KUCHING: After an eight-year hiatus, Sekolah Menengah Min Lit Batu Kawa held an overwhelmingly successful fundraising fair, thanks to community support which helped it surpass its fundraising target.
The event, themed “United as One, Dreaming for the Future,” raised a total of RM136,259.50, exceeding the initially set RM100,000 goal by the organisers.
The fair brought together a broad scale of the school community, including students, teachers, parents, alumni, and residents, reinforcing the school’s values of education, collaboration and community spirit.
The funds were raised through ticket sales of RM50,000, donations from individuals and corporate sponsors totalling RM78,634, and booth proceeds of RM52,778.50, including direct cash contributions of RM7,125.50.
A total of 45 booths were set up by both internal and external participants, offering a wide variety of food, beverages, desserts, agricultural products, household goods, handmade crafts and interactive games.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who officiated at the event, commended the school and its wider community for their unity and unwavering support for education.
“The importance of this fair goes beyond the funds raised; it is about the spirit of collective effort, where everyone plays a role in advancing Chinese education,” he said.
Dr Sim also visited various booths, interacted with vendors and students, and purchased and distributed fundraising tickets, reflecting his strong support for the cause.
He pledged support for three upcoming school development initiatives: the installation of an LED display screen and industrial fans in the school hall; the upgrading of the covered basketball court, including lighting installation and floor repainting; and the construction of pickleball courts within the same facility.
These enhancements follow the school’s successful RM400,000 fundraising campaign last year for the construction of the covered court, with this year’s target set at RM200,000.
Principal, Lai Soh Ching, said the event was not only a fundraising success but also a meaningful educational experience for students.
“Through their involvement in the event, students gained valuable skills in organisation, communication, teamwork, leadership and problem-solving.
“This fair exemplifies holistic education in action,” she said.
The Chairman of the Board of Directors, Choo Chong Teck, praised the commitment and dedication of the organising committee, nearly 90 per cent of whom were first-time members.
He also expressed appreciation to all sponsors, vendors, and supporters who contributed in various capacities.
“The unity and effort shown in preparing for this fair reflect a strong sense of ownership and shared mission within the school community,” he said.
