Muhammad Nazmi

Muhammad Nazmi Bin Rosli, affectionately known as "Cikgu Nazmi," is a trailblazing educator whose transformative teaching methods have redefined education in rural Sarawak, Malaysia. In a remote school deep within the Crocker Range, surrounded by dense jungle and logging camps, Nazmi has dedicated his career to bridging the gap between his students and the wider world, using creativity, resilience, and a profound belief in the power of education to ignite change. 

Nazmi’s teaching journey began with a realisation: his students’ limited experiences and rural upbringing created barriers to understanding concepts rooted in urban realities. Recognising this, he pioneered an innovative teaching model called "The Danger-Room," a simulated classroom environment inspired by Marvel’s X-Men comics. This approach transformed his classroom into immersive experiences – train stations, aeroplane cabins, pet shops, and even baby wards – introducing students to new perspectives while seamlessly integrating academic lessons with real-world values. This contextual learning improved academic outcomes and broadened his students’ horizons, enabling them to see a future far beyond their remote surroundings. 

A striking example of his impact came during an English lesson about adjectives when Nazmi turned the classroom into a baby ward, not only engaging students but also inspiring a young girl to convince her mother to deliver her baby in a well-equipped hospital instead of the village, showcasing how education can ripple out to affect families and communities. 

Nazmi’s passion beyond the classroom saw him found The Filpen-Club, short for "Filem Pendek" (short films), to teach students filmmaking while fostering entrepreneurship, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. The club has produced over 50 short films, addressing social issues like anti-bullying and corruption, winning national and international awards. Through the club’s “filmpreneurship” model, students raised funds for school improvements and community needs, demonstrating creativity and social responsibility can go hand in hand. 

Facing significant challenges from poor infrastructure, frequent blackouts, and economic hardships in the community, Nazmi consistently turned obstacles into opportunities. He invented KATO, a paddy-seeding tool that reduced farming time and brought students back to school. During the pandemic, he launched Malaysia’s first Homework Delivery System, personally delivering materials to students across 12 villages. These initiatives earned him national recognition, including the Star Golden Heart Award and RISE Educator Award. 

Nazmi’s contributions to the teaching profession are equally noteworthy. His innovative methodologies have gone viral on social media, inspiring educators across Malaysia and beyond. He frequently conducts workshops, collaborates with the Ministry of Education on curriculum development, and advocates for teacher welfare through his leadership roles. 

Committed to global citizenship and sustainability, Nazmi integrates environmental education into lessons, using recycled materials to teach conservation and establishing a pineapple garden to promote sustainable agriculture. His creative approach ensures students learn about climate change and develop a deep connection to their environment. 

For Muhammad Nazmi Bin Rosli, teaching is not just a career but a mission to transform lives. Through unwavering dedication he has empowered his students to dream beyond their circumstances, inspired educators to innovate, and demonstrated the profound impact one teacher can make in shaping a brighter future for generations to come.