BATU KAWA – The Batu Kawa constituency celebrated its brightest students on 12 July 2026 with the STPM Excellence Awards, recognising outstanding academic performers who achieved a CGPA of 3.0 and above in the 2025 examinations.
The awards ceremony highlighted the achievements of students from both SMK Batu Kawa and other schools across Kuching, who either studied locally or resided in Batu Kawa while pursuing their STPM elsewhere. The initiative was praised as a meaningful recognition of academic success and a contribution to Sarawak’s nation-building efforts.
Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Dr Sim Kui Hian, congratulated the recipients, emphasising that the awards were not merely financial tokens but symbols of pride and encouragement. He noted that the students had brought honour to themselves, their families, teachers, and the Batu Kawa community.
The event also featured a briefing from Mr Liew Zhe Rong of Yayasan Sarawak, who outlined the various incentives available to Sarawakian students pursuing higher education. These include scholarships, study loans, and assistance programmes for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, designed to support students in achieving their academic and professional goals.
Among the award recipients from SMK Batu Kawa were Irene Isabell, Maytheen John, and Irill Neilson, each achieving a CGPA of 3.00. Other notable achievers included Shirley Kon Xin Li and Stefanny Jupitin with 3.08, Kimberley Michelle with 3.17, and Chang Foh Soon, who attained the highest score of 4.00.
Students from outside SMK Batu Kawa but residing in the constituency were also honoured. These included Jessy Chen Jia Qi from SMK Green Road with 3.00, Emmanuel Ian Chee Shuen from SMK Batu Lintang with 3.08, and Bong Xin Yee from SMK Batu Lintang, who achieved a perfect 4.00. Several others from schools such as St Joseph, SMK Kuching High, SMK Pending, and SMK Matang Jaya also featured prominently among the top scorers.
The awards underscored the diversity of talent within Batu Kawa, reflecting the constituency’s commitment to nurturing excellence across different schools and backgrounds. The recognition of students from multiple institutions highlighted the inclusive nature of the initiative, ensuring that all achievers within the community were celebrated.
Dr Sim reiterated that education remains a cornerstone of Sarawak’s development. He stressed that academic excellence contributes directly to the state’s progress, as well-trained graduates are essential for driving innovation, leadership, and socio-economic growth. He encouraged students to continue striving for success in their university studies, reminding them that their achievements would play a role in shaping Sarawak’s future.
The STPM Excellence Awards also served as a platform to inspire younger students, demonstrating the rewards of hard work and perseverance. By showcasing the accomplishments of high achievers, the event aimed to motivate others to pursue academic excellence and take advantage of the opportunities provided by institutions such as Yayasan Sarawak.
The ceremony concluded with heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients, with organisers expressing confidence that the students would excel in their university education and beyond. The recognition was seen not only as a celebration of individual achievement but also as a collective step towards strengthening Sarawak’s educational foundation.
