Principal David Teo (in white) and Yong (third from right) receiving the cheque from Chieng.
BUKIT Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng did not disappoint when he showed up at Sacred Heart Secondary School in Sibu, Sarawak, with a RM30,000 cheque.
He had visited the school on April 13 to inspect the damage inflicted by a freak storm which tore through the town.
After the inspection, he promised to allocate funds to facilitate repairs.
Chieng also lauded the school’s alumni, Sacred Heart School Old Students Association (Shosa), which was quick to step up to aid its alma mater.
“What I find impressive is how they rose to the challenge in finding money for the repairs. And also how quickly former students rallied together to help their school.
“Their spirit is truly commendable and worthy of emulation by everyone,” he said when handing over a cheque to the school.
“The school’s alumni and board of management members did not wait for others to help. They jumped right into the thick of things and started raising funds themselves.
“Sacred Heart School is rightfully proud of the many outstanding students they have produced over the years.
“While many have gone on to other things in life, they have never forgotten about their alma mater,” he said.
Chieng also handed gifts to the school’s teachers in conjunction with Teacher’s Day.
Praising them for their dedication, he urged them to keep up the high standards that were expected of Sacred Heart School.
“Remember, the students of today will become the leaders of tomorrow, and may they too come back to aid the school like the current generation of former students,” he added.
Shosa president Penghulu Yong King Sung thanked Chieng for extending financial aid to the school to repair its badly damaged roof.
“Your visit also highlighted our cause, which in turn, prompted even more former students to step forward to help our alma mater,” said Yong.
To date, Shosa and the school’s board of management have raised around RM97,800 inclusive of the RM30,000 from Chieng.
Others who chipped in were former students Tan Sri Clement Hii, Senator Robert Lau Hui Yew and the Class of 1981. Lanang MP Alice Lau also contributed to the rebuilding fund.
The school needs RM250,000 to repair the roof, electrical rewiring as well as replace damaged books and flooring.
