On Monday, May 27, 2019, ISKL held an official Scholarship Award Ceremony to present the 2019-2021 International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) Scholarship to Malaysian students, Ms. Elayna Mohamed Emery and Mr. Hsien Rong Evan Loo. The scholarship recipients, their families, current scholars and ISKL Administration were honored to be joined at the ceremony by Tuan Haji Sofian Bin Tajul Arus, an official from the Ministry of Education Malaysia.
ISKL Admissions Director, Ms. Julia Love said, “Every year, the standard of application is extremely high and this year was no exception. We received applications from highly qualified candidates and I congratulate Elayna and Evan on their success. As well as outstanding academic results, they both have a broad range of talents and passions, from track and field through to chess and debate. This well-rounded approach to student life typifies ISKL’s educational philosophy and our mission to support students to become socially responsible global citizens”.
During the Ceremony, current and graduating IB scholars shared their ISKL experience with Elayna and Evan:
Nicole Phung Weng Kay (Class of 2019)
Taking the IB at ISKL is a life-changing experience and, in addition to the academic program and supportive teaching environment, I have benefited from getting involved in debate, Ted-Ed, National Honor Society and ISKL’s Fem Club. Participating in co-curricular and service learning has broadened my outlook and also helped develop my leadership skills. I particularly value the focus the school places on developing important skills such as critical thinking and collaboration which are so important for life beyond school”.
Nicole has just completed the IBDP and is planning to study law in the United Kingdom. She has received conditional acceptance from University College London, University of Bristol, University of Manchester, and University of Hong Kong.
Rebecca Chan (Class of 2020)
The IB Diploma is a challenge to be relished! It’s an opportunity to try things out, and explore new subjects in a supportive environment. The teachers are always there for you and you can rely on them to help you to understand. Before I started the IB I thought I knew what I wanted to pursue in the future, but now, I’ve been exposed to so much and there are so many more doors open to me. I have really enjoyed my involvement in theatre and music here and have learned so much through these experiences. I’ve been involved in Tri-M and Thespians Society, represented ISKL at the IASAS Cultural Convention in Bangkok, and also led the Chinese drumming team. It’s been an incredible experience and I encourage next year’s scholars to be flexible and keep their options open.
Ryan Lim (Class of 2020)
The great thing about the IB scholarship at ISKL is that there are just so many avenues to explore. My philosophy has been to take chances and get involved in anything and everything. I have joined the Student Leadership Team, participated in Prom Committee which planned prom for 200 students and IASAS Cultural Convention for Debate and Forensics in which I was awarded fourth best speaker of IASAS. I am targeting a double gold goal for next year and may even take up volleyball. One of the best experiences this year was the Global Action Program (GAP) trip to China – it was an amazing learning experience and a wonderful opportunity to participate in active community service. It was certainly eye-opening to experience a lifestyle detached from all privileges, and to be able to develop strong bonds of friendship through that journey. Overall, the opportunities in ISKL are almost limitless and they are sure to mold you into a tougher, wiser person equipped with survival and leadership traits that are vital. My advice to our new scholars is to keep exploring and be open to new challenges by stepping out of your comfort zone!
About IB Diploma Scholarship
ISKL has awarded more than 30 IB Diploma Scholarships to Malaysian SPM leavers since the program first began in 2002. In keeping with ISKL’s focus on holistic education, applications are based on academic record, co-curricular involvement and commitment to community service with shortlisted applicants undertaking an entrance exam and panel interview. Both scholarship recipients expressed their excitement about joining ISKL and embarking on the world-renowned International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The IBDP is a challenging pre-university curriculum that leads to a qualification recognized by tertiary institutions worldwide. ISKL is the longest-running IB World School in Malaysia and, since authorized to run the IBDP in 1989, over 1,300 students have earned the IB Diploma with a 27-year pass rate of 96.4%.
About Ms. Julia Love
Julia Love has been the Director of Admissions at The International School of Kuala Lumpur since 2012. With over 20 years of experience in Boarding, Primary, Secondary, and international schools in the US and UK, Julia is passionate about ensuring that school placement meets the requirements of every child. Additionally, having spent a significant portion of her childhood overseas attending British, German, and international schools, Julia understands first-hand the complex transitional needs of children during relocation. Julia holds a B.A. in Sociology and Education.
