Samuel Isaiah, programme director at Pemimpin Global School Leaders (GSL), was recently given a special award by the Sultan of Pahang in recognition of his efforts to improve education in the Malaysian state. During the National Youth Awards 2022 ceremony in Pahang, the 35-year-old educator and Gen.T honouree was presented with a trophy, certificate and RM15,000 (US$3,372) in cash.

“I am grateful, thankful and honoured to receive this award. I believe this award acknowledges the efforts of teachers in Malaysia and serves as proof that teachers who work hard and make a difference in the lives of their students can succeed," says Isaiah.

The former English teacher famously introduced innovative teaching methods at the Runchang National School in Pahang, improving the standard of English among the Orang Asli (Malay for 'native people') students. He was named as one of the top 10 finalists, out of more than 12,000 nominees, for the Global Teacher Prize in 2020.

"As an educator, I'm encouraged that my efforts can be expanded across the state to benefit even more students," he says, adding that he plans to use the prize money towards further improving education in the state.

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