We were honoured to have Mr Simon Fellows, the Acting Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia, deliver an insightful keynote address. This was followed by captivating performances from both staff and students alike, including the highly energetic Scottish Reel, the expressive and powerful Haka, an amazing rendition of the traditional Wau Bulan by the school choir and a fun teachers’ performance that showcased some fancy footwork accompanied by music from different parts of the world. The flag parade, an annual symbolic tradition, was, as always, a key highlight of International Day and it was truly amazing to see our student body proudly represent 40 different countries .

As part of the day’s celebrations, students also went on a trip around the world as they engaged with different cultural activities, which allowed them to experience cuisine, sports, dance and art from an array of different nations. The Food Fair, organised and facilitated by the PTC, was an especially popular stop on the day’s voyage, offering all in attendance mouth-watering opportunities to sample and savour culinary delights from around the globe.

International Day has always held a special place in AISM hearts and it is a much anticipated day on the school calendar. This year was no exception. Our community's strength lies in our unity and cohesion, which was beautifully demonstrated today as all members of the AISM family came together with a shared vision to celebrate our diversity and foster authentic intercultural connections.

International Day at AISM has always been more than just a celebration; it is a testament to our commitment to fostering empathy, understanding, appreciation and respect for each other’s backgrounds and experiences. It’s a meaningful reminder that the beauty of the world truly lies in the diversity of its people.

I will conclude with two paragraphs from my welcoming speech as part of opening ceremony today:

International Day is about so much more than those things that make us different. It’s also about what brings us together. There’s an old Kenyan proverb that I’ve always loved - ‘sticks in a bundle are unbreakable’. One twig, however beautiful, is easily snapped! But bring the sticks together, 1 stick, 2 sticks, 3 sticks… 40 sticks - and now you have something pretty much unbreakable! Today we celebrate the fact that as a community we are so much more than the sum of our parts. Today we celebrate unity in diversity.

And what is it that brings us together at AISM? I believe it is our shared values that make us unique. We are a kind school. We treat everyone we meet with dignity and respect, whatever their position in life. We care for ourselves, we care for others, we care for our world. We delight in the successes and achievements of our friends. We listen to each other. We celebrate the amazing opportunity we have here to think, to learn, and to excel. We are committed to our Australian values, such as inclusion, mateship, integrity, and a fair go for all. We do our best to find joy in everything we do!

Congratulations to all on the success of the 2023 International Day. I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to all those involved in making today the wonderful day that it was, and wish you an enjoyable and relaxing school holiday!