The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) says there is no pressing need for teachers to lead mass movements as they did in the past, given today’s political and social landscape.
NUTP secretary-general Fouzi Singon said teachers remain important voices when criticising government leaders, especially on social media, even if they are no longer at the forefront as before.
He said the landscape has changed, with Malay society now more diverse and materialistic, meaning the old model of teacher-led activism is no longer necessary.
“In the past, Malay society did look to the teachers to lead nationalist movements. But the situation today does not demand such mobilisation,” he told FMT.
Fouzi’s remarks came in response to Indera Mahkota MP Saifuddin Abdullah’s call for Malay teachers to revive their historic role in activism that helped shape Malaysia’s independence, culture, and politics.
Saifuddin said Malay teachers should serve as catalysts, contributing ideas, community leaders and political activists to steer the nation’s future.
Fouzi agreed that teachers remain key agents of political change, though their contributions often go unrecognised.
“Their current role is to preserve Malay and Eastern socio-cultural values and empower the younger generation to build the nation,” he said.
“It is important not to sideline teachers in national agendas. Their views must be taken seriously. With 420,000 teachers nationwide, it’s possible they could mobilise if the time is right.”
