On Monday, January 12, 2026, students across Sabah and Sarawak returned to school alongside their peers nationwide, marking the start of a new academic year under the reinstated January school calendar. The reopening of schools was accompanied by messages of encouragement from national and church leaders, affirming the importance of education as a foundation for character and lifelong service. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim welcomed students through a social media message, extending a special greeting to Year 1 pupils as they took their first steps into formal education. He also urged parents to support their children with prayer and by being positive role models at home.
Echoing similar sentiments, Malaysia Union Mission Education Director Golden Gadoh expressed his hope that the new school year would be a time of valuable growth. He stressed the significance of a comprehensive Adventist education, one that fosters spiritual growth, academic achievement, and responsible citizenship. This is especially true in Sabah and Sarawak, where schools continue to be instrumental in shaping the lives of young people.
This hopeful spirit was evident in Adventist classrooms and school grounds, despite weather-related challenges, including flooding, that impacted several schools in Sarawak and Sabah. Despite these disruptions, the new school year began with enthusiasm and purpose for Adventist schools in Sarawak. Pr. Terry Simon, Education Superintendent for the Adventist Church in Sarawak, reported that approximately 600 students have enrolled across Adventist schools in the state for the current academic year. “We urge our students and educators,” he said, “to love their school, show respect for each other, and be inspired by the knowledge gained, seeing it as light to overcome hurdles in life. Be bold, be wise, and be courageous as you pursue the dreams God has placed in your hearts.”
In Sabah, Sekolah Menengah Advent Tamparuli (SMAT) shared a series of warm “welcome back” posts on social media celebrating students’ first-day energy and the reopening of campus life after the holiday break. The posts featured photos and captions that captured smiling faces, lively greetings, and glimpses of day-one activities. This showcased the school’s comprehensive educational philosophy, which is grounded in faith, character development, and a sense of community. Sekolah Menengah Advent Tamparuli (SMAT), a Christian boarding and day school, operates under Seventh-day Adventist principles while also following Malaysia’s national curriculum. It is well regarded in the area for fostering both academic and spiritual growth among its students.
Likewise, the return to school at Sekolah Menengah Advent Goshen (SMAG) was met with visible excitement and anticipation. Students, their families, and teachers exchanged uplifting messages and shared first-day photos through school communications and social media. SMAG, known for its strong academic record and active community engagement, remains dedicated to integrating faith and education, preparing students for lives of meaningful service.
As Adventist schools in Sabah and Sarawak gear up for the 2026 academic year, MAUM President Pr. Abel Bana reiterated the Union’s dedication to Adventist education in East Malaysia. “Our schools are not just places of instruction,” he stated. “They’re environments where faith is nurtured, character is built, and young people are equipped to serve both God and their communities.” He added, “As we start this new school year, we offer prayers for God’s protection, wisdom, and guidance for every student, teacher, and school family.”
Reported by Hazel Wanda Ginajil-Gara, MAUM Communication Department
27, January 2025, Tuesday.