REMEMBERING TEACHER HELEN : A LEGACY OF DEDICATION AND COMPASSION

A HEART THAT SERVED BEYOND TITLE

Some people leave footprints in our workplace, but a few leave a lasting imprint in our hearts. The passing of Teacher Helen Yong Yen Khun is not merely the loss of a former colleague, but the loss of a remarkable soul whose presence brought warmth, strength and inspiration to many.

Throughout her career, she remained deeply devoted to one school - SMJK Chung Hwa Tenom, dedicating her energy and heart to the lives of countless students. Although she never held an official leadership position, she demonstrated exceptional leadership through her unwavering commitment and active involvement in school activities.

HER DEDICATION NEVER RETIRED

We became colleagues when I was transferred to the same school in 1996. At that time, our seats in the teachers’ room - then just a simple wooden block building - were not far from each other. I still vividly remember where she sat and what always made me admire her was her unwavering dedication to educating young minds, even as she approached retirement age.

I once thought she would leave the profession upon reaching the age of 55, but I was mistaken. She continued her teaching journey with remarkable commitment, even until I left the school in 2009. Although we were not particularly close or fighting the same battles together, we would always exchange a warm “hello” whenever we met in town - a simple gesture that reflected her kindness and humility.

A TEACHER BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

I had the privilege of serving in the same school as her for almost 13 years - as a colleague, her senior assistant and eventually as her principal. Despite holding different positions throughout those years, my relationship with her remained unchanged: friendly, respectful and filled with kindness.

At that time, it was common for many SMJKs to face a shortage of Chinese Language teachers. Nevertheless, Teacher Helen’s willingness and steadfast commitment to the welfare and success of Chinese students, especially in ensuring they obtained a proper grade in their SPM certificate, truly reflected her dedication and sense of responsibility toward her students.

She was not only deeply committed to her teaching profession, but also devoted much of her precious time to her students’ co-curricular activities. Through her guidance and mentorship, she helped shape the lives of many students. True to her spirit and determination, she never failed to make us proud - bringing honour and numerous trophies to the school through the competitions in which her students participated.

A TEACHER WHOSE COMMITMENT NEVER FADED

Till today, after 32 years in the education service and now retired, I can confidently attest to Teacher Helen’s strong will and passionate dedication in placing a small rural school in Tenom, Sabah on the map of Malaysia as one of the strongest Chinese Debate teams in the early 2000s. Few could match her credibility, passion and remarkable ability to transform an ordinary student into a confident achiever.

Even at an age when many would choose to retire and enjoy a quieter life, Teacher Helen continued to devote herself wholeheartedly to this noble profession well into her mid-70s - a truly extraordinary commitment and service.

Among her undeniable contributions were the many accolades she brought to the school through competitions such as Chinese Language Parliamentary Debate, Chinese Poetry Recital, Singing Competition, Basketball Competition and Cultural Performances. Whenever she committed herself to an activity, she gave nothing less than her very best.

During school fundraising programmes, Teacher Helen was always at the forefront, using her excellent communication skills and strong relationship with the community to help ensure every programme achieved its goals and targets.

AN UNMATCHED LEGACY IN EDUCATION

As her superior from 2004 to 2008, she greatly assisted me, particularly in handling Chinese students who were involved in disciplinary problems. Her willingness to guide and counsel those students and eventually transform many of them into well-behaved individuals, deeply touched my heart.

Throughout her years of service, I can hardly recall her ever submitting a medical certificate or taking personal leave. She was always present whenever the school needed her.

With such remarkable and longstanding service, her contributions did not go unnoticed. Even after her retirement, she continued serving under the School Board of Directors. Her dedication was later formally recognised by the Tenom District Education Office when she was honoured with the “Tokoh Guru” award in 2014.

She also received numerous recognitions at both state and national levels for her excellence and lifelong commitment to education. In many ways, her achievements and devotion remain unmatched.

THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING, TEACHER HELEN

On a more personal note, I wish to thank you from the depths of my heart for all the kindness, friendship and care you showed me throughout the years. I must admit that, coming from an English-school background, I was never very proficient in communicating in Chinese. Yet, you patiently endured the difficulties I faced because of this limitation.

As I reflect on those moments, I am deeply touched that you never once looked down on me for lacking such language skills. Instead, you accepted my weaknesses with understanding and kindness. Despite my broken Mandarin, we still managed to communicate well and understand each other - something I will always remember with gratitude and warmth.

I am also deeply grateful to you for teaching Chinese Language to all three of my children while they were under your guidance and mentorship. I will never forget the opportunities and encouragement you gave my daughter in her journey through Leo Club activities, which helped nurture her leadership qualities and confidence.

Thank you once again. Though these words are written only after you have left this world, please know that they are sincerely meant from the bottom of my heart. May God grant you eternal peace and bless your soul with everlasting rest. Rest in peace, Teacher Helen.

Written with love and deepest gratitude,

Lian Fee Choo