USM PENANG, 1 June 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Kung Fu Club recently hosted its highly anticipated 45th Kung Fu Night, a spectacular showcase of martial arts prowess, discipline, and rich cultural traditions.

The event, held on 10 May at Dewan Tuanku Syed Putra (DTSP), brought together students, alumni, and kung fu enthusiasts for an evening filled with dynamic performances, historical reflections, and unwavering passion for the art of self-defense.

Dr. Lim Chee Ann, representing the USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student Development Affairs and Alumni, graced the event and officiated the ceremony.

In his officiating speech, Lim praised the USM Kung Fu Club for its decades-long dedication to promoting martial arts.

He commended the club for organising annual events such as Kung Fu Night, which showcases various forms of Chinese martial arts, including Shaolin, Tai Chi, Wushu, Qi Gong, and traditional weapon demonstrations.

“I am well pleased to note that the Kung Fu Night has been a signature event at USM for over 48 years, drawing large audiences and fostering a strong sense of discipline, teamwork, and cultural exchange,” he said.  

Lim also emphasised the significance of martial arts in fostering discipline, resilience, and cultural appreciation.

“Kung Fu is more than just combat—it embodies philosophy, perseverance, and respect, values that align well with USM’s commitment to holistic education.

“It has also served as a platform for students to develop leadership skills, organise large-scale events, and engage with the broader community.

“As such, the University has consistently supported the club’s efforts to preserve and celebrate martial arts, encouraging students to balance academic success with extracurricular activities, and the University will continue to do so in the years to come,” he added.

Also present were Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai; and Khor Hun Chong, the representative of Dato’ H'ng Ban Choon, Chairman of the Penang Federation of Wushu, Lion and Dragon Dance Associations.

Joining them were the USM Kung Fu Club former Advisor, Professor Emeritus Dr. Yuen Kah Hay; and the current Club Advisor, Associate Professor Dr. Ng Theam Foo.

Wong, a proud USM alumnus, expressed his deep sense of pride and congratulated the USM Kung Fu Club for their unwavering dedication to preserving this cultural heritage since 1976, an illustrious legacy that has endured for 49 years.

Project Director, Tan Xin Hui took the opportunity to express her heartfelt gratitude to the grandmasters and coaches who have generously dedicated their time and effort to train and guide the club members.

She hopes this achievement will continue to inspire others to practice and promote martial arts.

She added, “The project has provided participants with valuable knowledge and experience while contributing significantly to their personal development, shaping them into individuals who embody the H.E.B.A.T values: Holistic, Entrepreneurial, Balanced, Articulate, and Thinking in all aspects of life.”

As the curtains closed, the spirit of martial arts continued to ignite inspiration, encouraging students to carry forward the legacy of kung fu with pride and dedication.

Text: Rebecal Armugam, Internship Student of Media & Public Relations Centre (MPRC), USM and Tan Ewe Hoe/Photos: Media and Publications Unit, BHEPA, USM