SIBU: Children’s Day is not only a celebration of happiness for the students but also a reminder that children are the laughter of families, the hope of society, and the pillars of the nation’s future.
Pointing out this, SJKC Kiang Hin’s School Board of Managment Chairman, Kapitan So Teck Kee, said their innocence, dreams and potential deserved to be seen, nurtured, respected and protected.
“We are grateful to our teachers for their dedication, and parents for their love and support, because a child’s growth does not belong only to the school but to the entire society,” he said.
He was speaking at the SJKC Kiang Hin’s 2025 Children’s Day Celebration cum Farewell for the school’s retiring Vice-Headmistress, Wong Yieng Ing, held at its multi-purpose hall here recently.
So also stressed that in today’s fast-changing world driven by technology, the standards of knowledge and skills continued to rise.
As students of this new era, he said it was no longer only about studying, taking exams and scoring high marks.
“You must learn to think, not merely memorise; to ask questions, not simply wait for answers; to collaborate, not only care for yourselves; and to face challenges, not give up when difficulties arise.
“You must cultivate self-discipline, independence in learning, and make good use of technology to improve efficiency, expand your worldview, and develop problem-solving skills – this is the kind of talent the future requires.
‘In the past, we used chalk and blackboards; today’s children use tablets and digital platforms. In the past, knowledge came from books and teachers; today, knowledge comes from the world, available at our fingertips,” he added.
Yet, he pointed out that, no matter how times changed, three things could never be replaced, namely a hardworking attitude, an upright character, and a grateful heart.
Technology, he explained, could teach knowledge but not moral values; artificial intelligence (AI) could provide answers, but it could never replace a kind and responsible heart.
Touching on Wong’s retirement, So paid special tribute to her, stating that since joining Kiang Hin Primary School in 1993, she had devoted herself wholeheartedly to education, guided students with love, and safeguarded the school with a strong sense of responsibility.
Though her major was in Bahasa Malaysia, he noted that she had not only taught language from textbooks but also taught her students manners, respect and character.
According to him, Wong had served as Co-curricular Activities Coordinator and Student Affairs Officer, walking alongside countless students, witnessing their journey from young children to contributing members of society.
In addition, So revealed that she had received three ‘Excellence in Service Awards’ from the Education Department and was once named the school’s ‘Most Hardworking Teacher’.
Yet, to Wong, the greatest honour was the growth of her students and the trust of parents.
Thanking for her wholeheartedly dedication of service to the school, So also expressed his sincere appreciation to all the teachers for lighting the path of knowledge and nurture with love and being the warmest guide in the children’s lives.
“Thank you to parents and the School Board of Management for your trust and support, which allow Kiang Hin Primary School to continue advancing and flourishing.
“To the students, cherish every moment, study well, prove yourselves through your actions and use your dreams to light up the future,” he added.
Among the entertainment programmes held during the event was the ‘Prince and Princess Competition – The Best Talent Award’.
Also present were SJKC’s Headmaster, Ling Ing Kiong, and other school board of management members, teachers and parents.
