Tiong (third right) presents a memento to Ouyang (centre) as Xing (second right), Lau (third left) and others look on during the dialogue session.
SIBU (June 4): Chinese education remains one of the most valuable cultural legacies of the overseas Chinese community, playing a vital role in preserving heritage, nurturing future leaders and promoting cross-cultural understanding, said Datuk Tiong Thai King.
The United Association of Private Chinese Secondary Schools Board of Management Sibu chairman made the remarks during session with China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, and representatives of Chinese independent schools at Wisma Huawen Du Zhong here on Tuesday.
Tiong said the success and resilience of Chinese education today were built upon the sacrifices and determination of generations of early Chinese immigrants.
“More than a century ago, our forefathers arrived in Southeast Asia facing immense hardship, yet they never wavered in their belief that education should never be compromised, regardless of circumstances.
“Because of this unwavering commitment, Chinese education took root and flourished in foreign lands, surviving challenges and continuing to serve generations of students,” he said.
Tiong described Chinese independent schools as more than institutions of learning, saying they serve as cultural beacons that preserve the richness of Chinese civilisation, while cultivating future leaders and fostering exchanges among different communities.
He noted that the continued growth and development of Chinese independent schools in Sarawak has been made possible through strong community support and the state government’s progressive and inclusive education policies.
Tiong expressed appreciation to the Sarawak government for its longstanding recognition and support of Chinese education, describing its policies as a model for respecting cultural diversity.
He highlighted Sarawak’s recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) for recruitment into the state civil service, saying the move has created broader opportunities for graduates of Chinese independent schools.
“This reflects Sarawak’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognitions of the contributions made by Chinese independent schools to society,” he said, while commending Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for championing an inclusive administration.
Tiong also praised the institutionalised funding mechanism for Chinese independent schools, noting that it reflects the government’s commitment to educational development and multiculturalism.
“Under an environment of openness and mutual respect, Chinese education has been able to grow, innovate and contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s development,” he said.
He stressed that Chinese education is not about preserving culture in isolation but about embracing openness, dialogue and cooperation with others.
“We teach our students to appreciate and cherish Chinese culture, but we also teach them to love Malaysia and contribute to the nation,” he said.
“We preserve cultural heritage while promoting understanding and exchanges among different communities.”
Amid rapid technological transformation driven by artificial intelligence and digital innovation, Tiong said education remains the foundation of societal progress, while culture continues to provide strength, values and identity.
Looking ahead, he expressed hope for closer collaboration between Chinese independent schools and educational, cultural and exchange institutions in China.
Such cooperation, he said, would enable young people to acquire advanced knowledge and technological skills while continuing to uphold the values and wisdom embedded in Chinese culture.
Tiong added that Ouyang’s visit and dialogue session with representatives of Chinese independent schools would further deepen mutual understanding, strengthen educational and cultural cooperation, and enhance the longstanding friendship between Malaysia and China.
Also present were China’s Consul General in Kuching Xing Weiping and chairman of the Board of Management of Sarawak Chinese Independent Secondary Schools, Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming.
