a prayer for safe journey.
Adjusting to changes
It is also a time of adjustment. I wake up at the usual time
of 5.00a.m., get ready for work, have breakfast and leave
the house at 6.00a.m. I have to drive to the colleague’s
house, park my car if I am not driving that day and hop
into another car. By 6.15a.m. we are on our way to work
arriving at 7.00a.m. The positive aspect is that we learn
to like each other despite differences, share our daily
thoughts and experiences and plan for the week ahead.
Sometimes, when one of us is outstation for meetings
or observing practicum, it can be lonely driving alone. I
created a table for each month to track who has to drive
each day; when 3 of us are around (A,B, C) and when 2 of
us are around (A and B, A and C, B and C). This created
fairness and responsibilty. It is also a reminder especially
after long holiday breaks.
Exercising at work
It is a time for exercise. I also have to adjust to moving from
one block of building to another for lectures to another
block which is quite a distance away for administrative
work. At the old workplace, every room was at the same
level near each other and connected by covered walkways.
Here, there are no covered walkways so I have learnt
to carry an umbrella everywhere I go. The buildings are
also split-level and climbing the stairs can be bad for the
knees. My room is on the third floor, which is the highest
floor and I learn to be careful when climbing the stairs lest
I fall. However, climbing stairs has made me healthier with
the extra exercise.
My private space
It is a time to be with myself. In the new workplace, every
lecturer has a room furnished with a work table, cupboard,
14 • IN STEP
computer table, desk computer with direct access to the
internet and a printer. Each lecturer is also provided a
notebook with Wifi. In my years as a teacher and lecturer, I
have always sat in an open, crowded room, edge-to edge
with others. It provides easy banter, communication, noise
and scrutiny. Now, I am in a room by myself. It provides
solitude, quietness and privacy. I learn to do my work
quietly and not disturb others in their room. For days, I
do not see anyone around. What if something happens
to me in the room? It can be unhelpful in fostering social
integration. So once in a while I still chit chat with friends in
their rooms and along the corridors on my way to lectures
or the washroom. I learn to communicate using technology
such as Whatsapp, WeChat and email.
A new lifestyle at the workplace
I learn to eat home-packed food. The canteen is a distance
away. It is hot walking there and it takes time. So I pack
food such as Quaker oats, bread and biscuits from home
and make hot drinks in my office. Once in a while I go
out to eat with friends. I have discovered towns such as
Sepang and Sungai Pelek and get to buy organic dragon
fruit at reasonable prices. Most important of all, I escaped
the terrible traffic jams in Kuala Lumpur. I am sure to arrive
home at 5.40p.m. everyday rain or shine without massive
traffic jams. From my previous workplace in Kuala Lumpur,
I sometimes arrived home at 7.00 p.m.
I count my blessings one-by-one. I am reminded by Psalm
121:
I look to the hills
From whence come my help,
My help comes from the Lord who made
heaven and earth.
Life goes on.
Tan Juat Ngoh is a senior lecturer at IPG Kampus Pendidikan Teknik
Enstek.
Along the school corridors …
The Exams are Here Again
by Daniel Gan
R
andy waited outside the classroom. The
teacher who was invigilating the class was busy
doing her work, oblivious of Randy who had
been standing at the door for some time. As
she exited, Randy stepped into the class and scanned the
students. These were his students and they were sitting
his Physics paper. He was anxious to see how they would
fare.
This was a weak class, prone to inattention during lessons
and indifferent to the quality of grades obtained in exams.
Physics wasn’t an important paper and apparently a
simple pass was satisfactory enough for them. Weeks
before the exams, Randy had tried to drum some urgency
into his students for their lackadaisicalness. He offered
extra classes but the ones who would come for the
lessons were those who didn’t need the extra coaching.
Yet, what was the point of extra classes if during normal
teaching hours, they were hardly paying attention. Some
students were just chatterboxes, talking away the whole
two periods of lesson. Initially, Randy always reprimanded
them. But the constant scolding and admonishment wore
him out too. Finally, he just put up with it, so long as they
didn’t disrupt the class badly.
Randy walked slowly and quietly down the aisles between
the rows of desks. He did not linger by any student so as
not to make anybody nervous having someone peering
down at their answers. A student acted suspiciously
zipping up her pencil case suddenly. Randy stopped by
her desk and searched through the pencil case for any
notes possibly sneaked in. Finding nothing irregular, he
moved on.
