Meet our leadership team

It’s our pleasure to welcome you to Straits International School Penang.

We aim to give all students an amazing education and develop skills in the classroom and beyond. Day to day, our passionate teachers and staff help create a happy, safe and affirming school culture in which students feel that they can stretch their wings and grow beyond their wildest dreams.

At Straits International School Penang, everyone is growing, together to be the best version of themselves.

We can’t wait to show you around so that you can get involved with our dynamic and innovative approach to school life.

Ms Hannah Warlow is from the UK and is a graduate of University of Sunderland, Manchester Metropolitan University and Cambridge University. She began her career working in an international school in Thailand. Her passion for teaching comes from seeing children develop both academically and socially. Ms Hannah loves the lifestyle of South East Asia, particularly in Penang. She enjoys live theatre and spending time walking and exploring different environments

From Essex, UK, Mr Jack graduated from the University of Worcester and Buckingham University. He gained teaching experience in both the independent and state sector in England. Teaching all year levels National Curriculum subjects, with a particular passion for Physical Education. Mr Jack knows it is essential to provide stimulating, challenging and creative activities which allow children to develop skills, knowledge and understanding.

Originally from Cornwall, UK, Ms Jemma has been teaching English and Drama in international schools in Hong Kong since 2007. She graduated from the University of Birmingham and University of Cambridge. She believes that seeing young people discover their passions and grow in confidence is the best part of teaching. She enjoys learning new languages, playing the keyboard, and reading a good book in her spare time.

Ms Gosia was raised in Poland. She graduated from Nicolas Copernicus University and University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom. Having so many University degrees as a basis, she has refined her skills in phonics and learning to read and write English to make her an expert! She has also gained experience working with children across both primary and secondary, so Ms Gosia aims to give children learning opportunities and experiences that engage, motivate and prepare them for future life. During her free time, she enjoys reading, exploring languages and travelling.

From South Wales, UK, Mr Gwyn started teaching in 1988, and is a graduate of Kingston Polytechnic. Over the years, he has taught in England, Wales, Kuwait, Thailand and Romania. He enjoys a wide variety of music and plays a number of instruments, to less than expert level. He loves most sports, but particularly rugby, football and golf, and also enjoys exploring the great outdoors. Mr Gwyn loves the idea that there is always something new to learn every day, whether you are a student, or a teacher.

Dr Nellie Wong is from the land of the Hornbills (Sarawak). She came to Penang to further her tertiary education at Universiti Sains Malaysia and she holds a PhD. in Science. Dr Nellie has taught Science and Biology for 10 years to children from ages 10-17 as well as A Levels to college students. She is very enthusiastic and passionate about teaching.

Ms Gowri is from the Pearl of the Orient, Penang. She graduated as a teacher from University Tun Abdul Razak (UNITAR). She has been teaching for more than 10 years in both government and private schools and also has experience lecturing in one of the colleges in Penang for 2 years. She chose to be a teacher to stay young as being with students all day helps teachers of any age to stay connected to current events and trends. Students are creative and energetic creatures that will keep us on our toes. Her dream is to develop her students in a holistic manner through education.

Mrs Sathia graduated as a language teacher and started her career in an international school in Penang. She has taught for more than 10 years in both government and international schools’ settings as Bahasa Melayu and ESL teacher. She has taught all key stages in primary and secondary schools. Mrs Sathia also holds a Master Degree in Linguistics and English Language Studies from University Sains Malaysia, Penang with her final dissertation focusing on gender roles and feminism in Asian countries. During her spare time, she enjoys leisure reading and her favourite authors are Paula Coelho, Mitch Albom and feminist writers such as Arundhati Roy, Manju Kapur, Lisa See and Khaled Hosseini. She is currently pursuing her Ed.D (Doctor of Education) in USM.

Ms Serene graduated from SEGi College Penang. She has more than ten years of experience teaching children ages from 3-6. Even at a young age, she had already started teaching young children; she volunteered in serving in her church’s children ministry at the age of 13. She has a passion for teaching young children and she believes that every child is different in their own way.

