personality, a teacher’s ability is also assessed through their teaching competence, which complements
educational effectiveness. Teaching competence includes a teacher’s proficiency in planning, implementing,
and evaluating instruction effectively. It also involves mastery of subject content, the use of appropriate
teaching strategies, and the ability to manage communication in Arabic efficiently.
Therefore, this study was conducted to examine the relationship between teachers’ personality and teaching
competence among Arabic language teachers in schools. The focus of this study is based on the belief that a
teacher’s personality not only influences students’ moral and spiritual development but also affects how
effectively teachers carry out their professional responsibilities, particularly their teaching competence. A
deeper understanding of this relationship is expected to provide implications for teacher training, professional
development, and educational policy enhancement—especially in the context of Arabic language education in
Malaysia.
LITERATURE REVIEW
The role of teachers in the education system is not limited to the delivery of knowledge but also encompasses
the development of students’ character and holistic human potential. In the context of Arabic language teaching
in schools, teachers play a crucial role not only as language educators but also as role models of Islamic
morals, culture, and exemplary character. Therefore, a teacher’s personality, as well as their level of teaching
competence, are essential aspects that must be emphasized to ensure the effectiveness of the learning process.
A teacher’s personality is often associated with internal values that influence how teachers interact, make
decisions, and carry out their professional responsibilities. Values such as trustworthiness (amanah), sincerity
(ikhlas), patience (sabr), humility (tawadhu’), fairness (‘adl), and consistency (istiqamah) are among the core
traits emphasized in the concept of personality from the Islamic educational perspective. Personality is not
limited to personal morality but also includes etiquette in dressing, communication style, emotional
management, and relationships with students and the community. A study by Indana and Roifah (2021) found
that students tend to respect and follow teachers who display exemplary moral behavior rather than those who
are merely proficient in delivering content. Meanwhile, Hadziq et al. (2024) highlighted that teachers with
good character and conduct can influence students’ attitudes in instilling values such as empathy, honesty,
kindness, and discipline while creating a positive learning environment.
In the context of Arabic language teachers, personality plays an even greater role because they not only teach
the language but also act as ambassadors of the Islamic values embedded within it. rabic is the language of
divine revelation, the language of the Qur’an and Hadith, as well as the language of worship used in prayer and
supplication. Hence, students often assess the credibility and authenticity of Arabic language teachers based on
how they conduct themselves, speak, and align their teachings with their actions. Awad (2023) emphasized the
importance of possessing a noble and virtuous personality among Arabic teachers, which includes values such
as patience, kindness, and integrity. These qualities serve as a moral example for students while fostering a
positive educational environment inspired by the Prophet’s teachings. This indicates that the personality of
Arabic language teachers not only reflects personal values but also reinforces students’ understanding of Islam
through behavior and character consistent with the knowledge being imparted.
Apart from personality, teaching competence is another key factor that determines teacher effectiveness.
Teaching competence generally encompasses content knowledge and pedagogical skills. It also includes the
use of appropriate instructional strategies, proficiency in communicating in Arabic, and the ability to assess
student learning. Competent teachers can deliver lessons clearly, encourage active student participation, and
ensure that learning objectives are successfully achieved. A study by Alsubhi et al. (2023) asserted that high
levels of competence among Arabic language teachers play a significant role in determining students’
understanding and mastery of the language, especially when interactive and communicative teaching methods
are used.
Several other studies have also shown that teachers who adopt student-centered approaches, utilize modern
technology, and develop appropriate teaching aids can enhance students’ motivation to learn Arabic. In a study