Yes, the students knew their weakness in the subject but
they never seemed any anxious about it. It was so unlike
his generation, when students appreciated the value of a
good education. Is it because today’s youngsters trust their
ever-doting parents would bail them out? Lecturing the
teenagers about the good old yesteryears didn’t have the
expected effect. In fact, trying to give advice to students
nowadays was really like the Malay proverb,
air di daun keladi.
mencurah
Maybe, these students were
undergoing adolescence, a rebellious stage in life.To be
15 • IN STEP
an effective teacher, Randy would have to adapt to the
changing behavioural patterns of young people.
Randy stopped by a student whose desk drawer was full of
books and odd pieces of papers. All desks were supposed
to be empty before an exam could start. Notwithstanding
that it was the midst of the exam, he ordered the boy to
clear his desk clean. It seemed unfair and unnecessary to
direct the boy so, but otherwise exam rules would not be
taken seriously.
Do you set a test easy or difficult? Once, Randy set good
and tough questions thinking that his students would be
challenged. However, that only pulled down their marks
and made him look inadequate. Next, he set his tests
easier so that it would reflect the standard of the actual
public exam paper. Perhaps, the students in gaining high
marks might be motivated to aim higher. Then again, what
is easy for the teacher is more often than not still too difficult
for the students. They failed to score. Some students have
grown accustomed to flunking the school exams and are
unperturbed because they know they would do better in
the public exams nevertheless as these are graded on a
lower bar.
In a corner of the classroom, a hand shot across the aisle
to the desk beside. One student was handing her eraser
to the other. Randy walked up and confiscated the eraser.
He would not allow any lending or borrowing. What if they
were passing on notes to one another?
Randy thought about the demeanour of his students.
He envied some teachers who were obvious students’
favourites. Their students clamour for extra classes. Their
students would never be late nor skip their classes for
anything. Their students pay rapt attention, hanging on to
every word coming out of their mouths. Randy felt sorry
for himself because he found that every time he started
talking Physics, some students would routinely switch off
and begin daydreaming. That was until he heard about
students who were rude and obnoxious, students who
would walk in and out of class as they like, and students
who just wouldn’t do any work. He didn’t have any of
these tough cases. Some people say that good teachers
will have good students while weak teachers would have
poor students? Was that true? Randy wasn’t doing too
badly after all.
Randy returned to his table. He sat and stared at the
ceiling. He observed that the fans were wobbling as they
spun the heat of the day away. Would they fall? He noticed
the cobwebs strung across the corners. There’s a little bit
of artistry there in those spiders, he marvelled. He admired
the flowering tree outside the window. Things he wouldn’t
note on any normal day, he started to see.
For Randy, the exams were as much an evaluation of his
teaching as they were of the students. His principal had
said that if students do not do well, the teacher was not
doing his job. Randy felt the statement unfair because it
placed the burden of his students’ success squarely on
his shoulders. It seemed that only the teacher had to put in
effort, while the students could escape blame for their lack
of industry. Yet, in a sense, the teacher was not teaching if
the student was not learning. If the teacher failed to make
the student learn, indeed he was not doing his part. Randy
felt incompetent because he knew some of his students
would not cope well.
Randy looked over the class. Although only an hour had
passed into the two and a half hour paper, some students
had already laid down their pens and were looking around.
These could not sit still and started fidgeting in their seats.
They signalled to their friends for the time. Don’t people
wear watches nowadays? Randy had to remind the
students that this was the exams and there was to be no
communication whatsoever among any one of them.
A thought struck Randy. If he were in his students’ shoes,
would he have managed the exams better? Randy was
master of his discipline but he would definitely struggle in
the other subjects especially subjects like Moral Education
and Sejarah, whose syllabi Randy felt were badly thought
out. Students may not do well in Physics but they may
perform in Biology. Not every student is academically
inclined. Some excel in other aspects. We are not providing
holistic education. The stress on strings of ‘A plus’only
puts unnecessary stress on students. Not doing well in
exams should not drive any student to suicide. Many
success stories in life are from those who were failures
while in school. Many learned more while in the school of
hard knocks. The importance placed on exams is not so
correct, notwithstanding KPIs (Key Performance Indices).
