Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng awarded study incentives to 19 outstanding students from SMK Methodist who excelled in the 2023 Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia (STPM) examination. During the presentation, Chieng highlighted that the awards were a way to acknowledge the students' dedication and hard work. “We are now into the third year, and this year I am pleased to announce an allocation of RM22,700 in the form of incentive awards for 57 outstanding students from two schools in my area”, he added.
He emphasized that good education paves the way for students to have a better future and excel in their future undertakings. “I am convinced that investing in education is investing in the future of our children and I am committed to the spirit and nurturing the talents of the young people like you”, he told the students
He also urged the students to pursue their studies to the highest level and eventually return to contribute to the state's development. He mentioned that Sarawak aims to nearly double its economy from RM136 billion in 2019 to RM282 billion by 2030, with an annual growth target of six to eight percent. This goal is part of the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which focuses on establishing Sarawak as a leader in green economy practices, promoting sustainability, and achieving decarbonization.
“We are aiming for net zero emissions by 2050 and are pioneering the development of hydrogen as a zero-emissions fuel, renewable energy, Carbon Use and Storage (CCUS), and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)". With this development, Chieng said he foresaw many opportunities arising in Sarawak. “For that reason, your skills and innovation are very important for the future of the state”.
School principal Philip Ling reported that 67 candidates took the STPM 2023 exam, with the school improving its Grade Point Average (GPS) to 3.07 from 3.04 in 2022. This enhancement has positioned SMK Methodist among the top 10 STPM schools in the state. Additionally, he highlighted that two students, Clement Lee and Ling Ying Xin, achieved a perfect CGPA of 4.0.
