BINTULU: SMK Kuching High made a strong impression at the Kejohanan Tenis Majlis Sukan Sekolah Sarawak (MSSS) 2025, with 13-year-old student Ryoga Kho emerging as one of the standout performers by winning both the Boys Singles and Doubles Under-15 titles for MSSB Kuching team which took place in Bintulu from 10 to 15 August 2025.
According to a statement, Ryoga overcame older and more experienced players throughout the week to reach the singles final by competing in the Under-15 category for the first time.
There, he produced a commanding display to defeat defending champion Chin Yi Chung of Miri, winning 6-3, 6-2.
“Ryoga’s success continued in the doubles, where he partnered Ethan Law in a gripping final against the strong Miri pairing of Chin Yi Chung and Muhammad Nadhir. After dropping the first set in a tiebreak 6-7 (4), the Kuching duo fought back to level the match 6-4 before sealing victory in the deciding super tiebreak 10-4.
“It was also a positive outing for Kuching High in the girls’ category, with Iona Chang teaming up with teammate Serene Au to capture a bronze medal in the Girls Doubles Under-18 event for the Kuching team,” it said.
Ryoga’s achievements in Bintulu came just days after a strong showing, representing Sarawak at the Tennis Malaysia Junior Tour SportExcel 2025 Leg 4 in Melaka (5–9 August), where he partnered with Kuala Lumpur’s Oezil Ajib to win the Doubles Under-15 title.
“The players credited their success not only to their training and determination, but also to the support and opportunities provided by the school, which enabled them to compete at state level.
“They also acknowledged the encouragement given by Kuching High Principal, Jong Yian Chong, whose backing has been instrumental in motivating students,” the statement said.
These results mark a breakthrough for Kuching High, with the school earning its first medals at the state championship.
Ryoga’s victories, in particular, highlight the impact of the Persatuan Tenis Bumiputera Sarawak-MTS partnership training programme, which has strengthened his development. -UKASnews
