Taylor’s College recently concluded the RISE Educator Award 2026, recognizing Muhammad Hafizu Aiman as the winner among five shortlisted teachers celebrated for their dedication and impact. The award, which aims to honor outstanding educators, received over 39,000 public votes through its online platform.
Muhammad Hafizu Aiman was awarded RM5,000, while his school was granted RM50,000 in sponsorship to improve its facilities and support a quality learning environment. The four other finalists—Dr. Zul Faizuddin Osman from SK Sungai Rural in Kelantan; Mohamad Safuan Rozak of SK Desa Jaya in Pahang; Veronica Francis from SMK St Bernadette’s Convent in Perak; and Teh Zhen Kiat from SJK(C) Sungai Buloh in Selangor—each received RM1,000 in prize money, with their respective schools awarded RM10,000 to enhance educational resources.
The selection process combined public voting, which accounted for 25 percent of the final decision, with a panel assessment weighted at 75 percent. The judging panel included Fadzliaton Zainudin, deputy director of the Education Ministry’s Educational Resources and Technology Division; Melissa Tanya Gomes, chief executive officer of Edvolution Enterprise; Stefanus Lucas, the 2025 RISE Educator of the Year; and a representative identified as Tan.
Since its launch in 2021, the RISE Educator Award has honored a total of 23 educators nationwide, distributing over RM290,000 in grants and development funds to support educational initiatives across Malaysia. The program continues to highlight the importance of teacher contributions in fostering quality education and improving school environments.