Remarks by Mr Janadas Devan, SIF Chairman, at the Malaysia-Singapore English Volunteer Programme – Closing Ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
His Excellency Vanu Gopala Menon, High Commissioner of the Republic of Singapore in Kuala Lumpur,
Puan Fadzilah binti Fadzil, Undersecretary, Division of Strategic Planning and International Relations, Ministry of Education Malaysia,
Our Singapore International Volunteers,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good Morning. I am happy to be here at the closing of the Malaysia-Singapore English Volunteers Programme (MSEVP) Pilot. This initiative reflects both the spirit of collaboration between our countries and the people-to-people connections.
At the Singapore International Foundation (SIF), our mission since 1991 has been to build enduring friendships between Singaporeans and communities in the region. When people come together, share ideas, and work in partnership, we can create greater good. This pilot is a wonderful testament to that belief.
Over the past month, three Singapore International Volunteers – experienced educators with teaching expertise and cross-cultural skills – worked hand-in-hand with three Malaysian counterpart teachers at SK Taman Sri Muda and SK Subang. Together, they facilitated English learning activities, introduced interactive methods in the classroom, and created new opportunities for students to use English in their daily lives.
Over the past four weeks, we have seen students grow in confidence – more willing to speak up, and more eager to practise English. We have also witnessed the exchange of ideas and approaches between Singaporean and Malaysian teachers.
On behalf of the SIF, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has made this pilot possible. This pilot would not have been possible without the heart and dedication of our volunteers. You have given generously and your dedication truly embodies the spirit of service that lies at the heart of teaching. I would also like to express our deep appreciation to the Malaysian Counterpart Teachers and the management of the schools. Your warmth and openness have made this collaboration possible. You welcomed our volunteers, created a supportive environment for learning.
I am equally grateful to Yayasan Guru Tun Hussein Onn (YGTHO), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore, Ministry of Education Singapore and Ministry of Education Malaysia, whose support have been central to bringing this initiative to life. Last but certainly not least, my sincere appreciation goes to the High Commission of Singapore in Kuala Lumpur for graciously hosting us today.
As we close this pilot, I hope there will be opportunity to look ahead together to refine, expand, and deepen the MSEVP. This will allow even more teachers and students to benefit from this collaboration – and it must be a collaboration, each learning from the other.
This programme is more than just language teaching and learning. It is about educators from Singapore and Malaysia coming together, sharing knowledge and experiences, and working towards the common goal of educating our young. May this pilot be the beginning of many more exchanges and the deepening of bonds between our teachers. Thank you.