In a continued effort to improve access to education in underserved communities, Taylor’s College has teamed up with Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) RPS Banun to launch a new Learning Hub aimed at supporting the Orang Asli community in Gerik, Perak. The development of the hub was made possible with the collaboration of Shawn Stanly Anthony Dass, an educator at SK RPS Banun and winner of the 2024 RISE Educator Award. It provides a multifunctional space where students, parents, and community members can engage in educational and collaborative activities.
The event was graced by Puan Fadzliaton Zainudin, Deputy Director of Education Resources and Technology Division, Ministry of Education Malaysia who acknowledged the partnership, saying, “We value the cooperation between the private sector with the Ministry of Education in ensuring education can be accessed by all students. Furthermore, this initiative is in line with the concept of ‘Sekolah Milik Masyarakat’ that would not only benefit students but also parents and the community as a whole.”
Josephine Tan, Taylor’s College Campus Director, said, “Education is the foundation of lifelong success, and initiatives like the Learning Hub drive meaningful change, not just for the students and schools, but for Malaysia’s educational landscape. The RISE Educator Award plays an important role in recognising and amplifying the efforts of educators like Cikgu Shawn, who inspire transformation in their communities. Projects like these paves the way for a more empowered and prosperous society, reflecting our dedication to redefining education and fostering inclusive, transformative learning environments across communities.”
The community project was also attended by Sarah Lasung, Head of Training and Leadership at Teach For Malaysia. “It is a privilege to stand alongside Taylor's College as allies in recognizing and celebrating educators who go above and beyond to inspire and uplift others. Seeing Cikgu Shawn’s dedication to his students is a reminder of the difference passionate educators make in our communities. We hope his story inspires others to support and uplift the next generation of learners across Malaysia,” she said.