The well-being of educators, the bedrock of the education system, is paramount. Mental health is no longer an option but a necessity that must be prioritised to ensure teachers are supported, both mentally and emotionally.
This was emphasised by CureHeart founder Hajah Norajileen Uminatul Hafizan binti Haji Alimas, in her opening remarks at the ‘Nurturing Hearts: Supporting Educators’ Well-Being’ event held at Laksamana College of Business in conjunction with World Mental Health Day.
Hajah Norajileen stressed that just as we focus on students’ academic achievements, it is equally crucial to address mental health in the workplace, particularly within educational institutions.
“Our educators bear the immense responsibility of shaping the next generation,” she said, “and their well-being must be prioritised to ensure they can continue to serve with excellence – not just as teachers, but also as mentors and role models for students and fellow educators.” She highlighted that teachers are not merely instructors; they are also sources of inspiration, role models and motivators who help students realise their full potential.
Educators play a pivotal role in shaping not only academic excellence but also instilling moral values and ethics in the younger generation, who will one day lead the nation.
In Brunei Darussalam, she noted, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam consistently prioritises the well-being of the people, including educators who form the backbone of the nation’s development.
His Majesty’s concern and care for the mental well-being of teachers demonstrates that mental health is not only vital for individual growth but also for the prosperity of the national education system as a whole.
Hajah Norajileen pointed out that teachers are entrusted with the responsibility of educating future generations in a world that is evolving rapidly.
“Today’s generation faces new challenges – from digital transformation to complex social and emotional dynamics – and the role of educators in guiding them has never been more critical.
In fulfilling this duty, teachers often carry heavy emotional and mental burdens, which we must recognise and address.”
She added, “Educators who are mentally and emotionally healthy are more capable of inspiring, guiding and shaping the younger generation to be morally upright and competitive in an increasingly challenging world. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that teachers receive the necessary emotional and mental support to stay motivated in carrying out their vital roles.”
The event’s theme – nurturing love and compassion – resonates deeply with Islamic principles.
In Islam, the heart (qalb) is seen as the centre of understanding, sincerity and compassion. A spiritually and emotionally healthy heart is essential to fulfilling one’s purpose. Likewise, in education, a teacher whose heart is nurtured and supported can inspire not only academic success but also the holistic development of their students.
“Under the leadership of His Majesty, Brunei’s commitment to education continues to grow. However, alongside this growth, we must ensure that educators are not overwhelmed by the increasing demands of their profession. Like anyone else, teachers need time to rest, reflect and receive support. Mental health, emotional resilience and professional development are intertwined and we must create an environment where teachers can thrive.
“Through discussions and exchanges, we seek to find meaningful ways to provide educators with the resources, emotional support and work-life balance they need. By sharing insights from experts, best practices and initiatives that align with noble values, Islamic principles and global trends in educator well-being, we can create a brighter future for both our teachers and students,” said Hajah Norajileen. – Rokiah Mahmud
