Ipoh takes centre stage as Malaysia honours teachers as ‘heartbeat of the nation’

THOUSANDS of educators from across Malaysia are gathering in Ipoh as the Perak capital hosts the 55th National Teachers’ Day celebration, an event aimed at elevating the teaching profession as the foundation of the country’s future development and social stability.

The two-day national celebration, which begins today, carries the theme “Guru Bitara Nadi Negara” — translated as “Exemplary Teachers, Pulse of the Nation” — underscoring the role of teachers as exceptional role models responsible for shaping quality human capital and strengthening the nation’s long-term prosperity.

Education director-general Datuk Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said the theme reflects the Ministry of Education’s wider strategy to position educators at the centre of national transformation through the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2026–2035.

Speaking during Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme earlier this week, Mohd Azam said the teaching profession remained central to efforts aimed at producing competitive, skilled and future-ready generations capable of navigating increasingly complex global challenges.

The initiative also aligns with the third strategic thrust of the national education framework, which focuses on transforming educators into highly capable, forward-looking professionals equipped for the demands of modern education.

The concept of “Guru Bitara” refers to educators who embody the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and exemplary leadership, while the phrase “Nadi Negara” symbolises teachers as the lifeblood and primary driving force behind the continuity and well-being of the nation.

A series of programmes has been organised by the Ministry of Education to mark the occasion, including a major spiritual gathering at the Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque, also known as the State Mosque, today.

The programme will feature Yasin recitations, tahlil prayers and a special Friday sermon, and is expected to draw approximately 2,000 worshippers and education personnel.

The event will also be graced by the presence of the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah.

In a rare tribute to the teaching profession, 625 educators throughout Perak are also expected to deliver special Friday sermons at mosques across the state in recognition of their role and contributions to society and national development.

Educators will later be honoured at the National Teachers’ Day Awards ceremony at Kinta Riverfront, celebrating outstanding achievements within Malaysia’s education community.

The climax of the celebration will take place today and is scheduled to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister is expected to deliver a special address to educators nationwide during the ceremony, which will be broadcast live via DidikTV, EduwebTV and the ministry’s official social media platforms to enable teachers throughout the country to participate in the celebration remotely.

The nationwide observance comes amid growing emphasis on strengthening Malaysia’s education system and recognising teachers as the backbone of national resilience, unity and economic progress. - May 15, 2026