Kuala Lampur, May 16 -- Educationist Datuk Rasammah Bhupalan passed away just days before we mark Teachers' Day on May 16. The timing feels significant, almost poetic. After all, she wasn't just a teacher. She was an icon of what it means to educate, lead and fight for others.

As we remember her life, we're also reminded of the teachers around us today - the quiet heroes in classrooms, canteens and school corridors who continue to shape young minds, often with little fanfare.

Education has always been close to my heart. I had my early education in Segamat, where teachers were more than just educators. They were mentors, role models and sometimes even second parents.

I did not come from a rich family, living far from the nearest tuition...