Five siblings from a family in rural Sarawak are carrying on a teaching tradition inspired by their parents, who each taught for more than 30 years [1, 2]. The eldest, 34-year-old Mohamad Azwan Azahari, has been teaching for 10 years and currently works at SK Sebako, the school in his hometown [1, 2]. Two of his younger siblings teach at SMK Beladin and SK Bandar Sungai Buaya in Selangor [1, 2]. Another sibling graduated in economics from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak and plans to pursue a diploma in education [1, 2]. The youngest is studying at the Teachers Education Institute, Tun Abdul Razak Campus [1, 2].

The family home served as a gathering spot for students during the parents’ teaching careers, with extra lessons often held there. Azwan said, “When we were young, our parents would often bring students home to our quarters for extra classes. They even put up a blackboard on the wall so lessons could be conducted there” [2]. Many former students remain in touch and treat the parents with kindness to this day, reflecting the lasting impact of their teaching [1, 2].

Azwan reflected on the sacrifices made by teachers, saying, “One of the sacrifices teachers often make, but which is frequently overlooked, is the time, money, energy, and attention they devote to their students compared with their own families, to ensure students receive the best possible education” [2]. He added that the siblings could only spend time with their parents during school holidays, which taught them independence early on [2].

He also credited their parents’ dedication and prayers for much of the good fortune their family has today. “What stands out most is that many of their former students still keep in touch with my parents and treat them with kindness even now. I believe much of the good our family enjoys today also comes, in part, from their prayers,” Azwan said [2].

Azwan emphasized his mother’s advice: “My mother always reminded us to teach and care for students with the same love and kindness we would want for our own children. She would also often say that we should work sincerely, because only then will our salary be truly blessed” [2].

Azwan’s interview reflecting on the family’s teaching legacy was published on May 16, ahead of Teachers’ Day [2].