Classrooms are meant to nurture curiosity and critical thinking, but lately, there’s growing concern about whether this is still happening.
With major changes in the education system and shifting student attitudes, many worry about the long-term effects on Malaysia’s future.
Are today’s students less motivated to learn? A teacher’s recent viral post on X (formerly Twitter) sheds light on this troubling trend.
M’sian Teacher Frustrated By Student Copying Exam Questions As The Answers
The teacher shared their frustration about students who appear uninterested in their studies.
In one exam paper, a student didn’t even try to answer the question but instead copied the question itself—complete with a typo, turning “Jelaskan” (Explain) into “Jejaskan. (Damage)”
“Students’ stress is more important. Noted,” the teacher wrote sarcastically, highlighting the perception that current policies prioritise reducing stress over fostering academic growth.
In another post, the teacher revealed that many educators are feeling mentally drained, describing the situation as dire.
This isn’t an isolated issue. Many students now seem to approach education with a “bare minimum” attitude, treating school as just another step to get through.
The removal of key exams like UPSR and PT3, aimed at reducing student stress, has led some to question whether it’s also reduced motivation. Without these milestones, students may feel less urgency to take their studies seriously.
‘Really can’t stand students like this’
Netizens who read the teacher’s post sympathised with the challenges faced by educators but also called out students for their lack of effort.
“Why are kids these days taking things so lightly? They play around too much and act like know-it-alls. Back in our time, we studied so hard, squeezing our brains dry, and still couldn’t get full marks. On top of that, we’d get scolded and made to stand as punishment by teachers. Like she said, those who don’t bother to answer are like empty cans. Really can’t stand students like this.”
