Day 7 - Curriculum discussions and a river cruise

This morning we met with key personnel in the school to discuss ideas for further development of our Sister School program.  Mdm, Fauziah stated that it is critical that we can develop our program so that it is embedded in our schools and continue regardless of possible changes in staff in both schools. We would like to look at common projects that can focus on innovation, building shared pedagogy and possibly participating in international competitions.

We also wish to continue with an environmental focus to extend projects such as the "Green Box" and mudballs, as well as sponsorship of orangutan and koalas. Sharing information on common threats or issues in the environment such as bush / forest fires and recycling projects were other suggestions.  Due to Dannielle's expertise as a chef and hospitality teacher and the interest that created amongst the SMKDPM students, a recipe blog has also been suggested.

Our next major focus will also be a visit to TSC by Mr Peck Cheng Yeo. Details of his visit in February 2015 were discussed.

Next we visited the Sabah State Museum and the Balai Seni Lukis (Art Gallery)


After lunch we headed off with our hosts and several other staff to Kota Belud about 100 kms from Kota Kinabalu to look for the proboscis monkeys. These monkeys are one of the most endangered species of primates. They are distinguished by their large protruding nose. They can be found among the mangrove trees foraging, resting and feeding. They are the most aquatic of the primates and even have webbed feet.

Following this cruise down the river we set off to another location about 15 minutes drive away on Sungai Nanamun. At nightfall we set off on another boat to see the thousands of fireflies among the trees. They were attracted towards the boat by the guides flashing a greenish light. At the end of this cruise, after a long but enjoyable day with enthusiastic colleagues, we headed back to Penampang for our last night with our hosts.