A TOTAL of 137 students and 21 educators from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, China, and Taiwan are currently participating in the International Cultural Exchange Programme (ICEP) 2025, hosted by Chung Ling High School (CLHS) in Penang.
Apart from the host school, other participating institutions include Beijing National Day School, He Shan Middle School, the High School Affiliated to Fudan University (all China), Nanshan High School, Taipei Municipal Lishan High School (Taiwan), Mahidol Wittayanusorn School (Thailand), Nanyang Girls’ High School (Singapore), Philippine Science High School (the Philippines), Krian National Secondary School and St Teresa School (Malaysia).
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the opening ceremony at the school’s hall today, commended CLHS’s leadership, dedicated educators, alumni and parents for championing this meaningful programme year after year.
“Since its inception in 2010, ICEP has grown into a remarkable platform that celebrates the spirit of youth, the richness of cultures, and the power of dialogue.
“ICEP offers a unique opportunity to build friendships, discover perspectives, and engage in intercultural learning that transcends textbooks,” Chow said in his speech.
The programme, themed “Venture the Skies”, features heritage walks, cultural showcases, communication workshops, and the iconic Cultural Night.
He said the ICEP is more than just experiential learning.
“It is a blueprint for nurturing empathy, curiosity, and collaboration in a diverse world – traits that are essential in shaping a future generation that can lead with both heart and mind,” Chow said.
He added that the state government is committed to empowering people and strengthening the economy by transforming education from the ground up. Initiatives such as the Penang STEM Hub, Coding@Schools, and the Penang Future Foundation demonstrate the state’s commitment to equipping the next generation with future-ready skills.
Chow also highlighted that the state and country are tremendously honoured that Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)’s recent achievement in rising to 14th place globally in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025, topping Malaysian universities in sustainability and contributions to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Building on that momentum, he said Penang is boldly positioning itself to become ASEAN’s education hub.
Chow urged all participants to embrace this experience with open hearts and curious minds.
“Ask questions. Share your stories. Celebrate your differences and discover your similarities. You are not just delegates of your schools or countries – you are agents of change. Each of you carries the potential to be an architect of a more connected, compassionate, and creative world.
“Let this programme mark the beginning of not just individual journeys, but collective movement – a movement toward a future where diversity is our strength, unity is our compass, and understanding is our legacy.”
Chow also praised the CLHS Chinese Orchestra for their “awesome” performance of Macau Capriccio during the ceremony.
Chung Ling Board of Governors chairman Datuk Seri Koay Hean Eng expressed hope that participants would gain insights into one another’s cultures and appreciate that there is more than one approach to solving problems.
“We are excited to offer everyone new cultural experiences through ICEP this year. As we know, the world is one happy family when we understand and learn to work with one another. There is truly unity in diversity. With the theme ‘Venture the Skies’, we are hopeful that participants will be enriched with knowledge beyond what they can learn at home,” he said.
“Challenges and hurdles come in many shapes and forms. In the face of uncertainty, we must prepare the younger generation with the ability to overcome future obstacles. We want participants to think outside the box, step out of their comfort zones, and pursue success with courage. As they progress in this world, the potential is endless, and opportunities are vast – the sky is the limit for them.”
Nanyang Girls’ High School teacher-in-charge Lena Teo Hui Lin described ICEP 2025 as a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about each other’s cultures and traditions.
“This is the first time Nanyang Girls’ High School is participating in the programme. We’ve taken part in exchange programmes in China and Taiwan before.
“ICEP 2025 is an excellent opportunity for our five girls to learn more about our closest neighbour, as well as others from this region. This is not just a one-day programme – it spans five days, and I believe the participants will have an enriching experience,” Teo said.
Also present at the ceremony were Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, Chung Ling Alumni Association chairman Datuk P’ng Lai Heng, Chung Ling High School acting principal Khor Chin Soon and Chung Ling High School Teacher and Parents Association chairman and ICEP 2025 chairman Sim Wei Hoe.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Alissala Thian