Chai (front) helps Ting to stamp a Chinese character onto the board to mark the launch of the concert.
MIRI: Theatrical performances put together perfectly on a radiantly lit, well decorated stage and roaring applause from the audience marked the success of the 24th annual concert by SMK Chung Hua Miri.
The four-hour concert at Miri Civic Centre attracted hundreds of spectators comprising students, parents and members of the public over a period of three days, beginning April 20.
Students put on 35 stage performances from singing, folk and modern dances, sketches to instrumentals which showcased the multi-cultural elements of Sarawak, as well as modern fusion and classical music.
In her opening address last Saturday, chairwoman of the school’s board of directors, Tan Sri Datuk Paduka Chai Yu Lan said she was impressed by the incredible performances put up by the students.
“Being a Chinese-conforming school that transformed from a Chinese independent school, does not change the core of Chung Hua. In fact, aside from excelling academically and mastering three languages – Bahasa Malaysia, English and Mandarin – we always emphasise the importance of preserving the Chinese culture and arts and educating the younger generation through activities such as this,” Chai said.
“The perseverance and dedication of teachers in guiding the students should be lauded as they keep the machinery going. Encouragement and constant support are two very important elements to ensure that students would grow and develop as wholesome individuals,” Chai added.
Chai was later joined on the stage by Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting who is also the school’s legal advisor; Mayor Adam Yii; Temenggong Datuk Seri Lee Sie Tong; vice chairman of the school board, Chai Min Kian; chairman of SMK Chung Hua parents-teachers association (PTA) Dr Abdul Aziz Abdul Rahim and his deputy, Dr Jack Wong; and school principal Albert Ong for the official launch and cake-cutting ceremony.