Kota Kinabalu: Kinabalu International School (KIS) celebrated a proud milestone at the Malaysian TVET & Education Awards 2025, earning the title of Malaysia’s Most Progressive International School.
Founded in 1973, KIS is a British-style international school offering Cambridge IGCSE and A Level programmes. As a non-profit institution, all resources are reinvested into providing a world-class, values-driven education.
Over the decades, KIS has produced graduates who have gone on to attend top universities including Oxford, Stanford, and many more.
Its alumni include prominent leaders such as Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Sabah’s own Datuk James Wong, alongside generations of students who have achieved Top in the World and Top in Malaysia awards in Cambridge examinations.
From its early days with just over 100 students, KIS has grown to more than 440 learners from over 20 nationalities.
It is also the only CIS-accredited (Council of International Schools) institution in Borneo and a proud founding member of FOBISIA (Federation of British International Schools in Asia).
In recent years, KIS has accelerated its enrolment and development—enhancing curriculum, facilities, and community initiatives.
Exciting plans are also underway for further upgrades, including the addition of a swimming pool and the enhancement of its basketball courts, ensuring an exceptional environment for both academics and extracurricular growth.
Adding to the celebrations, Principal Sam Gipson received the award for Exemplary Educational Leadership, recognising his role in shaping the school’s vision and progress.
Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud presented the awards in Kuala Lumpur.
“This award reflects the passion and hard work of our entire KIS family. It motivates us to keep pushing boundaries for the benefit of our students and community,” said Gipson who is currently the Chairman of AIMS (Association of International Schools Malaysia).
This achievement is not only a milestone for KIS, but also a proud moment for education in Sabah—showing how a community-rooted, non-profit school in Borneo can nurture global citizens and set international standards.