A student asked for permission to go to the toilet. Randy
denied him consent. The boy went back to his table and
sleep. Randy was right. It was not an urgent call of nature.
16 • IN STEP
The lad just wanted to while away the time. Normally,
Randy would not allow anyone to sleep in his class. But
during exam times, he made it an exception. Better they
sleep than they become a noisy nuisance.
Randy continued his reflection. The truth is, nobody
wants to be assessed. If the students in the school were
to carry out a teacher ranking, where would Randy be
placed? If his teaching was to be evaluated, would he
pass the appraisal? Would he be adjudged by the number
of ‘A’ students he produced? Would he be gauged by
the excitement level of students in his classes? When
superiors observe teachers in the classroom, we put
up a good ‘show’ and supportive students play along.
When self-appraisal forms are to be filled up, there is the
tendency to rate oneself high. Like our students, teachers
too are tempted to ‘cheat’ to obtain high ratings. Everyone
wants to get the approval and esteem of others.
Randy imagined he was sitting in a celestial hall taking
the entrance exams to get into heaven. No, that would
be a false gospel. Randy’s salvation was free in Jesus
Christ who had given His life on the cross for him. There
was no other way to eternal life in God. He needn’t earn a
place in heaven through good deeds, an ascetic lifestyle
or passing a strict test. Likewise, a student should not
need to outshine in exams to gain a teacher’s or parents’
endorsement or respect. They are God’s creation, each
fearfully and wonderfully made in His image. Their persons
are more precious than good grades or the good name of
the school.
Randy understood he had been having it wrong all this
while. He began to see his students and exams in a new
light.
TCF Sarawak Conference
Purnama Hotel, Limbang, Sarawak
19-21 July 2013
The border town of Limbang recently hosted the 2013 TCF Sarawak annual conference held at Purnama
Hotel. About 100 teachers, local church pastors, other civil servants, retirees and friends from the private
sector attended the event.
Reflections
I am most grateful for the prayer support of friends and,
cooperation of colleagues in the committee. We are
grateful to the Lord for sending His servant Mr Phua Seng
Tiong to teach His word as well as share his powerful life
transforming stories as a school principal. I am humbled by
the enthusiasm and commitment shown by all the conferees.
The talks by Mr Phua were inspiring, thought-provoking and
practical. We left with a renewed passion in our calling as
teachers – all determined to apply some of the wonderful
ideas shared by the speaker in our schools! Truly we were all
richly blessed by the Lord at this conference.
Matthew Laing, Chairman of TCF Limbang
Mary Ng (right) with Tiong Eng who drove all
the way to Brunei to pick up the speaker
17 • IN STEP
Matthew Laing, Chair of the TCF Sarawak Conference
Organizing Committee.
For many, it was their first time attending a TCF conference.
I know that some are already putting into practice what they
have learnt from the conference, like my friend Irean Pui who
said she has started to memorise the scripture verses given!”
Mary Ng, advisor to the organizing committee
Speaker Mr Phua Seng Tiong
Edward Higo Saging came all
the way from Belaga
The story Mr Phua shared about apologising to a student he had wrongly punished spoke to me. He had to humble
himself to do it, but in the end he gained the students’ respect. This conference has reminded me to use godly wisdom
instead of common wisdom to teach my students.
Ngo Min Lin
I found Mr Phua’s messages both empowering and inspiring. I often felt powerless and helpless when I faced my
hyperactive Form 2 students and lowly motivated Form 4 classes. Now, as I ask God to be in charge of my teaching, I
see gradual changes in the students and myself. I find that I have peace in my heart even when my ‘favourite’ students
misbehave. I find that the students are more ready to listen to reasons when I tell them what I expect from them and why
I make certain decisions in class.
Just the other day, my Form 4 Mutiara surprised me when they did not protest over an essay writing assignment during
the last two periods of the day. Although it was a very hot day, I could see them putting in effort to complete the task. It
must be God putting in His oar in my lesson!
Now, I teach with secret delight in my heart because I am expecting something big to happen all the time. Praise the
Lord!
