SANDAKAN: Vision School Sandakan marked a significant milestone at the prestigious Borneo International Invention Creativity Competition (BIICC) 2025, held recently in Kuching, Sarawak.
This highly competitive event attracted over 650 participants from 15 countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, UAE, Turkmenistan, and Egypt, making it one of Southeast Asia’s premier innovation platforms.
In April, school principal Desmond Chong Wei Ket introduced the opportunity to the school community. With strong support from teachers and parents, and led by Madam Emily, the school submitted a total of 14 projects—12 in the secondary school category, 1 in the primary school category, and 1 in the teacher category.
Against all odds, Vision School emerged with 5 gold, 2 silver, 7 bronze medals, Top 1 Most Participants Award and Best Disciplined Contingent Award.
While the primary aim was to gain experience and exposure, the achievements far exceeded expectations. Students devoted weeks to refining their ideas, writing abstracts, and designing A0-sized posters—many for the first time. They stayed after school hours to draft scripts, rehearse their presentations, and improve their communication and teamwork skills.
“At Vision School Sandakan, our small size is our strength,” said teacher Emily Chong. “Every student is given the opportunity to participate, to learn, and to shine.”
Beyond medals, the experience proved invaluable in shaping students into confident young innovators. From ideation to presenting before international judges, the journey nurtured character, critical thinking, and creativity.
During the competition, Vision School Sandakan was also honoured with the prestigious Fujairah Science Club Special Award.
This international recognition was awarded for the school’s outstanding and distinguished performance during the competition, where students showcased their teamwork, creativity, and innovation across multiple project entries.
The award, presented by Dr. Saif AlMoaili, manager of the Fujairah Science Club (UAE), is a testament to the dedication, discipline, and excellence demonstrated by the students and educators of Vision School on the global stage.
Vision School was also honoured as the Best Disciplined Contingent, a testament to the school’s commitment to holistic education.
“We believe in Character Above Academics,” said Chong. “If a child’s character is well-formed, academic success will follow naturally.”
As Vision School returned home to Sandakan, the medals were celebrated—but the real triumph lies in the growth, confidence, and determination now deeply rooted in every student who stood on that international stage. – James Leong
