About Me

About Me

I am Syahidan, a lecturer at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) specialising in Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), education development, educational policy, and student development. My academic work is grounded in a simple belief: meaningful education requires the courage to rethink, redesign, and challenge familiar assumptions.

My journey spans classroom teaching, educational leadership, and research. These experiences continue to shape how I teach. They influence how I investigate and contribute to the field of education.


Professional Journey

2010 — Foundations in Teaching

I began my career as a school teacher. This experience shaped my understanding of students, pedagogy, and the realities of classroom life. These formative years established the values and perspectives that guide my work today.

2015 — Educational Leadership

I later served as an Assistant Director at the Johor Education Department. In this position, I gained experience in program management. I also took part in system-level decision-making and policy implementation. This role expanded my insight into the broader landscape of Malaysian education.

The next chapter of this journey will be shared in a dedicated post.


Qualification and Certification

Bachelor of Education (Hons) – Queensland University of Technology, Australia

Master of Education (TVET) – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Doctor of Philosophy (Education & Development) – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Certified ATLAS.ti Professional Junior Trainer (CAPT)

Graduate Technologist (MBOT)


Academic Work at UTM

Courses Taught

  • MHPD1133 – Fundamentals of Education and Development
  • SHPP3042 – Research Methods in Education
  • SHPP2002 – Fundamentals of Pedagogy

Research Interests

  • Education for Sustainable Development
  • Educational Development & Policy
  • Service learning
  • Student Development and Leadership
  • Qualitative Research (case study, thematic analysis)
  • Mixed-Methods

Current Academic Directions

I am now working on:

  • An external research proposal on digital attendance systems and student accountability
  • Manuscripts for WoS and Scopus-indexed journals
  • Expanding my research portfolio in ESD and education development
  • Supervising an incoming postgraduate student

Guiding Principle

“Re-envisioning is not rebellion. It is the courage to redesign what others are afraid to question.”


Beyond the Office

Outside academia, I enjoy a strong cappuccino — extra shot, no sugar — and spending time outdoors. Hiking and exploring nature keep me balanced. Maintaining a consistent home workout routine grounds and energizes me for the work I do.