Kian Kok celebrates Teachers' Day
Published on: Sunday, May 18, 2025
Published on: Sun, May 18, 2025 Text Size: Teachers with long service awards posing with members of the Board of Directors. KOTA KINABALU: Kian Kok Middle School celebrated its annual Teachers' Day luncheon Saturday with a heartfelt and lively gathering attended by members of the Board of Governors, teaching and support staff, school administrators, Education Department officials and primary school principals. The event served not only to honour the tireless contributions of teachers but also to reaffirm the school's unwavering commitment to Chinese education.
Advertisement In his speech, Datuk Clement Yeh, Chairman of the Board of Governors, extended his deepest gratitude and highest respect to the school's educators and support personnel. 'Happy Teachers' Day—thank you for your dedication and hard work,' he said, praising the teachers who serve not for fame or personal gain, but out of a profound sense of mission.
'Teachers are the engineers of society,' he remarked. 'You enlighten minds, warm hearts and uphold your responsibilities with love and commitment. This spirit is one of the greatest strengths of Kian Kok Middle School.' Yeh also paid tribute to the Board's honorary advisors, whose continued financial and moral support have played a vital role in the school's growth — particularly during times of fiscal hardship.
Advertisement 'We are operating under a deficit,' he acknowledged, 'but we remain steadfast. Chinese education must not be interrupted; our mother tongue and cultural heritage must be preserved. Education cannot wait, cannot be compromised and cannot be delayed.' He warmly welcomed the presence of Chinese primary school principals and officer from the Education Department, calling their attendance 'a powerful symbol of unity, collaboration and shared commitment to the cause of Chinese education.' Principal Goh Teck Seng echoed the Chairman's sentiments and expressed appreciation on behalf of the school's leadership and staff. He thanked the Board of Governors for organising the event and for their pivotal decision earlier this year to approve a two-level salary increment for all staff — a gesture he said had brought much-needed relief amid rising living costs and greatly boosted staff morale. 'The steady growth of our student population over the past five years reflects the community's trust in the quality of our teaching,' said Goh. 'It is a testament to the dedication and nurturing spirit of our teachers.' He highlighted the contributions of veteran educators who have served the school for over 25 years: 'These teachers have dedicated their youth and wisdom to the soil of Chinese independent education. They are shining examples to us all.' Goh also lauded the Board for its consistent investment in campus improvements and beautification projects, which have enhanced both safety and the overall learning environment, while also reinforcing a strong sense of belonging among students and staff. He encouraged teachers to embrace their roles as catalysts of educational reform, reminding them that while the path of education may be challenging, it is also one of the most noble and meaningful. As the luncheon drew to a close, the atmosphere was one of gratitude, unity and renewed purpose. Both the Board and school leadership reaffirmed their commitment to working hand-in-hand for the continued advancement of the school, the well-being of its teachers, and, above all, the success of its students. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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