Mrs Nurin Najmina Binti Fauzi graduated from Universiti Selangor (UNISEL) and has been teaching EAL for more than 10 years across primary and secondary schools and is very passionate and dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential. She hopes to provide students with the abilities to master the necessary skills in English. Mrs Nurin is also a big fan of art and enjoys watching movies, listening to music and reading during her free time. Becoming an inspiring educator has been her dream since she was a child.

Ms Pang Sook Yee graduated from Cheng-Chi University, Taiwan. She is a holder of the Cambridge International Diploma for Teaching and Learning (CIDTL). She has been teaching in Straits International School since it opened. She has also been a Chinese Editor in EPH Publishing (M) Sdn. Bhd. She believes students should be independent, self-driven and must not give up easily in their learning, In her spare time, she likes to travel and sample good food.

Mr Vinod is a Sports Science graduate. He has been teaching international schools for more than 10 years now. He has previously worked as a fitness instructor for more than 10 years. After a while he decided that he wanted to use his experience and knowledge to educate young people and decided to pursue a career in teaching. Teaching is his passion now especially PE and sports. He loves to work out in the gym and play football/ futsal in his spare time.

Born in London, UK but spent most of his youth growing up in leafy Somerset, Mr Jackson, has been teaching since 2013 having graduated from the University of Worcester and gaining a PGCE from Birmingham City University.

He has taught English Language and Literature, Drama and Media Studies throughout his career, having taught in Birmingham, London, Somerset and most recently, Bangkok, Thailand. He has also had several middle leadership roles in both academic and pastoral positions.

His favourite part of teaching is seeing the students grow and learning to love literature. Outside of school he has a passion for walking, reading and the theatre.

Before joining Straits, Mr Brathwaite was fortunate enough to teach in state and private education in the UK, as well as at an International School in Seychelles. His passion for sport helps him to deliver lessons that ensures all students can try to find enjoyment from physical activity.

Mr B has a Bachelor’s of Art’s in Primary Education, and is excited to bring his passion for extra-curricular activities where he has over 10 years of experience, coaching exciting and fun-filled sports clubs.

Outside of school, he lives an active life playing a multitude of sports and is looking forward to seeing what adventures he and his young family can find in Penang.

Mr Alex Dower is from the UK and a graduate of the University of Plymouth and the University of the West of England. Since qualifying a teacher, he has worked in both Wales and England.

Mr Alex is passionate about Geography and getting the very best out of his students, helping to develop them into global citizens. Before becoming a teacher, Mr Alex worked in the sailing industry, giving him the opportunity to work all around the world.

He has a great love of the outdoors and enjoys running, hiking, sailing, most types of sports, music and exploring the world around him.

Mr John comes from Perlis, the smallest state of Malaysia. He is a graduate of University of Technology Malaysia and had been teaching PMR Science for 3 years in a public school in Johor Bahru. He also studied Indonesian language in Malang and Jogjakarta, Indonesia. Mr. John also served in a church in Johor Bahru as a pastoral team leader for more than a year. After moving to Penang in 2013, he taught Cambridge Primary Science and IGCSE Chemistry in an international school for around 2 years before joining SIS.

He loves jogging and hiking, and anything related to nature.

A huge and tall building needs a deep and strong foundation; likewise we human beings need the right world view & character as a strong and firm foundation to apply the knowledge and skills in the society. He believes education is the tool to shape our future generation for noble purposes. Therefore, he loves teaching and dedicates himself in education.

Ms Cassandra, an experienced Drama teacher from England, holds a degree in Contemporary Theatre and Performance from the University of Central Lancashire. With over a decade of teaching experience, she’s a firm believer in the positive impact of Drama education, nurturing self-esteem, resilience, respect, and confidence. Her expertise spans both primary and secondary levels.

Ms Cassandra’s journey includes training at prestigious drama schools in Manchester and performing as a children’s entertainer on world-renowned cruise ships. She’s passionate about empowering young minds through creativity, and her interests include travel, animals, the ocean, and connecting with new people.

Ms Kasturi graduated from Roehampton University with a Degree in Education with special interest in literature. She has been teaching for the past twelve years. She also has gained experience teaching the IB and Cambridge curriculum in her previous position in an International School. Ms Kasturi is passionate about Science and enjoys integrating creative approaches into lessons and exploring new teaching methods. Outside of school, Ms Kasturi loves to travel, read and watch movies.

