At Sri KDU National Secondary Kota Damansara, every student is encouraged to dream big and reach for the stars. One of the school’s brightest stars, Chin Shen Li, has done just that, earning the prestigious Sydney International Student Award from the University of Sydney, Australia. Her remarkable journey is a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and the strong foundation provided by Sri KDU.
Shen Li’s journey began with a strong foundation at Sri KDU, where she achieved stellar academic results. She was awarded the PBS Star Award for her 8As in the PT3 examination and the SPM Star Award for securing an impressive 10As in her SPM finals. Reflecting on her time at Sri KDU, Shen Li shared, “The hands-on science experiments and inquiry-based learning at Sri KDU sparked my curiosity and laid the groundwork for my love of STEM.”
Her father, Mr. Chin Sing Choy, highlighted the school’s pivotal role in her achievements, saying, “Sri KDU’s nurturing environment and emphasis on holistic development gave Shen Li the confidence and skills to tackle challenges head-on. Her achievements are a testament to the school’s dedication to student success.”
But Shen Li’s talents didn’t stop at academics. She also stormed on the dance floor, earning accolades at prestigious dance competitions such as the Malaysia WDSF Open Dancesport Championship and the KLDSA Malaysia Open Dancesport Championship. Her ability to balance her studies with her passion for the arts reflects her determination and exceptional time management. “Dance taught me resilience and teamwork, skills that complement my academic pursuits,” Shen Li explained. She also demonstrated culinary flair by securing second place in the Culinary Competition under the Paramount Championship.
Sri KDU’s dedication to holistic education played a pivotal role in shaping Shen Li’s future. The school’s nurturing environment and emphasis on character development prepared her for challenges beyond school. Mr. Chin proudly recalled, “Shen Li’s achievements during the COVID-19 pandemic, including her decision to take on an additional subject for SPM, were a reflection of her resilience and the school’s encouragement to push boundaries.”
Her achievements highlight Sri KDU’s ability to unlock students’ potential and prepare them for future challenges. Ms. Lili Mariah, Principal of Sri KDU National Secondary School, Kota Damansara shared her pride, saying, “Students like Shen Li are a testament to the transformative power of education. Her journey exemplifies how a balanced approach to nurturing academic excellence and personal interests can unlock limitless potential. At Sri KDU, we are committed to empowering our students to dream boldly and achieve their goals, and it fills us with immense pride to witness them shaping their futures and inspiring others along the way.” By fostering a support and innovative learning environment, Sri KDU empowers students to thrive and achieve their dreams.
Shen Li’s journey from Sri KDU to the University of Sydney serves as a beacon of inspiration for current and aspiring students. To those following in her footsteps, Shen Li offers these words: “Embrace curiosity and don’t fear making mistakes—they’re stepping stones to deeper understanding. Dive into activities that ignite your passion, believe in your potential, and persevere through challenges. The future is yours to shape.”
At Sri KDU, students are not just prepared for exams; they are equipped with the skills, confidence, and mindset to excel in every aspect of life. Shen Li’s story is proof that with the right foundation, the possibilities are endless.
The team at Sri KDU wishes Shen Li all the best as she pursues a double degree in Bachelor of Science, majoring in Food Science and Biochemistry, at the University of Sydney, Australia.