Research on school leadership in Malaysia and similar contexts highlights that the "Cikgu Besar" lifestyle is often defined by extreme .

: Unlike Western titles like "Sir" or "Miss," the title "Cikgu" is an identity that persists long after retirement, reflecting a lifelong commitment to the community.

In Malaysia, the term (typically for primary schools) or "Pengetua" (for secondary schools) carries deep cultural respect. However, this "big teacher" identity often comes with a demanding lifestyle that can significantly impact health.