Sterling performance by Kian Kok students
Published on: Mon, Jul 28, 2025 Text Size: The performers and guests. Kota Kinabalu: A one-hour blackout and brief mid-performance disruption did not dampen the spirits of performers at Kian Kok Middle School's annual Cultural Night, Saturday. The event themed 'Joy at Kian Kok' featured musical, dance and multicultural acts. Attendees, including parents and special guests, witnessed the resilience of students and staff as they adapted to the unexpected technical challenge. In his opening speech, Board Chairman Datuk Clement Yeh praised the students' initiative, emphasising that the event was more than just entertainment, it was a platform for growth. 'At Kian Kok, education goes beyond grades. It is about nurturing passion, character and creativity. Tonight, our students did not just perform, they proved their ability to adapt and excel under pressure,' he said. Clement pointed out the school's commitment to well-rounded development as reflected by recent achievements, including its brass band winning gold at a national competition and its Chinese orchestra preparing for a 2026 cultural exchange in Taiwan. Guest of Honour David Lam, who is Honorary Advisor to the Board, lauded the performances as a profound life lesson in passion and perseverance. 'Kian Kok is not just producing top scorers but about cultivating dreamers. On this stage, students found their voices and the courage to chase their futures,' he said. The power outage became an unplanned highlight, with students and staff working to keep spirits high. Their composure left an impression on parents and guests, who described the night as a journey of hope and resilience. As the curtain fell, the thunderous applause echoed the school's mission to empower every child to shine in their own unique light. 'Education is not just about exams. It is about being seen, heard and believed in. Tonight, we did not just witness talent, we saw the power of unwavering belief in every student's potential,' said David. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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