Let me elaborate further on Encik Zul, the newly appointed warden of Asrama, who took over the role previously held firmly by Encik Hussin. The change in guardianship at Asrama sparked my curiosity and led me to inevitably compare the two wardens in charge of our discipline.
Would Encik Zul, like his predecessor, govern with an unwavering demeanour, emitting an aura of stern authority that had always been associated with Encik Hussin? Just the echo of Encik Hussin's footsteps used to send shivers down my spine, and I wondered if Encik Zul would evoke a similar visceral response.
I soon discovered that Encik Zul came from Asrama Kuantan, where he had previously served as a warden. This fact provided me with a sense of reassurance, as his prior experience in gurdianing students eased my concerns. Moreover, since Encik Zul was also a family man, I assumed he might have a more compassionate perspective toward students, who were essentially like children of his own.
In contrast to Encik Hussin, who had a vigilant presence, our interactions with Encik Zul were less frequent. This newfound freedom brought a sense of ease that was previously unfamiliar to the residents of Asrama. Gone were the days of constant surveillance, allowing us to breathe more freely.
Encik Zul's demeanour was notably different from Encik Hussin's. He exuded a remarkable sense of calm and collectedness, a stark contrast to Encik Hussin's authoritative aura. Encik Zul did not instill the same level of trepidation in me, at least not to the extent that Encik Hussin did. While I can't speak for my peers, I firmly believed that, in terms of service, Encik Zul had exceeded Encik Hussin in my estimation.
Under Encik Zul's guardian, I felt more at ease and less burdened by the weight of expectations. I wasn't inclined to stir up trouble, so my interactions with Encik Zul were generally free of discord. He showed respect to all students, a gesture that didn't go unnoticed or unappreciated.
I vividly remember a touching moment when Encik Zul entered our classroom during the morning session, carrying a file given to him by Encik Hussin. This file contained valuable insights into each student's behaviour and quirks, meticulously compiled by Encik Hussin himself. The purpose was to help Encik Zul get acquainted with his charges.
It was a touching revelation to see Encik Hussin's deep affection for Asrama and its residents, evident in his carefully documented observations. The realization that Encik Hussin had left a commendable assessment of my character touched me deeply, and I was profoundly grateful for his enduring guardian.
Encik Zul had an uncanny ability to remember students' names with ease, despite his limited interactions with us, except for those in positions of authority or those who actively sought his attention. It was particularly astonishing to experience his recognition, considering my reserved nature. A chance encounter in a corridor marked a turning point when Encik Zul greeted me by name and asked about a recent phone call I had made. His familiarity with my identity, mere days into his tenure, left me astounded and elevated his stature in my eyes.
In contrast to Encik Hussin's strict approach, Encik Zul displayed greater leniency in our interactions, granting us autonomy when appropriate. The time following evening study sessions, which used to have us anxious due to the prospect of compulsory lectures, now offered us respite. Encik Zul didn't intrude during this time unless circumstances required it.
Weekends also saw a more relaxed approach, with Encik Zul refraining from unnecessary interference in our leisure activities. This newfound freedom fostered contentment and allowed us to pursue various interests, as long as they adhered to the norms of adolescent life.
Furthermore, Encik Zul presented himself as more approachable and congenial, engaging in light-hearted banter with students, which was a marked contrast to Encik Hussin's stern demeanour. Our gatherings, presided over by Encik Zul, had an atmosphere of camaraderie, with laughter free from constraints. He avoided arbitrary rules and group punishments, dealing with matters in a composed and fair manner. His equanimity contributed to an overall sense of tranquillity.
Encik Zul's impartiality stood in stark contrast to Encik Hussin's favouritism, where only a select few enjoyed privileged status. It left me pondering the disparities and wondering why Encik Hussin hadn't extended his fairness universally, as Encik Zul did.