Hii Mon Lin
18 • IN STEP
Before coming for this conference, I was unsure of my role as a Christian teacher. I knew that as a good teacher I must
teach my subjects well. I was not very interested in getting to know and care for my students. I often leaned on my own
wisdom in dealing with the challenges in teaching and in dealing with school disciplinary problems. When I was not able
to solve these problems, I often felt disappointed and depleted. All these made me unable to enjoy teaching.
At the conference I learnt that in all things, I should depend on the Lord. I realised the importance of time spent in God’s
presence - reading His Word and praying for the Lord’s enabling, strength, wisdom and blessings before going to school.
I was greatly touched by the way Mr Phua connected with his problematic students. The key to reaching these students
is by showing them genuine care and love. I am committed to going the extra mile in caring for the problematic students
in my school.
Antonio William Mike
I learned that teaching is not just a profession; it is a privilege to touch the hearts of many lives (students) and to make
a difference wherever we are placed. We should not see a difficult circumstance as a problem but as a challenge
that can be overcome, not with our own strength but with the power of the Holy Spirit. As teachers we can be God’s
ambassadors, sowing seeds of hope and love for generations to come.
Palaitson Molisin
This conference has opened my eyes to see teaching anew. My journey as teacher started off in 2008. I depended on
my own knowledge, strength, human wisdom, pedagogy and approaches that I learnt in university. At one point I wanted
to quit teaching because it seemed useless to teach these students. But I now embrace my calling as a true Christian
teacher to reach out to my students with God’s love and wisdom from Him to touch their hearts.
Patricia Hong
I really look forward to another conference like this. In fact we would love to have him at our conference in Lawas in
2014.”
John Ting
19 • IN STEP
Infinite Love
The Subang Rally
Taylor’s University, Lakeside Campus
29 June 2013
600 students turned up for this year’s Subang Rally held
at the beautiful Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus.
The event was jointly organised and run by students
and volunteers from a few Subang Jaya school Christian
Fellowships under the guidance of Mr Jacob Matthew.
The carnival-like event began with the marching in of
banners representing each school, accompanied by the
2nd Subang Jaya Boys’ Brigade company band.
Serene Perera shares her experience…
Why would God choose someone like me? That
was my first reaction when I found out that I had
been chosen to be one of the emcees for Subang
Rally 2013. I felt unworthy and not 'holy' enough to
emcee such a huge Christian youth event.
God spoke to me through Pastor Stephanie who
preached about how God's love for us was so great
that he sent his one and only Son, Jesus Christ, to
die for us. We were all sinners, we are all sinners,
and we will be sinners. It is our human nature. But
he still loves us no matter who we are. Jesus died
for us when we did not deserve it. I have heard this
many times before but what really struck me was
realizing that it was not because I was good enough
that God chose me as the emcee for Subang Rally.
I do not deserve to serve the high and mighty God
because I myself am a sinner. It is by God's grace
and love that he chose me to serve him. And when
it is God's will, God would help me to do my best.
I thank the Lord for guiding and helping me through
the whole event and for the souls saved during
Subang Rally. I know that angels rejoice when even
one soul is saved. The Subang Rally 2013 was one
amazing experience for me.
20 • IN STEP
For Jasmine Chee, the highlight of the Rally was the
second session, “Worship was great and so was the
speaker. But it was a real highlight for me because when
they had an altar call, I had a reinforcement (? :)) from God.
He spoke to me through the guy who was praying for me.”
It was wonderful to see students enjoying talks by Pastor
Stephanie Isaacs and lively praise and worship sessions
culminating with a night concert which the students
described as being AWESOME!
AGO (All Girls Out) Camp
St Mary’s School, Kuala Lumpur
6-8 June 2013
This inaugural camp was attended by about 200 girls
from five different mission girls’ schools in the Klang
Valley. The event was made possible by God’s superb
blending and binding together of dedicated volunteers
from St. Mary’s Cathedral and other churches, committed
Christian principals and teachers, former student leaders,
Girls’ Brigade personnel, church pastors, youth leaders,
cheerful givers and prayer warriors.
Unedited FB comment
To the commander Mun, asst. Mel, Naomi and Jun, I
praise and thank God for blessing us with you all whose
service unto The Lord had made this Ago Camp a great
success. Thank you for your labour of love and for your
enthusiasm in running around to ensure everything goes
on well, even when you peeps have to stay up till the
wee hours. I believe God sees your heart and may other
girls be inspired by the four of you and your service to
The Lord that they too will volunteer to be commanders
in the near future for the glory of God and His Kingdom!