Ms Pier was born in Trinidad and Tobago. She completed her secondary education in London and her degree at the University in London. She has taught in the UK, South Korea, Czechia and Tenby Penang, gaining over 11 years of experience working with a range of students.

She likes to bring balance to the classroom by ensuring students’ education and wellbeing are both considered, hand in hand. In relation to that, outside of school Ms Pier enjoys wellbeing practices such as mediation, planning and facilitating retreats and spending time in nature. She also loves painting, interior decoration and trying out different eateries.

Mr Shahrul Afzanizam started off his career teaching Secondary Mathematics and Science at one of the international schools in Penang for 6 years. After that, he moved to KL to teach at one of the international schools there and then finally joined Straits International School, Penang. He is a graduate of Universiti Sains Malaysia and has been teaching these two subjects for over 14 years now.

In his previous school, he took a wide range of responsibilities, among others, the Assistant of MYP Coordinator in IB School, Assistant Head of Science Department, IGCSE Malay language Speaking Examiner. He was appointed as an IGCSE Additional Mathematics Examiner while serving at Straits in 2018. Outside the classroom, Mr. Shahrul is a keen solo traveller and loves spending his summer holidays in foreign countries as he believes travelling exposes us to different cultures and mentalities. After all, life has so much to offer.

Ms Soon is a graduate of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). She is a holder of the Cambridge International Diploma for Teachers & Trainers (CIDIT) from Cambridge International Examinations and obtained her Master degree in Education. She has been a teacher for more than 10 years teaching Mandarin as a Foreign Language. She loves travelling and is keen in playing badminton. She believes students should believe in one’s dream because it is hard to beat a person who never gives up.

Ms Lorainne graduated from UNITAR International University with a Bachelor of Education, majoring in Mathematics. She is very passionate about both Mathematics and teaching.

With more than five years of experience, she has taught Mathematics to students ranging from preschool to secondary school. She loves working with children and finds it incredibly rewarding to watch them grow.

One of her greatest joys is seeing a student’s face light up when they finally understand a concept, especially in Mathematics or in areas where they have been struggling. In addition to teaching and Math, she enjoys baking.

Mr Marc is a distinguished educator who has completed a PGCE at St. Mary’s University, London. With a robust teaching background of a number of years in both the UK and international contexts, he is dedicated to fostering student-centered learning and enhancing critical thinking skills, especially in the subjects he has a particular passion for, English and History.

Additionally, Mr Marc possesses extensive expertise in global education marketing and partnerships. His interests include swimming, outdoor activities, and a profound appreciation for literature, philosophy, and history.

Ms Anita graduated from Open University Malaysia and is currently pursuing her second degree at Universiti Sains Malaysia. She possesses genuine enthusiasm and passion in teaching mathematics for more than 9 years and her speciality is in secondary, although she has experience teaching primary. In her spare time, she loves kicking back with a good novel or sudoku.

Our new librarian, Ms Nurul Farahin is adventurous, outgoing and altruistic. She continues to keep herself aligned with the current trends needed for businesses to succeed, and constantly motivates herself to be confident at everything she does.

She looks forward to learning new skills and be able to contribute to the growth and development for the students and for the school.

Ms Nassiha was born in Penang. She graduated from the Management and Science University (MSU) and also has a Master Degree in Early Childhood Education from University Sains Malaysia (USM). She has been a lecturer at Segi College Penang. Teaching is one of her passions as she knows that young children can be into being a valuable person. She has been teaching since 2015 and previously she taught at one of the private preschools in Penang. During her free time, she likes to read, cook and also spend time with her family members.

