In Malaysia today, the classroom doesn’t end when the bell rings. It continues on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, where students spend much of their time. With 25.1 million active social media users in 2025, about 70% of the population, Malaysia has one of the highest social media penetration rates in the world[1].
TikTok in particular has exploded in Malaysia, reaching 18.5 million users in 2025 and capturing Gen Z’s attention more than any other app[2]. What began as a lip-syncing and dance platform has evolved into a global learning space where short, engaging videos teach everything from algebra to emotional resilience.
For teachers, this is both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge: competing with endless streams of content. The opportunity: harnessing those same tools to capture attention and spark curiosity.
And the stakes are high. Research shows that 85% of Malaysian students spend three or more hours a day on social media[3]. That’s more time than most spend on homework or even face-to-face interaction. If educators can meet students where they are, on their feeds and For You pages, they can extend their influence beyond school gates and into the daily lives of millions.
The divide between the physical and digital is disappearing. Today’s teachers are not just standing at whiteboards; they’re filming tutorials, answering questions in comments, and turning viral trends into teachable moments.
They are digital mentors, content creators, and role models rolled into one. Their influence now stretches beyond the classroom walls, shaping not just smarter students, but more confident, empathetic, and connected young Malaysians.
This Teachers’ Day, we spotlight eight extraordinary Malaysian educators who have embraced the digital age and carved out unique spaces on TikTok and YouTube.
#1: Sir Fathi – The Add Maths Teacher Who Makes Equations Fun
For generations of students, Additional Mathematics has carried a reputation for breaking confidence. But for Fathi Hussein, better known as Sir Fathi or @mathsanova, it’s the challenge he has dedicated his life to flipping on its head. With 708,000 followers and 13.7 million likes, he has become an unlikely internet sensation by doing the impossible: making Add Maths not only less intimidating, but genuinely enjoyable.
Sir Fathi’s path to teaching wasn’t straightforward. A graduate in accountancy, he first worked as an accountant in Subang Jaya before deciding to pursue education full-time. He began teaching at Maths Clinic, a physical tuition centre, before expanding his reach through its digital arm, MCPlus, an online platform designed to be accessible to students nationwide[4].
On TikTok, that charisma translates into lessons where he solves problems in seconds and lightens the mood with humour. One viral video on Form 5 matrices garnered hundreds of thousands of likes, with students commenting that, for the first time, the concept finally made sense. Dressed in colourful batik shirts, he looks less like a stern tutor and more like an older brother sharing shortcuts.
Most recently, Sir Fathi’s impact was recognised when he won the Digital Creator (Motivation & Education) Award at the Gempak Most Wanted Awards 2024. The honour cemented his status as one of Malaysia’s most influential educators, not just in classrooms but across the digital space[5].
Seek knowledge for a brighter future. Even as we grow old, knowledge will always remain important and useful. – Sir Fathi[5]
In interviews, he has spoken candidly about hearing some young people dismiss education as unnecessary, something he strongly pushes back against. For him, the value of education lies not just in passing exams but in opening doors to opportunity and confidence.
#2: Sir Asai – The English Teacher Bringing “Positive Vibes”
For students in Kelantan, English class comes alive with Ahmad Shahrul Azhan, or Sir Asai. Known on TikTok as @sir_asai, he has built a following of over 1.2 million with his mix of humour, grammar hacks, and interactive learning. His catchphrase, “School is FUN! Learn, Live & Enjoy” isn’t just a motto but the energy he brings into every lesson.
A veteran with more than 20 years of teaching, he realised that chalk-and-talk lectures weren’t engaging students anymore.
Forget boring lectures and dusty textbooks. If we want students to care, we must meet them where they are, and for this generation, that means social media. – Sir Asai[6]
His solution was to flip his classroom into a stage where students are co-stars. His most viral videos feature pupils attempting to pronounce tricky English words, an exercise that entertains millions online while unconsciously teaching proper pronunciation. One of these clips soared to 44 million views and 3 million likes, cementing his reputation as a digital-age educator.
Behind the humour lies serious pedagogy. Sir Asai’s mission is to boost students’ confidence in using English, particularly in rural communities where exposure is limited. By encouraging participation, embracing mistakes, and creating a safe space to laugh while learning, he makes English less intimidating and far more engaging.
In 2023, his innovative approach earned him the ‘Best of Education Award’ at the TikTok Awards Malaysia and a spot as a Top 5 finalist for the Malaysia Teacher Prize. For his students, though, the true reward is the joy and “positive vibes” he injects into every class. Sir Asai is proof that learning a language can be both fun and transformative[6].
#3: Ms. Qiwiie – Turning Classroom Lessons Into Life Lessons
Ting Shi Qi, better known as Ms. Qiwiie, has redefined what it means to be an educator in the age of TikTok. While most teachers focus on exams and syllabuses, she stepped into social media to tackle onfidence, and values. Her TikTok account, @msqiwiie, has grown into a powerhouse with more than 2.6 million followers and over 70 million likes, making her one of Malaysia’s most recognisable “edu-influencers.”
