Iskul

Delah, the 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 is also leads a project that creates a stream of income for the stateless women – selling hand-woven pandanus mats, a collaboration with Yayasan Gamuda.

Enidah, a 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.

Bilkuin, the idealistic boy who will make waves

Bilkuin was only ten when Iskul began – he is now 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 currently takes the lead on our waste management and water projects.

Shima, the young girl who is raising the bar

Shima has only been training as Mastal Arikik since 2021,  but she is currently teaching level 2 classes, and 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.

Chuah Ee Chia

Co-Founder & Chairperson

Ee Chia’s background in public administration and civil society work — including Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia, the Social Inclusion Agenda, Occupy Dataran, Malaysiakini, and the ecumenical movement — shaped the foundation of Iskul.

Her Master’s research at Central European University focused on the marginalisation of the Bajau Laut in Semporna, inspiring her to create Iskul as a community-driven policy initiative. Her expertise continues to guide the organisation, especially in grant writing and reporting.

Recognised as one of Wiki Impact’s inaugural 100 Impact Makers, Ee Chia strives to bridge stateless and underprivileged communities with the resources and networks she can access. She encourages others to stay curious, ask questions, and use their privilege to connect support to those who need it — one step at a time.

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—especially stateless mothers—through Pandanus mat weaving, creating income opportunities and leadership pathways for young women.

As a fluent Bajau speaker, she serves as our primary liaison 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.

Liew Hui Ling

Co-Founder & Secretary

Hui Ling is an environmental advocate who believes in creating a world of equal opportunity where people and nature thrive together. With a background in marine science and experience in 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.

Although she has only spent a few years working with Semporna’s stateless community, she firmly believes in the power of community empowerment and hopes to see local youth lead the movement for fairer access to opportunities.

Khairul Atim

Co-Founder, Field Coordinator & AJK

Khairul, a resident of Omadal and one of Iskul’s pioneer Mastal Arikik, conducted the first trial class at just 14 and continued teaching on weekends. After completing his SPM, he stepped up as a Field Coordinator trainee, drawing from his lived experience within both Malaysian and stateless communities.

Since beginning his formal training in 2020, Khairul has taken on key responsibilities including managing student meals, organising activities, liaising with villagers and external partners, and documenting 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 Alternative Semporna. He has managed Iskul’s community projects for three years.

Since 2021, Rahmat has served as Project Coordinator, overseeing the Water Project, Waste Management Project, school renovations, content creation for YouTube and social media, and teaching 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, leading initiatives such as the Mini Clinic, Kebun Air, Water Project, 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, bringing her experience in social work and policy to support the wellbeing of the school and its students.