Lions Troupes Overcome Storms for New Year Fundraising Showcasing the Resilient Spirit of Independent School Students

(Miri, 2nd) During this year's Lunar New Year, several regions in Sarawak experienced four consecutive days of torrential rain, with some areas even encountering unexpected floods. Nevertheless, even in the face of adverse weather, the students from the lion troupes persevered, insisting on conducting lion dance fundraising activities during the New Year, showcasing the spirit of independent school students who are not afraid of difficulties and forge ahead.

Chinese independent high schools in Malaysia have long relied on donations from devoted members of society to maintain their operations. Sources of funding include Chinese New Year lion dances, charity bazaars, entertainment evenings, and various fundraising events. Every single donation represents the Chinese community's support and emphasis on Chinese education.

This year, during the Spring Festival, due to the continuous rainfall influencing many areas in Sarawak, places that had never experienced water accumulation before also reported flood incidents, catching many residents off guard. Despite this, whether it be the lion troupes from Riam Road Secondary School or Pei Min Middle School, the students persisted in accomplishing each lion dance show, offering New Year blessings to businesses and citizens while raising educational funds for their schools.

Siew Tick Chai, the board secretary of Riam Road Secondary School, who led one of the lion troupes, stated that despite the adverse weather conditions, they understood the importance of this activity for the school and Chinese education, so they were willing to persist to the end, also expressing gratitude for the students' efforts in the lion troupes.

He also emphasized that lion dancing is not only a cultural heritage but also represents unity, courage, and the spirit of hard work.

Even if the weather was uncooperative, the Riam Road Secondary School lion troupe showed their indomitable spirit through concrete actions, making this Lunar New Year more meaningful.