12/07/2025

SATURDAY | JULY 12, 2025

COMMUNITY 7

Fundraising event to relocate historic 118-year school

Ű BY JOSHUA CHANG newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KOTA KINABALU: As preparation for its historic relocation, Sung Siew Secondary School in Sandakan launched the Onward Sung Siew Run (OSSR) on July 5, celebrating its 118th anniversary while raising funds for its new school building. Hundreds of participants, including students, alumni and community well-wishers, flooded the school grounds for the event, which featured 1km and 3km competitive races and family friendly walk. The run marks the first major fundraiser for the school’s highly anticipated move, aiming to secure a modern learning environment for future generations. Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, a proud alumnus, hailed the relocation as“a transformative leap for education in Sandakan.” “This isn’t just about a new building. It’s about building the future,“ said Joachim, who also serves as Sabah’s minister of Local Government and Housing. “For 118 years, Sung Siew has shaped leaders. Now, we ensure it continues to do so with facilities that match its legacy.” The move will expand learning spaces for growing student needs, modernise facilities to foster innovation and preserve the school’s heritage while embracing progress. Joachim proposed making the OSSR an annual event, ensuring sustained support for the relocation and promoting community unity. Key figures in attendance were Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee, Tanjong Papat assemblyman Datuk Frankie Poon Ming Fung, Datu Roslih Datu Siabok from the District Education Office and Sandakan Municipal Council president Walter Kenson. School leaders present included Board of Governors chairman Vun Soon Chong, Alumni Association president Johnny Lim and Principal Kwok Chee Yen.

Young pupils ready for a demonstration at The Shudokan.

Country’s first aikido dojo marks 64 years of harmony

SEREMBAN: The Shudokan, a respected Seremban landmark and Malaysia’s first aikido dojo , or learning centre, welcomed over a hundred visitors to its open day on June 28, marking 64 years of cultivating unity, wellness and community spirit. Founded by the late Thamby Rajah Sensei in 1961, The Shudokan has built a reputation as more than just a martial arts school. It has long served as a gathering place where Malaysians from diverse backgrounds grow together, guided by the discipline and philosophy of aikido, a traditional Japanese martial art. Guests were treated to demonstrations, o Martial arts centre holds open day with games, food stalls and trial classes Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah, who is also Home deputy minister, at Tasik Raban. The majority of the off-road race trails passed through Hutan Simpan Piah, a protected forest reserve. The terrain tested the riders’ physical and mental strengths due to the jungle tracks, rocky trails, rivers, hills and mountains. “The race not only promotes motoring sports but also enhances local economic activities, including businesses for homestay owners, as well as hawkers, rural tourism sectors and local youngsters who would benefit from the event. “Although it is a sports activity, all guidelines set by the Forestry Department and other local authorities are strictly followed,“ Shamsul Anuar said in his speech during the flag-off ceremony. Some 5,000 people converged at Lenggong to watch the race. There were brisk sales of local products, as well as a motorcycle exhibition, cultural shows and interaction with professional racers.

“I believe this art will keep bringing Malaysians together, generation after generation, because its core message of harmony is timeless,” he said. The open day also acknowledged The Shudokan’s recent recognition as the National Press Club–Macrokiosk Muhibbah Award winner for December 2024. Sirajuddin Aziz, whose two children have been training there for the last year, said: “It’s rare to find places like this where values are passed down through generations. It’s not just about martial arts; it’s about raising good people, learning respect and being part of a supportive community.” Wilson Wu, a student since 2014, chimed in: “This place feels like home. The friends I’ve made here, and the lessons I’ve learned, go far beyond what happens on the mat.” The Shudokan remains a living testament to Malaysia’s enduring tradition of unity in diversity, and a space where new generations will continue to grow together.

beginner-friendly trial classes, family activities, games and food stalls. They also experienced the respect, resilience and harmony that the dojo continues to promote. Joe Thambu, the shuseki shihan or chief instructor of Aikido Shudokan International, and nephew of Thamby Rajah, expressed pride in The Shudokan’s enduring relevance. “The Shudokan has always been a reflection of what makes this country special, a place where people of all races and beliefs come together with mutual respect,” he said. “For 64 years, this dojo has stood as a quiet, steady example of how unity can thrive through shared values and friendships.” He also shared his hopes for the future of aikido in Malaysia and what it can continue to offer in modern times. “Aikido isn’t just a tradition we preserve for nostalgia; it’s a way forward. In an increasingly divided world, it reminds us to move with empathy, to resolve conflict without aggression, and to uplift those around us.

Joachim (centre) leads runners at the Onward Sung Siew Run.

Adventurous motorbike race through Lenggong jungle terrain

Ű BY P. CHANDRA SAGARAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

IPOH: The lush Lenggong district, which is famed as a Unesco World Heritage Site, saw 302 motorbike riders from 15 countries flaunting their skills to manoeuvre through some 250km of arduous terrain during an international off road race held from June 26 to 29. The Rimba Raid X Lenggong marked the annual event’s 10th anniversary with Lenggong playing host for the second time. Rimba Raid is one of the largest off-road races in Southeast Asia, attracting participants from Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, Italy, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Taiwan, China, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and USA. This year’s event was divided into six categories, including a new one for e-bikes in line with the trend towards sustainable mobility. The race was flagged off by Lenggong MP

Over 300 bikes were featured in the Rimba Raid race hosted by Lenggong for the second time.