Lau (front row, fourth left) with others during the cutting of Teachers’ Day cake ceremony.
SIBU: SM Wong Nai Siong board of directors chairman Temenggong Dato Vincent Lau Lee Ming said the nation’s development depended very much on teachers as they play crucial role in shaping the society .
He stressed this point yesterday when officiating at the school’s Teachers’ Day celebration here.
Lau said education has brought great opportunities as well as immense challenges to both schools and students.
He also urged SM Wong Nai Siong teachers to discharge their duty selflessly and with great sense of responsibility.
Also present were the board’s deputy chairman Datuk Chieng Buong Toon, treasurer Albert Lau and school principal Lu Yew Hiing.
On SM Wong Nai Siong, Lau said the school has continued the tradition of keeping alive the rich Chinese culture.
“SM Wong Nai Siong has come a long way from a once obscure school to becoming one of the best Chinese independent schools in Sibu.
“Despite the difficulties faced in running the school, we’ve been able to move forward towards achieving our mission of upgrading the school and the standard of education offered.
“We have overcome all difficulties to deliver batches and batches of excellent graduates each year,” he enthused.
Lau commended the teachers for their exemplary leadership and hardworking attitude in ensuring that the school will remain relevant.
“Many of you have been teaching for decades,” he said of the teachers whom he noted have been doing much to upgrade themselves.
They are also willing to guide the younger teachers who themselves are full of innovation and capabilities.
“Combined, these qualities make our teachers strong in their pursuit to build a solid foundation for the school,” he added.
Lau said the school which had barely about 20 teachers a decade ago, has seen the number shot up to over 50 today.
He acknowledged the great effort of the school’s board of directors in helping the school to reach its present standing.
“I am glad to note that through the concerted effort of all quarters who include the school staff, former students, parents, directors of the management board and students, our school has been able to progress remarkably well.”
Lau also conveyed his appreciation to all those who have contributed in one way or another towards the development of Chinese education.
Calling on teachers to continue to be role models for students, he said the management board will see to it that the teachers’ welfare is taken care of.
“We’ll continue to improve the physical facilities of our school, and create the right environment conducive to teaching and learning.
“We expect quality teachers who will earn respect of the students and their parents,” he added.
He also commended the school for its outstanding achievements in the academic field and co-curricular activities.
“Our achievements depend on the persistency and hardwork of everyone. “And it is the pride of everyone and the school to be able to cultivate and nurture so many talented students even during its most difficult years,” he said.