Cai Gangming: Education Should Emphasize Practical Experience – Students Make Malay Ketupat to Learn About Culture

(Miri, 12th) The Chairman of Pujit Kindergarten, Penghulu Cai Gangming, stated that education is not just about learning knowledge in the classroom; more importantly, it is about allowing children to understand the diversity of society and culture through practice and experience. By learning to make Malay ketupat (Ketupat), the children are able to come into direct contact with Malay traditional culture, making it a very rare learning opportunity for them.

He made these remarks this morning while attending the cultural experience activity on making Malay ketupat (Ketupat), organized by Pujit Kindergarten.

He said that he was very happy to come to Pujit Kindergarten and participate together with everyone in this meaningful cultural activity. Seeing the school actively promoting multicultural learning and allowing children to learn about the traditions of different ethnic groups in a relaxed and happy environment, he feels very gratified.

Cai Gangming thanked the principal and teachers for their thoughtful arrangements, as well as the enthusiastic participation of parents from other ethnic groups, which made the event proceed smoothly. He believes that such activities not only enrich the children's learning experience, but can also promote understanding and friendship among different ethnic groups. He hopes that the children have fun and learn joyfully through the event.

He said that this activity was also held in conjunction with the annual Hari Raya celebration. By introducing traditional Malay food, children got to know Malay delicacies and the origin and cultural significance of ketupat, and took part in the making process.

He pointed out that Pujit Kindergarten is a private kindergarten, currently with about 120 students, about 50 percent of whom are from other ethnic groups, showing that more and more non-Chinese parents recognize the importance of Chinese education.

He also thanked the parents who helped with the activity, two of whom are alumni of the kindergarten and demonstrated the making of Malay ketupat on site. He also expressed thanks to alumni for their long-term support of the school, including their assistance in PTA and other activities.

Cai Gangming said that the kindergarten's software and hardware facilities are gradually being improved, and the school has also expanded the hall as a venue for students' extracurricular activities. He also appreciated the parents' support; on that day, parents specially prepared 130 ketupat for children to taste on the spot.

In addition, he did not forget to thank the Pujit constituency state assemblywoman Yew Xiao Shan, who gave great support last year by assisting to improve the school facilities, making the school's development even smoother.