SMK Merbau’s Theodora Pei honoured with royal audience for global English excellence

MIRI (Jan 29): Outstanding student Theodora Pei Em Huei from SMK Merbau was among 30 exceptional Malaysian students who were granted a prestigious royal audience with Raja Permaisuri Agong Raja Zarith Sofiah at Istana Negara.

Her Majesty graciously received the specially selected delegation of students from across the country in recognition of their remarkable achievements at the international level.

During the ceremony, Theodora was presented with a certificate bearing the royal seal and Her Majesty’s signature, which read: “Congratulations on your distinguished achievement at international level. May you continue to strive for excellence in all your future endeavours.”

The Form 5 student earned this honour after placing in the top five at the 13th Hippo International English Language Olympiad 2025, a prestigious global competition for students aged 6-19 that tests mastery in reading, writing, listening and speaking.

The World Finals were held in Assisi, Italy, from Sept 29 to Oct 2, 2025.

Her impressive track record also includes winning the school’s Role Model Student 2025 Award and Co-curricular Star 2025 Award last year.

The science stream student is currently awaiting her SPM results.

“Meeting the Queen was genuinely so surreal and unforgettable! I feel truly honoured and blessed to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Theodora told The Borneo Post.

Meanwhile, SMK Merbau principal Amanda Chong expressed overwhelming joy at the royal privilege bestowed upon her student, describing it as unprecedented recognition for the school.

“This is a first for the school and an off-the-chart recognition that will serve to inspire both the school and students to excel,” she said.

The school’s Facebook page echoed the excitement, stating: “With great gratitude and pride, our Merbau student Theodora Pui has been summoned to appear before Her Majesty the Queen for her international excellence.

“This is no ordinary ceremony. This is a special invitation from the Palace—the first time it has been held — and only 30 selected students from all over Malaysia have received this high honour.”

Chong emphasised the rarity of such an opportunity, calling it a historic milestone for SMK Merbau.

“It is national recognition and a historic moment for SMK Merbau. We are very proud of you, Theodora.

“Your success not only brings glory to the school but also serves as an inspiration to all Merbau students that consistent effort, high discipline and the courage to dream big can bring someone to the highest stage of the country,” she said, thanking the dedicated teachers whose commitment, patience and passion contributed to the achievement.

“This success is the result of a joint effort. Keep moving forward with confidence, and to the other Merbau children — believe that every dream may come true if you never stop trying.”