Interestingly, Encik Zul not really keen to homework inspections. This deviated from Encik Hussin's method of regularly checking our academic work. While homework inspections seemed integral to a warden's duties, Encik Zul's sporadic implementation left us perplexed. Most notably, he did only once which focused on notebooks related to the "Kemahiran Hidup" subject, a departure from the established norm. These inspections, while initially confusing, ultimately became superfluous, as our notebooks languished on his desk for extended periods, necessitating our request for their return.
Subsequently, Encik Zul discontinued the practice of inspecting our homework, a development I personally welcomed. It relieved the stress that had previously accompanied the task, allowing me to complete assignments with ease. Under Encik Zul's guardiance, my life transitioned to one marked by liberty and serenity, a stark contrast to the anxieties that had characterized the previous year, largely due to Encik Hussin's strict oversight.
As I adjusted to life under Encik Zul's leadership, the differences in our lifestyles became increasingly apparent. His approach represented a significant departure from that of Encik Hussin, a shift I wholeheartedly embraced. Asrama no longer felt constricting; I was free to explore my interests within the boundaries of acceptable conduct.
In an ironic twist, Encik Hussin, who claimed to be the least authoritarian warden, turned out to be just one among a series of wardens who had employed stricter methods. Contemplating the possibility that there had been even more idiosyncratic wardens than Encik Hussin left me bemused.
My apprehensions before Encik Zul's tenure were replaced by gratitude for the positive transformation he had ushered into my Asrama life. The Asrama no longer felt oppressive; I could now pursue my interests and engage in activities within the parameters of acceptable conduct.
Under Encik Zul's wardenship, the nightly routine became more relaxed. The once rigid curfew of 11 pm was subtly relaxed, and Encik Zul rarely patrolled the dormitory after lights out. This newfound flexibility led some students to engage in late-night conversations. When encountered, Encik Zul advised sleep rather than reprimand as was customary under Encik Hussin.
However, my preference for late-night conversation remained mostly dormant, as I had grown accustomed to a different nighttime routine. I would retire to my bed promptly when the lights went out, readily surrendering to sleep, undisturbed by extraneous commotion.
My newfound contentment was palpable, and a profound sense of liberation washed away the memories of two years prior. I realized that I had wasted the initial years of my Asrama life. However, I also recognized that every twist and turn of my journey had a purpose. Accepting this fact was crucial, and I embraced it wholeheartedly. Perhaps Encik Hussin had been a necessary guide, preparing me for the life I now cherished.
Within the confines of Asrama, my social dynamics underwent a noticeable shift. Previously, I had confined myself to a select group of friends, but now, I embraced the prospect of forming new connections. Gone were the days of scepticism and suspicion, replaced by a newfound openness.
In forging these new bonds, I approached them with sincerity and receptivity. I held deep respect for others, and this sentiment was reciprocated. The complexities of Asrama's social environment, though not without challenges, no longer filled me with fear. The spectre of physical intimidation and seniority hierarchies persisted, but I remained resolutely unaffected, my equanimity serving as a steadfast anchor.
I had no inclination to incite discord, as I believed such actions would only invite trouble. I avoided unnecessary drama, maintaining a low profile that brought me peace in my surroundings. My focus was on the present moment, avoiding dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
Life held a profound sense of purpose and fulfilment, regardless of where I was. The mere thought of Asrama and school, where I spent most of my days, brought me unique and indescribable joy. I was overflowing with gratitude for this wonderful opportunity that had come my way, with no desire to seek happiness beyond its boundaries.
My deepest aspiration was to continue experiencing this profound contentment, carrying me through to the end of my Asrama tenure. At the same time, I harboured dreams of leaving Asrama the following year, hoping to secure admission to one of Malaysia's prestigious schools. To achieve this, I was unwavering in my pursuit of academic excellence, aiming to join the ranks of students in MRSM or SBP schools, rather than languishing in this ordinary boarding school - the Asrama.
Indeed, it seemed that this aspiration resonated with many of my fellow Asrama residents. The question that loomed was, what good would outstanding PMR results be if not as a stepping stone to a superior school? Was it wise to continue as an Asrama student when other options were available? I'm eager to hear your thoughts and reflections on this matter.
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