Ms Sri Kamini Santhansamy graduated in 2016 from Unitar International University, Malaysia. She is from Kulim, Kedah where she also taught children at a preschool. She had completed her Bachelor in Early Childhood Education in Unitar International University and has been teaching for more than 7 years – with experience in teaching Mathematics to children aged 4 years. Her hobbies are reading novels and listening to music. She loves teaching because every day is different. She wants to make a big impact in children’s lives, and believes that the joy from children makes teaching exciting. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling around the world with her family to explore different culture and backgrounds of the countries

Ms Sim Jia Xin was born in Penang. She is a graduate of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Malaysia. She has a great passion to teach Chinese; emphasising Chinese Character recognition and learning with intensive fun classroom activities. She is an outdoor person and enjoys hiking on various trails in Penang Island such as Penang Hill Viaduct, Sungai Ara to Balik Pulau, Balik Pulau to Ayer Itam Dam. She also enjoys playing the piano and singing.

Mrs Sanggari Elancheran was born and raised in the vibrant state of Selangor, and completed her Bachelor of Education at University Tun Abdul Razak (Unirazak) in 2013.

For the past nine years, she has had the privilege teaching both international schools in Selangor and Sungai Petani. Her primary focus include Primary Humanities and Science.

Through her lessons, she wishes to instill a love for learning in her students, and empowering them to become independent thinker

Ms Rukhsana hails from Penang, Malaysia. She graduated from SEGI College Penang and has completed her Bachelor of Education (Hons) in Primary Education at the Wawasan Open University. Teaching has always been her passion and she has been teaching pre-schoolers for 7 years prior to joining SIS. Ms Rukhsana has attended a lot of workshops on education and fun learning. Her hobbies are baking and travelling.

Ms Mohana comes from Penang and has a Master degree graduate in Education and Administration (USM) and Degree in Mathematics (HONs). She has been in the teaching industry for more than 15 years with experience being a Mathematics lecturer in PIDC (FIS). Throughout her career, she has gone through many trainings and development in the Education system and also classroom management.

Teaching has become her passion since she was small as she always learned new things and loved to provide social guidance to the students. Apart from that, she is happy to see her students grow in knowledge, confidence and skills and keeps learning new things every day. Ms Mohana loves new adventures, spending time with her family, playing badminton and baking as well.

Mrs Chioh (Jacee) hails from Perak. She graduated from University Tun Abdul Razak. Due to her interest in the counselling field, she subsequently furthered her studies at the University of Malaya (Masters of Counselling) and qualified as a registared counselor under the Board of Counsellors Malaysia. She previously worked as a school counsellor in one of the secondary school in Puchong. Her hobbies are listening to music, reading and jogging.

Mr Izwary originates from Pendang, Kedah. He completed his study at Mara University of Technology. For the past 15 years, he pursued his passion in music. Mr Izwary is a highly skilled and quallfied musician, composer, arranger, vocalist, and a performing art expert. He also has a broad range of expertise in musical production and sound engineering. He is focused on cultivating the musical culture.

Mr Hasfis originates from Terengganu. He completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Art and Design education from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UITM) in 2012. He joined SIS since 2013 and taught art and design from primary up to secondary level. His expertise is in traditional art and craft and has been involved in few art exhibitions. He was also a qualified trainer and leader for the Duke of Edinburgh International Award programme. In his spare time, he loves outdoor activities and is actively involved in cycling and hiking.

Mrs Haniza obtained her first degree from University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, and completed her Post Graduate Studies from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). She has been teaching ICT subjects for over 15 years in a private college before joining Straits International School. She aspires to fulfill the students by ensuring they have the highest quality education. This is to nurture the students to become competent, knowledgeable and help them to develop their skills as creators of technology. In her spare time, she likes to travel with her family, hiking and get involved in sports like aerobics.

Mr Dennis is born and bred in Penang. He graduated from KDU college and obtained his CIDTT for teaching in the first 4 years of his teaching career. He has been teaching in private and international schools for the pass 15 years. He loves hiking, jogging, all types of sports, music and fabricating different things for miniature boardgames to display models.

Ms Beryl is a returning teacher to Straits International School, with a rich background in teaching the mandarin language. She received her Postgraduate Certificate in Education (International) (PGCEi) from the University of Nottingham in United Kingdom, and supported with a Master’s Degree in Translation and Interpretation and a Bachelor’s Degree Foreign language and Literature from Taiwan.

Being a positive, trustful and innovative individual, Ms Beryl’s passion in teaching allows her to watch the students grow in both skills and academic knowledge, while assisting them to understand the truth of life.

