2026 October - THINAI Discussion with Retired Educators at Sitiawan, Perak, Malaysia

Date: 29 October 2026

Venue: Sri Kumuthavalli Restaurant, Sitiawan, Perak

On 29 October 2026, Mr. Manoharan and I visited Sitiawan in the state of Perak, Malaysia, where we met a former teacher-training lecturer (Mr. Mohan), a board of governors of a Tamil School (Mr. Govindhan), a retired school headmaster (Mr. Manaharan) at Kumudavalli Restaurant in Sitiawan town. We introduced and discussed the vision, philosophy and implementation possibilities of the THINAI initiative.

Mr. Manoharan reminded about the previous activity of JOBA's Bionity programme, further explained the new initiative, THINAI online and offline courses on sustainability and highlighted how the initiative seeks to transform our worldview from an anthropocentric (human-centred) perspective to an ecocentric (ecosystem-centred) perspective.

He emphasised that natural resources should not be viewed merely as resources available for human exploitation. Rather, humans are an integral part of the larger ecosystem, sharing the planet with other species. Our responsibility is to recognise this interdependence and learn to live harmoniously with all forms of life.

Another important aspect of the discussion was the Sustainability Master Trainer (SMT) programme. Mr. Manoharan explained how interested participants could develop their own courses on themes covered under the six domains of THINAI, upload and host them on the THINAI digital platform, and subsequently teach these courses to interested learners. This model would also provide opportunities for trainers to generate income by sharing their knowledge and expertise.

The participants showed considerable interest in the concept and appreciated the opportunities offered by THINAI. They welcomed the initiative and expressed their willingness to associate themselves with the programme and contribute to its development.

The meeting was particularly encouraging because it brought together experienced educators who have spent much of their lives in teaching, teacher education and school leadership. Their experience, networks and continued commitment to education could become valuable assets in taking THINAI into schools and communities.

The meeting reinforced our belief that retired educators can continue to play an important role in societal transformation by becoming Sustainability Master Trainers, knowledge facilitators and community change agents through THINAI.