What makes her stand out is her commitment to “honest conversations.” In a heartfelt clip addressing the “emotional damage” of teaching when students are disengaged, she opened up about how much care goes into each lesson. That authentic moment resonated deeply, earning over three million likes on TikTok[7].
In another viral post with millions of likes, she encouraged practising positive self-talk, turning a simple lesson into an online pep talk for students nationwide. The clip earned her praise from viewers around the world for her warmth and relatability[8].
The crazy thing about children and students is that they may be angry with you one day, but they’ve forgiven you the next. I have never dreaded going to work in my life. I love seeing my kids. – Miss Qiwiie[9]
Beyond TikTok, Qiwiie has found ways to fuel meaningful connections in the real world. She co-founded But Honestly, a card game designed to spark vulnerable, authentic conversations, born from her faith-based desire to build community beyond the screen[9].
Her influence also extends to YouTube, where she has amassed more than 3.07 million subscribers with her longer-form content[10].
Eventually, she left her private school role to focus on content full-time. More recently, she began volunteering as a teacher at a refugee school in Malaysia, continuing to prove that education is more than grades; it’s about resilience, empathy, and the lessons students carry into life.
#4: Mr Wong – Making Accounting Clear and Accessible
Accounting rarely excites students, but Mr Wong has found a way to make it less intimidating. On TikTok, where he posts as @mrwong_akaun, he has built a small but loyal following of about 15,000 students preparing for SPM Prinsip Perakaunan. He also runs a YouTube channel, @mrwong_akaun, where he uploads longer, step-by-step lessons for learners who need extra practice[11].
His videos are straightforward and sincere. With just a pen, paper, and clear narration, he walks through common accounting questions, explains typical mistakes in balance sheets, and demonstrates how to structure revisions effectively. While others chase flashy trends, his focus is on clarity. For nervous SPM students, his bite-sized tutorials are both reassuring and practical.
For those who need a deeper dive, he also shares longer lessons on YouTube. Some videos stretch well beyond an hour, covering entire accounting topics in detail, from full trial balance walkthroughs to comprehensive revision papers. These extended sessions give students the chance to learn at their own pace, almost as if they’re sitting in a real class[11].
What sets him apart is his willingness to share resources freely. Beyond TikTok and YouTube, he offers revision notes through Telegram groups, making sure access to help isn’t limited by cost. His mission is not just to teach, but to guide students through exam prep with patience and encouragement.
Mr Wong may not be a viral sensation, but for those grappling with debit and credit, his quiet persistence makes a real difference. Many students share how they once failed Accounting with scores as low as 33%, only to later improve to an A- under his guidance. These success stories fill his comments section and encourage others who might feel like giving up.
#5: Iqbal Ahyar – Making Science “Weirdly Funny”
Science can be overwhelming, full of dense notes and diagrams. But Iqbal Ahyar, or @iqbalahyar, has found a way to make it fun. With 1.1 million followers and his catchphrase “Ate kome!”, the MCPlus tutor has made biology both quirky and memorable.
After more than a decade in classrooms and tuition centres, Iqbal realised that traditional teaching tools weren’t always enough. So he got creative: armed with a stylus, an iPad, and the Procreate app, he began drawing live while teaching everything from the cell’s inner workings to the respiratory system. His colourful doodles and animations breathe life into complex concepts, making them easier to digest for Science and Biology students.
In one video, he raised awareness about sunbears after one was spotted in Kuala Terengganu. Using sketches and clear narration, he highlighted features like their sharp claws and reminded viewers to respect wildlife and keep a safe distance. The clip struck a chord, earning more than 197,000 likes and thousands of comments from Malaysians who appreciated the timely reminder about human–animal encounters.
But his impact goes deeper. Iqbal often recounts how he once scored 11/100 in Add Maths, crediting a teacher’s tough love for pushing him forward. Now he does the same for his students, reminding them that learning is about effort and perseverance, not perfection[12].
He likens social media to a buffet, while much of the content may not nourish, educational videos are the vegetables we should make time for. His message? For true impact, teachers must just start “without waiting for perfection.”
Educational content would be the vegetable of the buffet, where it is essential for the young generation to consume as the activity of scrolling on social media is already a hobby to many. – Iqbal Ahyar[12]
#6: Abdul Muiez Ruslee – The Counsellor Guiding Students’ Futures
Not every student leaves school knowing what comes next. That’s where Abdul Muiez Ruslee steps in. By day, he’s a seasoned school counsellor at SMK Sungai Besar; online, he’s @abdulmuiezruslee, a trusted guide for academic and career advice on TikTok, with 46,000 followers and 1.6 million likes[13].
One video might calmly explain how the national university placement system (UPU) works. Another might outline scholarship interview tips or compare a matriculation college with Form 6. With his approachable, teacher-next-door style, Cikgu Muiez simplifies complicated processes into clear, encouraging advice.
He often uses analogies (and sometimes trending sounds) to keep viewers hooked—like comparing career choices to picking a durian at the market: you need the right fit for your own taste. Each clip feels like a mini counselling session, open to anyone who needs direction.
