By St Joseph’s Family of Schools
KUCHING — In a celebration of faith, knowledge, and unity, the 27th SPM Bible Knowledge Quiz was held on 12 August 2023. The event, organised by the Federation of Christian Mission Schools in Malaysia, is an exceptional platform for students to showcase their understanding of the Bible and its significance across various aspects of life.
This year’s quiz witnessed a record-breaking participation of 138 teams in the Quarter Finals Quiz, with a large showing from Sabah and Sarawak. This is a testament to the growing interest in delving deeper into the spiritual and historical wisdom enshrined in the Bible. From this pool, the top 10 teams from across Malaysia progressed to the semi-finals, where the online competition reached its apex.
Among the standout achievers were the three teams hailing from St Joseph’s Private Secondary School, Kuching (SJPSS). The school accomplished an extraordinary achievement, clinching the positions of Champion, First Runner-Up, and Third Runner-Up in a display of excellence. This triumph further enriches SJPSS’s legacy, extending their championship run since 2021.
Thomas Huo Kok Sen, the Chairman of the Federation of Christian Mission Schools Malaysia, emphasised the significance of the Bible not only in theology but also in philosophy, history, and literature. He highlighted that familiarity with the Bible can enrich academic studies and intellectual pursuits. In the Malaysian context, it provides students with an opportunity to engage with another subject of study, examined at the SPM level. Moreover, understanding the Bible is crucial for interfaith dialogue and promoting religious tolerance. It allows individuals to engage in meaningful conversations and discussions with people from different religious backgrounds. This has been proven by many leaders in our country who have been educated in a Christian mission school environment, he added.
Lim Hui Ying, the Deputy Minister of Education Malaysia, took the opportunity to commend the Federation of Christian Mission Schools Malaysia for their unwavering commitment to upholding the ethos, character, and tradition of mission schools. These institutions, she noted, play a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity of the SPM Bible Knowledge paper and associated quizzes, providing a holistic education for Christian students. The contributions of mission schools extend beyond knowledge acquisition; they foster a shared commitment to learning, personal growth, and peaceful coexistence in Malaysia’s multicultural society.
Testimonies from the students themselves echo the impact of the quiz on their spiritual growth and academic journey. Andrea Wong, a participant from the Third Runner-Up team, emphasised the teamwork-based nature of the competition, appreciating the camaraderie and moral support from her partner. Elina Chua, a member of the Champion team, highlighted the profound significance of understanding the Bible’s words and connecting with its messages. Filicia Wong, a member of the First Runner-Up team, conveyed the rollercoaster of emotions experienced during the competition, underscoring the significance of delving into the Bible’s intricate details. Daphne Chen, another First Runner-Up participant, found the preparation process challenging yet rewarding, culminating in a fulfilling experience. Jeslyn Tiong, a member of the Third Runner-Up team, underlined the competition’s role in fostering growth, both spiritually and intellectually.
Fr Stanley Goh, SJ, Acting Principal of St Joseph’s Private Secondary School, congratulated the teams on their outstanding performance while also paying tribute to the Bible Knowledge and Religious Education teachers of the school: “The love of Scripture does not happen automatically and it’s the inspiration and encouragement of our dedicated teachers that nurtured this love and allowed it to blossom. The achievements of the students are a testament to their hard work and talents as well as the fruits of the school’s commitment to the Gospel values and to faith formation.”
The 27th SPM Bible Knowledge Quiz stands as a beacon of unity, promoting interfaith dialogue, and acknowledging the profound impact of the Bible across various disciplines. With the dedication of both students and educators, this event continues to shape minds and hearts, fostering a harmonious coexistence in Malaysia’s diverse cultural tapestry.
