During my time at Asrama, several events unfolded that had a lasting impact on the formidable Encik Hussin. Although I didn't have a close relationship with him, I was aware of his age and lifelong bachelorhood.
Some suggested that Encik Hussin's solitary life had contributed to his strictness as our warden. His lack of experience with parenting may have made it challenging for him to fully understand our problems.
Midway through the year, tragedy struck when Encik Hussin's father passed away. He left Asrama abruptly to be with his family in Perak. When I heard this news, it was shocking, and I felt deep sympathy for his loss. The fact that he couldn't be there with his father in his final moments was truly heartbreaking.
His sudden departure brought a noticeable change to the atmosphere in Asrama. Without his authoritative presence, the tension that had been hanging in the air seemed to dissipate.
During his absence, a security officer with an overbearing demeanour took charge and began imposing fines on students indiscriminately, making everyone cautious around him.
When Encik Hussin returned, the atmosphere in Asrama became even more serious. It was clear that his personal struggles had taken a toll on him, and he became stricter in enforcing rules and disciplinary measures.
Encik Hussin spent most of his time alone in his quarters, with occasional interactions with security personnel stationed nearby. His interactions with students were far from friendly and often seemed tense, which was disheartening.
He rarely showed a friendly side, except when joking with a select group of students known as his "pet children." This division among students based on their relationship with him was unsettling.
Encik Hussin's trials continued as his mother passed away. It was difficult to witness him endure successive tragedies. His absence from Asrama during these times was understandable.
With each loss, it was clear that Encik Hussin's solitude was deepening. He remained unmarried and seemed to carry the weight of his personal troubles on his shoulders.
Despite his hardships, Encik Hussin returned to Asrama with his usual "cool" demeanour. He seemed to hide his emotions well, but his strict standards and discipline remained unchanged.
It was apparent that Encik Hussin had categorized students into different groups. Some had a friendly relationship with him and were often the recipients of his friendliness. Others seemed to always be in his disapproval, and my heart went out to them.
I had grown weary of Encik Hussin's mannerisms and decided not to continue my Form 4 year at Asrama. The thought of being under his strict supervision for another year was unbearable.
However, for the time being, I had to endure until the next year. The looming pressure of the PMR examinations already filled me with dread, and I feared that academic life would consume me entirely.
The news of Encik Hussin's upcoming marriage brought relief. I hoped that with a life partner, he might adopt a milder approach to his duties, and his previous conduct had perhaps been influenced by his solitude. After the wedding, Encik Hussin returned to Asrama with his new spouse. I didn't see her, and I respected their privacy.
Life in Asrama continued with its routines. We had to submit revision notes and summaries, and Encik Hussin closely monitored our homework. Cleanliness and hygiene standards were strictly enforced, with penalties for those who didn't comply.
The news we had been waiting for finally arrived. Encik Hussin would no longer be our warden or supervisor in the coming year. This marked his farewell year as he had chosen to pursue a career with FELDA in Perak and focus on his family obligations.
At first, it was hard to believe that he would be leaving Asrama, an institution that had been his life. However, I gradually accepted this fact, though my emotions were mixed.
The farewell ceremony to bid adieu to Encik Hussin was an event filled with complex emotions. I was eager for the changes the future would bring, but I also felt a sense of sorrow at the departure of someone who had left a lasting impact on my life.
During his farewell speech, Encik Hussin seemed more relaxed. Unfortunately, my thoughts wandered during his speech, but when it was time to say goodbye and shake his hand, I was overwhelmed with emotion.
In retrospect, I realized that I hadn't fully understood Encik Hussin's actions and appreciated his dedication to Asrama. I regretted not being able to see the depth of his character and motives.
Later that evening, after the Isyak prayer, Encik Hussin gave a final speech to the male Asrama residents at surau. He offered valuable advice as we prepared for the PMR examinations and apologized for any misunderstandings that may have arisen due to his strict methods.
Although I forgave him, I still had reservations about his approach. Nonetheless, I was grateful for the wisdom he had imparted during his time as our supervisor.
The farewell ceremony at surau was a significant moment, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. Emotions ran high, and memories mixed with sentiments.
When I approached Encik Hussin for our farewell embrace, I felt a rush of emotions. His words, filled with belief in my abilities for the upcoming PMR examinations, touched me deeply. His trust in me was a heavy burden, but it was also comforting.
His departure, which I had longed for, was bittersweet, and I felt a sense of nostalgia. I regretted not fully understanding Encik Hussin's character and the complexity of his motives, leaving me with mixed feelings.
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