Fadhlina tells new teachers: Give yourself time to adapt to new postings

In an address to newly appointed educators, Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek advised them to allow themselves time to adapt to new postings, particularly in rural areas. Recalling her visits to Tasik Banding, Fadhlina stated that teachers posted away from home might initially feel sad, concerned, or unprepared, but such emotions do not diminish their gratitude for the opportunity to teach.

Fadhlina noted that while some new teachers are excited to begin their careers, others may be preoccupied with leaving behind family, enduring long commutes, settling into unfamiliar accommodations, and starting life in a new location. She acknowledged that if there is sadness, worry, or a sense of being unready, it is perfectly acceptable.

These emotions do not diminish a teacher's gratitude for the honor of becoming an educator. Fadhlina emphasized that her visits to remote locations have made her reflect on the teachers who arrived before her and continued to teach and become part of the local communities. She reminded new teachers not to rush into embracing their new surroundings, but instead to gradually get to know their schools, students, and colleagues while establishing new routines.

Fadhlina advised them to give themselves time, get to know the school little by little, get to know its students, find new friends, and build a new routine. She suggested that teachers might eventually realize that the children they once saw as strangers could make the distance from home feel less daunting. Fadhlina concluded by noting that when it's time for a transfer, they may look back several times because it's challenging to leave the children who once felt so unfamiliar.