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In a candid TikTok confession, Kong Laoshi, a Malaysian internet sensation and Chinese teacher, talks about his unconventional path to success.

When Kong Laoshi thinks back to his time at a Chinese primary school in Petaling Jaya, he recounts the daily ritual of being sent to the principal’s office to do unfinished homework on the floor.

With a workload of 10 to 15 assignments a day, not including proofreading and memorization, young Kong often had to deal with the consequences of his unfinished tasks.

Despite the seemingly harsh discipline, Kong Laoshi expresses his deep gratitude for these experiences.

Converting pressure into progress

He attributes the demanding environment to learning time management and developing the mentality of “doing today’s work today.”

“The pressure became my motivation,” he says, admitting that the corporal punishment he received was a catalyst for his diligence and progress.

With humor and nostalgia, Kong recalls sitting on the office floor with a friend as teachers walked by – a memory that makes him laugh today.

Many thanks to the teachers at SJK. Their discipline has made me the person I am today.

@kong.laosher 3 days before the end of the week as the week is far from over but not so good ##konglaosher #gurumandarin #cikgu #cina #bahasa #kelasonline #kelasmandarin #sjkc ♬ Vlog, chill, calm daily life (1370843) – SUNNY HOOD STUDIO

Bridging Cultures: Kong Laoshi’s Journey to Popularizing Mandarin Teaching in Malaysia

Kong Laoshi has been a Mandarin teacher since 2014 and is popular on social media platforms such as TikTok.

He creates engaging content that often highlights beneficial practices common among students in Chinese schools, promoting a positive learning environment.

It also addresses the differences and misconceptions Malaysians may have regarding Chinese schools and Mandarin, and aims to bridge cultural differences and promote Mandarin learning among Malay-speaking students in Malaysia.

Kong Laoshi also highlights the presence of teachers of different ethnic backgrounds in Malaysian schools, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, Iban and Kadazan.

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