Chieng (seventh right) and principal David Teo (eighth right) pose with recipients of the excellence incentive awards.
SIBU (April 16): Education remains key to shaping Sarawak’s future, but it must be complemented by strong character, integrity and a commitment to contribute to society, said Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng.
He said this during the prize presentation ceremony for the SMK Sacred Heart’s Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) 2025 Student Excellence Incentive Awards here yesterday.
Chieng congratulated the school’s 69 students who achieved five As and above, describing their success as a reflection of hard work, discipline and the strong support of teachers and parents.
“Your achievements reflect not only your effort but also the guidance of your teachers and encouragement from your families,” he said.
He noted that the incentive initiative, now in its fourth consecutive year, aims to recognise academic excellence while motivating students to strive further.
This year alone, a total of 241 outstanding students across four secondary schools in his constituency achieved five As and above, with incentives amounting to about RM130,000.
Chieng said the programme goes beyond rewarding results, as it also celebrates students’ overall growth, including discipline, experience and personal development.
Touching on broader issues, he highlighted that Sarawak is currently undergoing a significant phase of transformation under its development agenda towards 2030, which focuses on sustainable and inclusive growth.
“You are not just students receiving awards today. You are future doctors, engineers, teachers, leaders and professionals who will drive Sarawak forward,” he said, urging students to continue learning and uphold values such as responsibility and respect.
He also commended teachers for their dedication and sacrifices in nurturing students beyond academics, noting that their role is instrumental in shaping well-rounded individuals.
“Dream big while staying grounded in values, embrace challenges as opportunities, and give back to society,” he told the recipients.
“Sarawak’s future will not be defined by its resources alone, but by the quality of its people. Looking at all of you today, I am confident in that future,” he added.
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