Dr Wan Azizah says teachers are crucial in shaping children’s character as the nation’s strength lies in nurturing knowledgeable, ethical and compassionate individuals
KUALA LUMPUR: The strength of a nation lies not only in economic growth, technological advancement or physical development, but in its ability to nurture knowledgeable, ethical and well-rounded individuals, Prime Minister’s wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said today.
Dr Wan Azizah, who is also the Bandar Tun Razak Member of Parliament, said teachers play a crucial role in shaping students’ character, particularly as children spend a significant amount of their time in school, especially in urban areas where many parents are occupied with work.
“The education system is not merely about imparting knowledge, but about nurturing children to become individuals of noble character, good manners and compassionate hearts.
“Teachers are the ones who shape the nation’s greatest asset…our children,” she said when officiating the 2025 Excellent Service Award (APC) ceremony organised by the Bangsar/Pudu District Education Office (PPD) at the Kuala Lumpur City Hall Training Institute (IDBKL) today.
Dr Wan Azizah also stressed that in the era of artificial intelligence (AI) and the rapid flow of information, the education system must continue to prioritise values-based education and critical thinking to enable students to distinguish between truth and falsehood.
She expressed hope that the recognition accorded to the award recipients would inspire them to continue delivering outstanding service while motivating other educators to strengthen the nation’s education agenda.
Also present were the Prime Minister’s Political Secretary, Datuk Azman Abidin, and Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory Education Department director Megat Affandi Ismail.
The 2025 Excellent Service Award ceremony, organised by the Bangsar/Pudu District Education Office, was attended by about 1,000 guests and honoured 746 teachers and school administrators from 143 schools for their exemplary performance and dedication throughout 2025.
The event was held to recognise the contributions of educators and support staff in strengthening organisational excellence and improving educational outcomes across the Bangsar/Pudu district.
