Mastal Arikik are our ‘little teachers.’ The first few Mastal Arikik we had were Malaysian students on the island. They would help with classes on weekends. Today, our pioneer MA are moving on to bigger things, and some of Iskul’s students are taking on the role.
Proactive child who rose above all expectations
Delah joined us at eleven, learning the basics of mathematics, Bahasa Malaysia within three years. She continued learning while working as a housekeeper, and in July 2019, stepped up to teach at Iskul. She also leads a project. This project creates a stream of income for the stateless women by selling hand-woven pandanus mats. It is a collaboration with Yayasan Gamuda.
Top student who is talented and committed
Enidah joined us at twelve, and made steady progress over her first three years as a student. Her consistent performance and tenacity allows her to know manage a class of her own – an impressive skill. Hardworking and resourceful, she teaches with kindness and patience, and is an invaluable part of our community. She leads Kebun Iskul, providing fresh produce for the community.
Idealistic boy who will make big waves
Bilkuin was only ten when Iskul began. Now, he is his family’s sole breadwinner and one of our top performers. Having spent some time in Semporna, he understands the importance of opportunity and financial security. Fluent in Bahasa Malaysia, he has a potential to do good for his family and community. He presently takes the lead on our waste management and water projects.
Young girl who is raising the bar continuously
Shima has only been training as Mastal Arikik since 2021. Yet, she is now teaching level 2 classes. She also serves as our student health coordinator. She has been in charge of giving medical first aid services to the other students and the community since 2022. This is a big feat and really speaks to her passion and commitment.
Iskul runs day to day operations with a dedicated field team that is constantly working towards the best interests of our students
Our ground team consist of a full time teacher, field manager and coordinator, a projects manager, and a headmistress.
Chuah Ee Chia
Co-Founder & Chairperson
Ee Chia’s background in public administration and civil society work laid the foundation of Iskul. This includes experiences with Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia, the Social Inclusion Agenda, Occupy Dataran, Malaysiakini, and the ecumenical movement.
Her Master’s research at Central European University focused on the marginalisation of the Bajau Laut in Semporna. This research inspired her to create Iskul as a community-driven policy initiative. Her skill continues to guide the organisation, especially in grant writing and reporting.
Ee Chia is recognised as one of Wiki Impact’s inaugural 100 Impact Makers. She strives to bridge stateless and underprivileged communities with the resources she can access. Ee Chia also connects them with networks.
She encourages others to stay curious. She advises them to ask questions. She urges them to use their privilege to connect support to those who need it. This should be done one step at a time.
Liew Hui Ling
Co-Founder & Secretary
Hui Ling is an environmental advocate. She believes in creating a world of equal opportunity. In this world, people and nature thrive together.
She has a background in marine science. Her experience spans communications, conservation, and event management. She supports the team by managing Iskul’s communications.
She first connected with Ee Chia while working in Semporna under WWF-Malaysia and has been volunteering with Iskul ever since. She organised Iskul’s five-day strategic planning meeting and conducts annual assessments for the organisation.
She has only spent a few years working with Semporna’s stateless community. Yet, she firmly believes in the power of community empowerment. She hopes to see local youth lead the movement for fairer access to opportunities.
Roziah Jalalid
Co-Founder, Deputy Chairperson & Advisor
Roziah, an Omadal resident and President of Wanita Pulau Omadal (WAPO), plays a central role in Iskul’s community work.
She leads initiatives that empower local women. This is especially true for stateless mothers. Through Pandanus mat weaving, she creates income opportunities. She also provides leadership pathways for young women.
As a fluent Bajau speaker, she serves as our primary connection and translator, offering cultural insight and on-the-ground support. Iskul would not be what it is today without Roziah’s dedication, leadership, and unwavering belief in the community.
Khairul Atim
Co-Founder, Field Coordinator & AJK
Khairul is a resident of Omadal and one of Iskul’s pioneer Mastal Arikik. He conducted the first trial class at just 14. He continued teaching on weekends.
After completing his SPM, he became a Field Coordinator trainee. He drew from his lived experience within both Malaysian and stateless communities.
Since beginning his formal training in 2020, Khairul has taken on key responsibilities. These include managing student meals and organising activities. He also liaises with villagers and external partners. Additionally, he documents Iskul’s work on the ground.
Rahmat Mosa
Project Manager
Rahmat brings experience in teaching and activism with undocumented children, having taught for two years at Sekolah Supplementary Semporna. He has managed Iskul’s community projects for three years.
Since 2021, Rahmat has served as Project Coordinator. He oversees the Water Project and Waste Management Project. He also manages school renovations and creates content for YouTube and social media. Additionally, Rahmat teaches music.
Jefry Musa
Field Manager
Jefry is a teacher, editor, filmmaker, writer, researcher, and activist. He develops Iskul’s basic literacy modules across three levels.
He has transformed Iskul from an informal school into a vibrant community centre. He leads initiatives like the Mini Clinic, Kebun Air, and Water Project. He also leads Pentas Bulan Paluwak, Waste Management System, and Covid-19 relief efforts.
His skills and experience strengthen Iskul’s mission to cultivate young leaders within both stateless and Malaysian communities.
Ayu Othman
Full-Time Teacher
Ayu teaches while managing students’ co-curricular activities and serving as their mentor and counselor. With a strong background in administrative management, she provides students with a well-rounded educational experience.
Lalitha
Communications
Lalitha, a data science graduate, began as Iskul’s communications intern managing the website and newsletters.
She now serves as a board member and volunteer. She brings her experience in social work and policy to support the well being of the school and its students.
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