Themed ‘Love Actually’, the camp included theme talks
on Christian values, God’s unconditional love and BGR.
This heart logo is made up of 2 question marks. The
logo challenges campers to question what love actually
is and to find the answer
“When we first started planning for the combined girls’
camp, we were not so sure of success. Looking back,
our hearts are filled with grateful thanks to God who
provided us with so many willing helpers and made
God’s unconditional love a reality for the campers, a large
number of whom were non-Christians girls”, said camp
commander Mun Li, an old girl of St Mary.
Many of the campers were touched by God’s unconditional
love for them. Shalomi of SMK Convent Sentul shared, “I
felt so loved by God. I felt God touching me and healing
all my wounds. At that time I felt God telling me that He
loves me for who I am and has forgiven me. I just started
tearing. I felt a burden being lifted from me”.
In between talks, the girls also enjoyed a treasure hunt,
group dynamics games and many interesting workshops
including sushi-making, quilling, grooming, and floral
arrangement.
Quilling project
I was amazed at
how the kitchen
people cooked so
much throughout
the day. Thanks for
keeping us well
fed during camp!
Thumbs up! - Mel
Sushi anyone?
IN STEP • 21
ON OUR POTENTIAL
TCF Malaysia is just one generation from extinction
unless we are able to pass the vision of our founding
leaders to the next generation of teachers.
To me, there are 4 levels of concerns for TCF:
Level 1: Christian youth, especially the Orang
Asli and indigenous people of East
Malaysia
Level 2: Student Teachers and Education
Students in local universities
Level 3: Current Christian teachers and
educators in the country
Level 4: Retired TCF Members
1. Christian Youths
The teaching profession in our country has lost its esteem. Fewer young people
choose teaching as their top career choice.
What TCF is doing, and must continue to do, is to show the ‘lustre’ and ‘mystique’
of teaching to young people in churches and school Christian Fellowships. TCF
must put more effort in working with the Orang Asli and indigenous people of
Sabah and Sarawak. They will make the majority of the next generation’s Christian
teachers.
2. Student-teachers in teacher education institutes and local universities.
It is already difficult enough to get Christian youth to take up teaching. So, we
cannot afford to lose them while they are in training. Every effort must be made to
prepare them to be effective Christian teachers. Sign them up as TCF members
while they are still in training so that they are ‘adopted’ early into the TCF family.
Private education is increasingly popular in our country. Is there a place for TCF
to initiate a private teachers’ training college to meet the unquenchable demands
for private education? The college at least can supply teachers to private schools
run by Christians.
3. Current Christian Teachers
What TCF is currently doing to support the Christian teachers is most
commendable! We must continue to help them ‘enjoy’ their teaching lives in spite
of the challenges.Their need is not more challenges to serve and serve more, to
give and to give more; they are already doing too much. Their need is to know
how to truly relax and enjoy themselves, especially during school vacation, and to
keep the ‘spark’ in their eyes shining bright in spite of today’s education system.
TCF must organise more meaningful and enjoyable holiday programmes.
4. Retired TCF members
I believe each retired member of
TCF has at least 10 years of fruitful
and meaningful service to contribute
to God’s kingdom, especially in
education. We must mobilise retirees
to teach in very poor city areas and
selected rural areas - especially
among Orang Asli children. This
ministry can even expand to poorer
countries in Asia. After all, new
environments often produce renewed
zeal and commitment.
TCF can cater for the special needs
of our single retirees, who do not
have grandchildren to ‘chase’
around. ‘XYZ’ (Extend Your Zeal)
centres for retirees can be set up in
different parts of the country - not as
old folks’ homes, but to take 10 years
of the last lap of their lives for God’s
kingdom; then only do we entrust
them to the care of old folks’ homes.
We must focus on our potential, not
on our limitations. We will be amazed
to see what we have among Christian
teachers and their families. I am sure
they are ready to share, but we are
not tapping their resources, which is
the only route to reach our dream –
THE WAY FORWARD with the next
generation of Christian teachers.
Koh Gim Lam
Former TCF Executive Director
Footnote: This article was first published in
Our Journey – a commemorative volume to
celebrate TCF’s 50th anniversary.
In Partnership