By Susan Soh
MIRI (11 January 2025) — The Diocese of Miri Catholic Kindergarten Combined Graduation 2024 was a joyous celebration as 102 young graduates from Tadika St Joseph, Tadika Sri Cahaya, and Tadika Santo Dominic marked the completion of their early childhood education.
The event was officiated by Bishop Richard Ng, who delivered an inspiring message on the importance of a strong religious upbringing. He emphasised that communication with a child should begin as early as three months in the mother’s womb and should remain open and active throughout the child’s life. He also highlighted the vital role of families, Sunday schools, and Church-run kindergartens in fostering faith-based education and instilling strong moral values in children. Bishop Richard Ng closed his speech with a prayer.
The Miri Diocese Kindergarten Board of Management was represented by Mdm Susan Soh and Mdm Clare Wong. In her speech, Madam Susan Soh reinforced the importance of the family as the child’s first school and encouraged parents to collaborate with the school, Church, and community to ensure a continuous and holistic child development. She stressed the necessity of a nurturing home and community environment to provide children with the best possible start in life.
Ms Agatha, Headmistress of Tadika Santo Dominic, spoke about the trilingual education offered by the kindergarten, which prepares children for SJKC and SK primary schools. Meanwhile, Ms Amy from Tadika St Joseph highlighted the need for strong parental collaboration in addressing children’s learning challenges and Ms Magdalene from Tadika Sri Cahaya reminded parents that registration for the 2025 intake is open until March.
The celebration was filled with heartwarming performances, as the graduating children, dressed in colourful costumes, delighted their parents with lively dances and songs. The event concluded on a poignant note with a combined choir performance by the graduating students of all three kindergartens, delivering a moving rendition of “We Are the World”. This symbolic performance emphasised the values of unity, love, and hope for the future.
It was more than just a graduation ceremony—it was a celebration of faith, family, and education, reaffirming the Church’s role in nurturing young minds for a brighter future.