Beyond TikTok, he has hosted 18 episodes on DidikTV KPM covering career pathways and post-SPM options, but it’s on social media where his presence feels most personal. Students regularly thank him in the comments for easing their worries and making sense of daunting systems[13].
Between 2021 and 2022, I hosted 18 episodes on DidikTV KPM, covering topics such as career pathways and options after SPM. Alhamdulillah, the response from viewers was very encouraging. – Cikgu Mueiz[13]
His TikTok bio, “Guru Halatuju” (“teacher of pathways”), says it all. In a noisy digital world, his steady, practical advice helps young Malaysians move forward with confidence.
#7: Cikgu Zack – The “Garang” Teacher Making BM Trend
Bahasa Melayu may not seem like the stuff of viral content, but Saliza Ibrahim, better known as Cikgu Zack or @zackkirana27, has turned it into just that. With her “Cikgu BM Garang” persona, she has attracted 378,000 followers and more than 5.5 million likes.
Her big breakthrough came in 2022 with a BM poll video that unexpectedly hit 5.9 million views. Zack quizzed viewers on whether to use “dipermudah” or “dipermudahkan,” reacting with mock sternness when they chose the wrong one. The comments were full of Malaysians admitting, “baru tahu selama ni salah,” while thanking her for the clarity[14].
Another viral hit came during Ramadan when she corrected the way Malaysians often mispronounce food names at the bazaar, like “kuey tiaw” and “satay.” The clip, which pulled 4.3 million views, struck a chord for being both funny and educational[15].
Beyond TikTok, she also tutors with MCPlus, one of Malaysia’s largest online tuition platforms, where she teaches structured BM lessons aligned with the SPM syllabus. Online, however, her playful, no-nonsense style makes BM approachable in a way students actually enjoy.
In a social media landscape dominated by English, Cikgu Zack’s success proves that Bahasa Melayu can be just as viral and just as fun.
#8: Nura Ezzatie – Bringing Korean Into Malaysian Classrooms
In Malaysia, it’s common to hear Malay and English in the classroom. But in Nura Ezzatie’s lessons, another language joins the mix: Korean. In 2022, she began teaching Korean at a public secondary school, making her one of the few educators introducing the language in formal settings.
Her love for Korean music started with K-pop. At 18, determined to understand her favourite idols without subtitles, she taught herself the language through YouTube, online resources, and conversations with Korean friends. Today, she has passed Level 5 of the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK), just one step below the highest tier[16].
People often ask if I studied in Korea. But I learned it here (Malaysia), little by little, because I loved it. – Nura Ezzatie[17]
On TikTok, @nuraezzatie, she shares her passion with over 190,000 followers and 6 million likes. Her videos include classroom moments, like a viral clip of her Form 1 student giving a speech in Korean, and short lessons where she teaches Malaysians simple greetings while introducing Korean friends to Malay expressions.
Teacher Nura shows students that learning something new builds confidence, whether in language, culture, or life itself.
A New Face of Teaching
From Add Maths shortcuts to Korean phrases, from counselling advice to BM grammar hacks, these eight teachers are proving that education doesn’t stop at the classroom door. With creativity, humour, and authenticity, they’re reshaping what it means to be a Malaysian teacher in the digital age.
They’re not just teaching subjects; they’re teaching resilience, confidence, and curiosity – one TikTok, one YouTube video, and one student at a time.
Explore Our Sources:
- Simon. K. (2025). Digital 2025: Malaysia. Link.
- Terrence. N. (2025). Social Media Landscape Malaysia: Key Statistics & Platforms You Need to Know. Link.
- Nurul et al. (2023). Social Media Usage: The Impact on Malaysian Student Life. Link.
- T. K. Letchumy. (2020). How This Local Teacher Uses Social Media To Teach And Make Add Maths Fun For His Students. Link.
- Roshlawaty. M. R. (2025). Nasihat Sir Fathi…’Sampai kita tua pun, ilmu tetap penting’. Link.
- Wala. A. M. (2024). ‘Forget boring lectures and dusty textbooks’ – Teacher influencer Sir Asai. Link.
- Tiktok. Msqiwiee. Link.
- Tiktok. Msqiwiee. Link.
- Michelle. C. (2023). “When I truly love God, loving people and making an impact is second nature”: Malaysian teacher and influencer qiwiie. Link.
- Youtube. Ms Qiwiie. Link.
- Youtube. Mr Wong AKAUN. Link.
- Wala. A. M. (2024). Teacher influencer Iqbal Ahyar uses creativity to transform learning experience for students. Link.
- Roshlawaty. M. R. (2025). Cikgu Abdul Muiez nekad beri yang terbaik selagi diri bergelar pendidik. Link.
- Tiktok. zackkirana2. Link.
- Tiktok. zackkirana2. Link.
- Alicia. C. (2023). This K-Pop Fan Taught Herself To Read and Write in Korean And Now Teaches Korean In School. Link.
- L. Jung-youn. (2024). Malaysian TikToker bridges Korean culture, language for global audiences. The Korea Herald. Link.
