Lee Khim Seng: Teachers' Roles Even More Crucial in the AI Era – Advancing Highly Efficient and Warm Classrooms

(Miri, 12th) Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Khim Seng stated that in an era of rapid artificial intelligence (AI) development, the role of teachers has become even more important. Teachers are not only transmitters of knowledge, but also inspirers of students' learning abilities, guides for ways of thinking, and cultivators of innovation.

He made these remarks yesterday afternoon while attending the closing ceremony of the "Making Chinese Classes More Efficient: AI Application and Differentiated Teaching" teachers' workshop organized by the Miri & Limbang Chinese Schools Teachers’ Association at the Bay Resort Hotel.

He pointed out that artificial intelligence is no longer the future, but a happening reality that is rapidly changing society, the economy, and working models, and is deeply influencing the direction of educational development. In the future, students will face a highly digitalized, automated, and intelligent world. Therefore, every teaching innovation implemented by teachers today is shaping the future competitiveness of the country's talent.

He said that although this workshop lasted only one day, the gains were not just operational skills with AI tools; more importantly, it prompted educators to reflect more deeply on future classrooms, educational development, and talent cultivation.

Lee Khim Seng stated that "AI application" and "differentiated teaching" are important directions for future education. AI helps improve lesson planning efficiency, enrich teaching resources, and optimize classroom design, allowing teachers to invest more time in understanding and guiding students; while differentiated teaching emphasizes teaching according to students' abilities, so each student can find the learning style that best suits them.

He pointed out that this aligns with Sarawak’s current drive for digital transformation, green economy, and high-tech industry development directions, including fields such as artificial intelligence, automation systems, smart transportation, and hydrogen energy technology. In the future, society will need talents with innovative abilities, adaptability, and problem-solving skills, all of which must start in the classroom.

He emphasized that although technology can enhance classroom efficiency, the "warmth" of education always comes from the teachers themselves. AI cannot replace the care, value guidance, and professional judgment that teachers provide students. The core of education lies in inspiring student interest, building confidence, and accompanying their growth.

He hopes teachers can bring what they have learned back to their schools, starting from designing more personalized assignments, creating more interactive classroom activities, and providing more precise learning feedback, thereby gradually advancing teaching reform.

He stressed that educational progress does not happen overnight; it relies on teachers’ perseverance and innovation accumulated day by day.

In addition, he mentioned the recent tragic incident where two trainee teachers from Sarawak lost their lives during water training activities, expressing his deep sorrow.

He called on the Ministry of Education to take this incident seriously, to complete a thorough and transparent investigation as soon as possible, clarify responsibilities, and provide an explanation to the families and society.

He said that the relevant authorities should also reassess the necessity of high-risk training activities. If they are to continue, stricter risk assessment processes, safety protocols, and emergency response mechanisms must be established to prevent similar tragedies from occurring again.

He emphasized that teacher training should not only focus on knowledge and skill development, but should also prioritize safety to ensure that future teachers grow within a professional and secure system.

He expressed gratitude to the organizing units—the Miri & Limbang Chinese Schools Teachers’ Association for their thoughtful arrangements, and to keynote speaker Teacher Lian Chao Sheng for his outstanding sharing. He also paid high tribute to all Chinese language teachers who have long remained steadfast in their positions.

He pointed out that it is precisely the persistence and dedication of teachers that allows Chinese education to continuously innovate, keep pace with the times, and keep nurturing talent for society amidst the development of the times.