SM Min Lit Batu Kawa surpasses RM100k target at revived fundraising fair
Dr Sim strikes the gong to officiate the opening ceremony, joined by Choo (fourth left) and Lai (sixth right).
KUCHING (May 27): After an eight-year hiatus, Sekolah Menengah (SM) Min Lit Batu Kawa successfully revived its long-awaited fundraising fair with overwhelming support from the school community and the public, raising a total of RM136,259.50 ― surpassing its RM100,000 target.
According to a press release, the event brought together students, teachers, parents, alumni, and local residents in a strong display of unity and commitment to education and community spirit.
Officiated by Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, the event featured 45 booths offering food, beverages, crafts, games, household items, interactive games, handmade crafts, and agricultural products.
In his speech, Dr Sim commended the school and its community for their shared dedication to Chinese education.
He emphasised that the significance of the fundraising fair lay not merely in the funds raised, but in the collective effort ― 'everyone doing their part for Chinese education'.
Dr Sim also toured the fairgrounds, engaging warmly with vendors and students. He personally purchased and distributed fundraising tickets, demonstrating humility and genuine support.
During the event, he pledged support for three upcoming school development projects: the installation of an LED screen and industrial fans in the school hall, upgrades to the covered basketball court, and the addition of pickleball courts.
These initiatives follow last year's successful RM400,000 fundraising effort for the construction of the covered court. This year's RM200,000 goal aims to further enhance student facilities.
According to event organisers, funds were raised through RM50,000 in ticket sales, RM78,634 in donations from individuals and sponsors, and RM52,778.50 from booth proceeds ― including RM7,125.50 in direct cash contributions.
Board of Directors' chairman Choo Chong Teck praised the organising committee, made up mostly of first-time members, for their commitment, coordination, and outreach. He noted that he personally joined the principal in visiting businesses and community leaders to secure sponsorships.
Principal Lai Soh Ching said the fair was not only a financial success but also an invaluable learning experience for students, who gained practical skills in communication, logistics, teamwork, and leadership.
'The event provided them with a practical lesson in responsibility, leadership, and community service ― an embodiment of holistic education,' she said.
The fair ended on a high note, cementing the strong bonds between the school and its community and embodying the event's theme: 'United as One, Dreaming for the Future'. batu kawa min lit secondary school community Dr Sim Kui Hian fundraising
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