Abstract from story of Sharulzaman Idris

I grew up in Kg Padang Jual, Johol, Negeri Sembilan. It was a place filled with memories and experiences that shaped my upbringing. My father worked as a teacher, dedicating his time and energy to educating young minds. Meanwhile, my mother played a crucial role in empowering adults through her work as a teacher in adult education, specifically teaching classes for mature students (known as "Cikgu kelas dewasa" in Malay).

During the formative years of Malaysia, under the leadership of our first and second Prime Ministers, Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tun Razak respectively, the country was going through a transformative period after gaining independence. One of the initiatives undertaken by the government was the organization of adult reading classes for seniors. This program aimed to provide educational opportunities for older individuals who had missed out on formal education earlier in life.

While the younger generation was obliged to attend school, it was a unique experience to witness individuals in their sixties, with white hair adorning their heads, embarking on the journey of learning to read and write. The adult reading classes gained significant popularity, particularly among older women and grandmothers who seized the opportunity to enhance their literacy skills.

My mother, driven by her passion for teaching, actively participated in these classes. She served as an instructor, imparting knowledge and skills to her students. The government recognized the importance of such initiatives and provided allowances to support teachers like my mother in their efforts to educate and uplift the community.

Looking back, I am grateful to have grown up in a place where education was valued and accessible to people of all ages. The dedication of my parents, especially my mother's involvement in adult education, instilled in me a profound appreciation for lifelong learning and the transformative power of education.