On May 10, 2025, the 5th “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Show for Malaysian Primary School Students Finals was successfully held at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS). The event was hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Malaysia and organised by the Confucius Institute at UMS (CI@UMS). A total of 26 non-Chinese primary school students from across Malaysia advanced to the finals and gathered in Sabah to compete.
This year’s theme was “Chinese Joy&Fun!,” with the competition featuring a variety of segments including Chinese language and cultural knowledge quiz, prepared speech, talent show, and impromptu speech. After a fierce and exciting contest, Kirrtika A/P Muniandy from SJK(C) Wah Keow Langkap emerged as the champion. Claire Wilson from SJK (C) Che Hwa Kolombong won second place, and Gladys Wong Qi En from SJK(C) Su Kwong Sarikei secured third place. Kirrtika A/P Muniandy will be recommended to represent Malaysia at the global finals in China.
Mr. Ouyang Huifeng, Acting Consul General of the Consulate General of China in Kota Kinabalu, and Prof. Dr. Shahril bin Yusof, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) of UMS, attended the event and delivered speeches. Directors of CI@UMS, Dr. Chiew Tung Moi and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huang Yuehua, and representatives from Sabah Donglian, the Chinese Students Association of Sabah, corporate representatives from Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort and Kibing Solar Group Sabah, principals of Chinese primary schools, teachers from participating schools, and families of the contestants were also present, totalling around 150 attendees.
Prof. Dr. Shahril bin Yusof, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) of UMS, expressed the university’s strong support for the competition and encouraged the contestants to explore the beauty of the university campus. He emphasised that Malaysia is a country of rich linguistic and cultural diversity, and hope that the “Chinese Bridge” event would inspire more non-Chinese students to learn Chinese and appreciate Chinese culture.
Mr. Richie Kong @ Ambalong, Supervisor for Chinese Schools, Office of the Deputy Minister of Education, Sabah, served as the chief judge. In his comments, he praised the students’ Chinese language skills and cultural performances, offering thoughtful feedback and encouragement. He expressed hope that the young participants would continue enjoying their Chinese learning journey and shine even brighter in future competitions.
Mr. Richie Kong @ Ambalong, Supervisor for Chinese Schools, Office of the Deputy Minister of Education, Sabah, served as the chief judge. In his comments, he praised the students’ Chinese language skills and cultural performances, offering thoughtful feedback and encouragement. He expressed hope that the young participants would continue enjoying their Chinese learning journey and shine even brighter in future competitions.
During the intermission, renowned Malaysian Chinese music performer Mr. Simon Kong and the Lion dance troupe from SJK(C) St. Peter Telipok delivered a captivating performance, lighting up the atmosphere and adding to the festive spirit of the event.
