Educators Key To Building Well-rounded, Competitive Generation - Ministers

KUALA LUMPUR, May 16 (Bernama) -- Cabinet ministers today extended Teachers’ Day greetings to educators nationwide, describing them as the backbone in nurturing a knowledgeable, well-rounded and competitive generation ready to face the challenges of a changing world.

In Facebook posts in conjunction with Teachers’ Day 2026, themed ‘Guru Bitara, Nadi Negara’, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the role of teachers is no longer confined to the classroom, but has evolved in tandem with the digital landscape and artificial intelligence (AI).

“From chalk on blackboards to today’s digital and AI-driven landscape, teachers have continually adapted to ensure our children keep up with the pace of change.

“‘Guru Bitara, Nadi Negara’ is not merely a theme, but a recognition of educators as the guiding light of knowledge and the nation’s future,” she said.

Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said this year’s theme reflects the significant role of teachers as key drivers in shaping character and advancing national development.

He said teachers are not merely conveyors of knowledge, but social architects who help build a more sustainable and competitive Malaysia.

“Through their guidance, the younger generation has become more aware of the importance of protecting the environment and appreciating the nation’s natural resources. The green awareness instilled in classrooms today will help safeguard environmental sustainability for future generations,” he said.

Arthur also expressed appreciation to teachers serving in rural and remote areas, including in Sabah and Sarawak, whom he described as making immense sacrifices to ensure that no child is left behind.

“Your sacrifices in traversing difficult terrain, crossing rivers and living far from urban amenities to ensure that children are not left behind represent a noble educational mission,” he said.

Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said the service and sacrifices of teachers form the foundation for producing knowledgeable, competitive and principled generations.

“Happy Teachers’ Day to all educators who tirelessly impart knowledge, shape character and open pathways to a brighter future for our children,” he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said Malaysia’s progress today is the result of the sacrifices of teachers who have taught with patience, sincerity and compassion, thereby producing scholars, professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs and skilled workers across various fields.

“From the classroom emerges a generation that is knowledgeable, well-mannered, committed to unity and imbued with a spirit of service to the people and the nation,” he said.

Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said that in today’s digital era, the role of teachers is increasingly important, not only in imparting knowledge but also in guiding the younger generation to use technology wisely, ethically and responsibly.

“I greatly appreciate the contributions of teachers who continue to adapt to changing times, teaching with patience and shaping a future generation that is digitally literate, creative and competitive,” he said.

Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said teachers do not merely impart knowledge, but also shape character, nurture hope and mould the future of the nation’s children.

Also expressing appreciation for educators were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Zulkifli Hasan, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, as well as Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.

-- BERNAMA