KUALA LUMPUR: Social media users are expressing admiration for a Sabah teacher’s dedication to teaching Jawi, the traditional Malay script.
Sabahan teacher Loren Fren shared a video on her Facebook page of her teaching Jawi, quickly going viral with over 1.2 million views.
In the post, she explains that she seldom teaches Jawi writing.
“I recorded a video once as a keepsake. Having finished this year’s Jawi lessons, I’ll resume next year,” she said.
She also spoke about the inclusion of Jawi writing in the Bahasa Malaysia curriculum for Year Four to Six students starting from 2020, aimed at familiarising them with the art, heritage, and history of Malay culture.
“As Malaysians, it’s important to know about this historical script. Let’s live peacefully without negativity,” Loren added in her post earlier this week.
Loren humbly asked that Jawi experts refrain from testing her, as she is teaching strictly according to the textbook.
“I’m still learning and not trying to show off my intelligence,” she said.
The video has received over 1,700 comments, with users from various backgrounds praising Loren’s efforts.
Facebook user @Mahadzir Mohammad Noh commended her for exemplifying the essence of teaching, while @Melica Elca expressed pride, calling Loren an inspiration.
Numerous compliments were also directed at her skillful Jawi handwriting with former Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik extending his congratulations, sharing her video and commending her lesson in “love, happiness and respect.”
Additional videos of Loren, including one where she repairs a student’s torn uniform, have also been circulated online.
Loren thanked everyone for the appreciation shown towards her work and remarked that she is merely fulfilling her duties as a Bahasa Malaysia teacher.
“The positive response to my Jawi teaching took me by surprise,” she said.
