SMK Merapok Student Exceeds Targets To Emerge As STPM High Achiever

KUCHING, June 18 (Bernama) -- A student from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Merapok in Lawas has exceeded her expectations, emerging as a top Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) performer after initially aiming for a more modest outcome.

Fredoline Rinai Felix Den, 20, said she had set a modest target of a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of around 3.50, believing that attaining a perfect score would be difficult. The 4.0 CGPA she received today, however, showed that perseverance can yield exceptional results.

“To be honest, I did not expect such a result. My initial target was a CGPA of about 3.50, as I knew the STPM examination would be a tough journey.

“There were moments when I felt overwhelmed and close to giving up, but the constant support and encouragement from my family and friends convinced me that I was capable of succeeding,” she told Bernama after the release of the 2025 STPM results for Sarawak at SMK Tun Abang Haji Openg here today.

Fredoline credited her mother and teachers for their continuous encouragement, which helped her stay motivated even under pressure and self-doubt.

Meanwhile, Jennifer Beru, 51, said her daughter’s achievement was beyond anything she could have hoped for and brought her immense pride and gratitude.

“More than happiness, what I feel is gratitude. I am thankful to God that my daughter's dedication and perseverance have finally paid off,” she said, adding that her family has long upheld the value of education, viewing it as the key to creating better opportunities for the future.

“Her older sisters have also performed well academically, and we have always believed that consistent effort will lead to good outcomes. I always try to motivate and support her, as that is the most important thing,” she said.

The mother of five said her daughter’s achievement demonstrates that excellence is not solely the result of intelligence, but also discipline, strong family support and a respect for knowledge.

-- BERNAMA