USM PENANG, 11 May 2026 - The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Kung Fu Club proved its strength as a dynamic student organisation when it successfully celebrated the 50th anniversary of its establishment together with the 46th ‘Kung Fu Night’ at Dewan Tuanku Syed Putra (DTSP) here yesterday.

The grand event was attended by nearly 1,200 spectators from various walks of life, demonstrating that martial arts are not merely combat techniques, but a philosophy of life that balances gentleness and strength.

With the theme "Inherited from Generation to Generation", this year's celebration emphasised the continuity of Kung Fu knowledge, values, and spirit, which remain alive and are passed on continuously from one generation to the next.

Honoured guest, the Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, who is also the State Assemblyman for Paya Terubong, YB Wong Hon Wai, expressed his admiration for the club's resilience.

"Enduring for five decades is not a short period. Over 50 years, this club has successfully produced many graduates who are now serving in various public sectors and industries. As the saying goes, 'one falls, another rises', yet the spirit left by the pioneers remains strong in the hearts of today's members," he said.

Wong also emphasised the importance of cultural interaction through martial arts.

He drew attention to international recognition such as Silat and Taiji, which have been inscribed as UNESCO heritage.

"In Malaysia, we have diversity. Silambam was recently recognised as a heritage of the state of Penang. Therefore, Kung Fu, Taiji, Silat, and Silambam can interact on the same stage. We need to learn from one another to build a harmonious society, like the saying, 'water becomes round because of the pipe, people become united because of consensus'," he added.

Meanwhile, USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student Development Affairs and Alumni, Professor Dr. Wan Ahmad Wan Jaafar Yahaya, described the 50-year achievement as proof of the discipline and high commitment of a student organisation.

"This 50th anniversary celebration is not merely a symbol of a club's success, but an emblem of dedication that has been passed down. This effort is in line with the saying 'where there is a will, there is a way', as the USM Kung Fu Club remains relevant in facing the challenges of the times," he said.

Project Director Lim Ther How also shared his pride in the club's long journey, which has not only produced agile individuals, but also shaped strong identity and sportsmanship among its members.

Also present to enliven the ceremony were USM Kung Fu Club Advisor, Associate Professor Dr. Ng Theam Foo; USM Kung Fu Club Patron, Emeritus Professor Dr. Yuen Kah Hay; President of the Penang Wushu, Lion Dance and Dragon Dance Association, Dato' H'ng Ban Choon; Grandmaster of the Ching Xing Sports and Cultural Centre, Master Kok Siew Hong; and other distinguished guests.

 

Original Text & Photo: BHEPA Media and Publication Unit, USM/Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin