Finding Joy in Teaching: My Experience with Orang Asli Students

Teaching can be a rollercoaster, filled with ups and downs, but sometimes, the most unexpected moments bring the greatest joy. For me, that joy comes from my weekly Chinese lessons with my Orang Asli students.

Despite being in a Chinese school, these indigenous students eagerly embrace learning a new language. They are shy, but their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn are incredibly refreshing. We read books, perform action songs, and dive into the world of Chinese language and culture together.

One of my fondest memories is training them for a Chinese action song to perform on graduation day. Their excitement and determination to get it right were heartwarming. These moments remind me why I love teaching.

To be honest, teaching my regular classes can sometimes be challenging. Students throw tantrums, aren’t always eager to learn, and classroom management can be tough. Not every lesson goes as planned, and it’s easy to feel disheartened when objectives aren’t met. Plus, if I take on too many subjects, students can get tired of seeing me all the time.

But with my Orang Asli students, it’s different. Meeting them once a week is a breath of fresh air. Their eagerness to learn rejuvenates my passion for teaching. Even though I’m not teaching them English, which is my area of expertise, I find immense joy in our time together.

Reflective Thoughts

This experience has taught me that the most rewarding moments in teaching often come from unexpected places. It’s a reminder to find joy in the little things and to appreciate each student's unique journey. Teaching the Orang Asli students has been a highlight of my career, and I’m grateful for the happiness they bring to our classroom each week.

End note: I would like to thank my orang asli students. Thank you for reminding me of the pure joy of learning and teaching. You make every week brighter, and I’m honored to be part of your educational journey.

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