Proud moment: Nur Adira was named the February 2025 World Changer Award winner by Senia.
KOTA KINABALU: What began as an unplanned academic path has blossomed into a lifelong mission for Nur Adira Mad Harim, a special education teacher at Keningau Vocational College (KVC).
Her unwavering dedication to students with hearing impairments has earned her the prestigious World Changer Award for February 2025, presented by the Special Education Network & Inclusion Association (Senia).
Thanking her colleague Sirhajwan Idek for nominating her, Nur Adira was recognised for her commitment to inclusive education, not only teaching sign language in the classroom but also championing its use in public events, particularly during musical performances.
Her ability to bridge the gap between the hearing and non- hearing communities has had a lasting impact, ensuring that students with hearing impairments feel included in mainstream society.
A graduate of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris in Perak, Nur Adira’s journey into special education was not initially by choice.
“I originally applied for a Malay literature course but was offered a place in special education instead, so I took it as a challenge,” she said.
Over time, her passion grew, and she became deeply invested in sign language, drawn by its unique ability to foster communication and connection.
“Not everyone can use sign language and that is what makes it so special. It is not just about translating words, it is about expressing emotions, intent and meaning through movement,” she told The Star.
The 32-year-old teacher, who hails from Tawau, said that at KVC, fewer than 60 students are enrolled in the Special Education Integration Programme, divided into two categories, namely students with learning disabilities and students with hearing impairments.
Her teaching approach, she explained, goes beyond textbooks, as she also immerses herself in the material, practising tirelessly before translating speeches or songs into sign language.
For Nur Adira, effective communication is not just about accuracy but also about the energy and emotion conveyed through gestures.
This dedication has led to her active involvement in promoting sign language beyond the classroom.
She has interpreted speeches, translated lyrics into sign language and ensured public events in Keningau are accessible to students with hearing impairments.
Her work has helped normalise sign language in everyday interactions, making the world more inclusive for those who rely on it.
Despite the challenges of memorising hundreds of signs and mastering the intricacies of gesture-based communication, Nur Adira has never wavered.
She credits her fluency in sign language to her students, with whom she practised daily, engaging in conversations that helped her master the art.
“When I was a trainee, I spent hours talking and telling stories to my deaf students. That is how I became fluent. You have to live the language, not just learn it,” she said.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as the Senia World Changer Award recognises individuals who make significant contributions to special education.
Nur Adira’s dedication to empowering the deaf community has positioned her as a role model for educators worldwide.
As she continues her mission, Nur Adira hopes to inspire more educators to embrace sign language and inclusive teaching methods.
For her, the greatest reward is seeing her students thrive, confident in their ability to communicate and connect with the world.
“Sign language is a bridge. It connects people, breaks barriers and gives my students a voice. That is why I do what I do,” she added.
With her passion and commitment, Nur Adira is not just teaching sign language, she is changing lives, one sign at a time.