Ms Nurul Nadia was born and raised in Penang. She had completed her certification in Early Childhood Care and Education by the Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat Malaysia (JKMM) from the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development and has been teaching for more than 5 years. She started her career in Early Leaming working as a toddler teacher and day care teacher. Before working at SIS, she had worked at a preschool with children ranging from 2 month-old babies to 4 years old. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family doing many activities.

Born and raised in Taping, Perak. Ms Syila worked as a registered nurse in the Intensive Care Unit for 10 years. She retrained to be a teacher and started working in the education section in 2014 at the British Interational School Al-Khobar Saudi Arabia. Later in 2017, she joined E-Bridge Preschool, Penang as an Infant Care Nurse and Pre Nursery teacher. Ms Syila loves reading and has worked in the library in her previous school so she has now joined our library team. When she is not at school, Ms. Syilawati likes to spend time with her family.

Mr Shesh is a Masters holder in Business Administration from Universiti Utara Malaysia, and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Upper Iowa University, USA.

From Penang, he has 10 years of strong academic and teaching background at international schools and various academic institutions. As a committed teacher, he is guided by the motto “live to learn and learn to live”. He inspires and empowers his students, encouraging them to build confidence and maintain unwavering focus on their goals.

In his spare time, Mr Shesh likes going for adventure activities and listening to music.

Ms Murni is born and bred in Penang. She graduated in 2015 from International Islamic University Malaysia. Before she joined SIS, she was a part of scientific team in developing safe vaccine against enterovirus which has successfully entered phase 1 of a clinical tral. She has a number of years’ experience working in the laboratory. In her spare time, Ms Muni enjoys spending time with family, friends, and cats.

Syazana describes herself as a cheerful, friendly and adventurous person in the education field. She hopes to elevate students’ education experience and look forward to learning new things through her teaching journey.

Syazana aims to become an advocate for lifelong learning and ready to face challenges ahead.

Mrs Mathi graduated from SEGi College Penang with Diploma In Early Childhood Education and currently pursuing Bachelor Of Psychology at Open University Malaysia.

Through her 7 years of teaching young children and primary students at Malaysian preschools and tuition centres, she focuses on the importance of addressing children’s emotional needs in order to successfully guide them through their learning journey.

She is always eager to learn new skills and embracing challenges that come with it. Mrs Mathi brings herself to try new recipes, listen to the latest music, and outdoor activities like hiking and taking casual walks on the beach.

Crystal is a passionate educator with a strong background in early childhood education. She embarked on her academic journey by pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education at OUM. Eager to expand her horizons, she pursued a Master of Arts in Education with a major in Early Childhood Education from USM.  She firmly believes that a strong foundation in early childhood education sets the stage for a lifetime of learning and success. Her academic background, combined with her years of practical experience, equips her with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners.

With a Bachelor of Sport Science (Coaching Science) with Honours from Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI), Alisa is currently pursuing a career in education with a specific focus on sports coaching. She is dedicated to honing their teaching skills for both the academic classroom and sports field. Her overarching objective is to empower students to excel not only academically but also in athletic pursuits.  Alisa aspires to become an exemplary educator and coach, poised to make a lasting impact on the academic and sporting development of students in the international school community.

Ms. Sam is passionate about teaching and has many years of experience. She truly enjoys helping young children learn and views each day in the classroom as an opportunity to explore together, inspired by the kids’ curiosity and creativity. She’s eager to develop her skills further and believes that she can help create a vibrant learning environment.  She enjoys reading and writing in her free time and shares her love of literature with her students to inspire their interest in stories.

Amy has more than 25 years’ experience in semiconductor manufacturing, higher education, business development and marketing professions. She holds a Master of Science in Information Technology (Business) from University of Lincoln, UK, and a Bachelor of Information Technology from University of Southern Queensland, Australia. She acquired vast academic leadership and management experience when she headed the School of Engineering, Science and Technology in KDU Penang University College and then became the Senior Manager of Business Development and Marketing Department.

