RCKKP Launches English Corner at SMK Benoni to Promote Literacy and Lifelong Learning
- nabalunews
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
30 July 2025
PAPAR: The Rotary Club of Kota Kinabalu Pearl (RCKK) officially launched the English Corner at SMK Benoni marking a significant milestone under its flagship programme, Project REAL (Rural-Focused English for All).
The launch was officiated by Club President, Datin Dr Jeanette Tambakau, who praised SMK Benoni Principal, Tuan Haji Ikhbal Khan, for his visionary leadership in initiating the project.
“The creation of the English Corner is truly an inspired idea by Mr Ikhbal. We commend his unwavering commitment to nurturing a reading culture and improving English proficiency among students,” said Dr Jeanette.
To support the initiative, the Club donated more than 500 English storybooks and 350 bilingual dictionaries, in recognition of Tuan Haji Ikhbal’s longstanding contributions to Project REAL—particularly during his tenure as Deputy Director of the Language Unit at the Sabah State Education Department.
Although originally focused on primary schools in rural areas, Project REAL is now being extended to secondary schools.
“Language learning is a lifelong journey. We are heartened by SMK Benoni’s proactive efforts to continue this journey beyond the primary level,” Dr Jeanette added.
A special tribute was paid to Project Chair, Rotarian Tulip Noorazyze for her unwavering leadership in expanding Project REAL across Sabah.
“Tulip has been the heartbeat of this programme , coordinating visits, distributing resources, and building strong ties with local education offices. Her dedication has had a profound and lasting impact,” said Dr Jeanette.
Tulip is supported by a committed team known as the REAL Team, which includes Vice President Datuk Eliza Goh, Immediate Past President Puan Hajah Chendramata Hj Sinteh, Datin Phyllis Lo, Caroline Paxton, Dr Julia Ongkili, Datin Rocy Chong, and Soo Yuen Mee. Each of these women has brought her own strengths and passion to the initiative, helping transform Project REAL into a powerful force for change in school communities.
“We thank them for their dedication and spirit of service above self,” she added.
Established in 2016 by Datuk Noni Said, Project REAL has grown tremendously with the continued support of the Sabah State Education Department. Over the past nine years, it has reached 51 schools across 14 districts, including Kota Belud, Papar, Kiulu, Inanam, Tuaran, Kota Marudu, Sipitang, Pitas, Kudat, Tenom, Kuala Penyu, Keningau, Ranau, and Beaufort.
Beyond setting up English Corners, the project also organises inter-school competitions in poetry writing, speech, and storytelling, as well as Teachers’ Training Workshops aimed at enhancing classroom instruction. SMK Benoni has also been invited to consider hosting future Project REAL activities.
“Our goal is to empower young people through the English language, giving them access to a world of knowledge and opportunities. Reading remains one of the most effective ways to master a language and it is a habit worth nurturing from an early age.”
She concluded by encouraging students to make full use of the new English Corner:
“Dream big, study hard, and stay curious. Let this English Corner be your gateway to a brighter future.”
Now in its 10th year, the Rotary Club of Kota Kinabalu Pearl remains steadfast in its mission to promote literacy, youth development, and educational progress throughout Sabah.
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