Meet Ms Ming Shee, an accomplished event executive with a proven track record of transforming concepts into memorable experiences. From organising themed events and coordinating student competitions to managing large-scale pep rallies, Ms Ming Shee consistently brings creativity, innovation, and energy to every project.  She enjoys expressing herself through music and singing, and sharing her passion with others.

Li Lin is a Penangite and has been working with Straits International School since June 2014. She is often prospective parents first point of contact, offering advice on how to fill in the application and leading great school tours. She holds a Bachelor (Hons.) in Business Management degree from Wawasan Open University, Penang and the Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) qualification from ACCA, UK. She loves to interact with parents and students and she enjoys coming to work every day, seeing the students grow from their first day.

Ms. Chan Mei Ping is an accountant with over ten years of experience in various industries, including firms, festivals, tourism, and Multinational Corporation shared services. She began her accounting career at a young age and enjoys challenges. A highly organised, thorough, productive, and dedicated professional, she also enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with family.

Cheryl helps to bridge a support system between parents and the school, while also encouraging family involvement in school life.

She describes herself as approachable, communicative and funny – one of the few named traits among others.

Through her guidance, she looks forward to further grow the Straits parent community.

Chris is a Chartered Accountant with over ten years of experience in Financial Accounting, including four years of pioneering and leading the Penang Finance & Payroll Team. Experienced in BPO, MNC Shared Services, Manufacturing and External Auditing. Involved in the transitioning of accounting functions, and implementation of GST and SST. Aspires to challenge himself and leverage his extensive knowledge and experiences in a stable and competitive team.

CK Chew, a business school graduate, has valuable experience in event management, social media, marketing, and communications. Through his roles in the Penang State Government, including Exco Youth & Sport and Penang Youth Development Corporation, he has honed his skills in executing successful events and utilising social media platforms for effective outreach. His diverse background equips him with the ability to drive impactful campaigns and achieve organisational goals.

Daniel is a certified electrical technician and completed his studies in Institute of Technology and Management, Penang to gain knowledge and improve his skills. He sees a better future at Straits International School and always performs to his best in executing the tasks.

Deeva has more than 12 years of experience in IT field in various industries such as hospitality and manufacturing. He comes from Butterworth, Penang and joined Straits International School since 2015. Deeva and his team play a vital role in providing and enhancing the overall learning experience for the students to acquire more knowledge, information and interest in their studies.

Ammar comes from Georgetown, Penang and graduated with a Diploma in Business, majored in Business Management from KLMU. He has ten years of working experience in various industries such as Management, Retail Pharmacy and Manufacturing. Ammar strives to challenge himself further in this industry and enjoy in contributing his human resource knowledge to the community in Straits International School.

Saleh is the formal Section Head of Malaysia Army and served at Somalia for 15 years. He relocated back to Penang in 2005 and has been working for Giant Hypermarket at the security department and as an Operation Officer at Kurniwan Sec. Saleh is a good team player and always shows cooperation and dedication in his work.

Anuar graduated from Universiti Malaysia Perlis and is deeply passionate about technology and committed to making a valuable contribution to the everchanging field of information technology. He is also eager to contribute to a dynamic team and obtain practical field experience in the education sector.

Faris achieved his Certificate in Aircond & Ventilation, and majored in facilities and building management. He has been working in various industries such as F&B, electronics, electrical, medical provide a safe yet cozy learning environment to the school community by eliminating potential risk in building management.

Ms Saravanee comes from Alor Star, Kedah and has been working at Straits International School Penang since February 2016. She is a nursing graduate from Bukit Merah Lake Town Institute Allied Health and Sciences (BMLIAHS) which now known as Lake View College (LVC). After graduation she started her career as a staff nurse at Penang Gleneagles Medical Centre, then as a care giver to an elderly home before joining education industry. Working in education site as a nurse is totally different due to its environment because in school she is taking care of students, teachers and staff with high responsibilities for care every day.

Siti graduated from Open University Malaysia with Degree in Management, majored in Human Resource. She has more than 18 years of working experience in various industries such as insurance, automotive and hospitality management. She loves meeting with enthusiastic people from different nationalities and ethnicity and enjoy gaining experience in the area of administration and purchasing by working in an international school.