Beyond the baton: The life and legacy of CHMS Miri’s Chin Khi

Chin Khi, the long-standing conductor and mentor of the Chung Hua Middle School (CHMS) Miri marching band, was born in Kuching on June 20, 1967. As the eldest son of a traditional goldsmith, Chin's family relocated frequently due to his father's work. They moved to Brunei, Lawas, and back to Brunei before Chin returned to Kuching at age 8 to live with his parents.

Chin's mother, Chia Pei Ling, was 16 years old when she gave birth to him. Chin's upbringing was shaped by his grandmother's devout Buddhist faith, who exposed him to Buddhist teachings from a young age. Chin's early exposure to various religious teachings, including Bible lessons at a local church, contributed to his deep understanding of Chinese culture and customs.

After completing his secondary education in Kuching, Chin moved to Lawas and later returned to Brunei to teach Chinese Language and learn various subjects at the Sarawak Teachers College (now Institute of Teachers Education). It was during this time that he met his future wife, Leong Yong Wan, at the college in 1993. Together, they have two daughters and two sons.

In 2003, Chin began his teaching career in primary schools in Miri, eventually transitioning to the CHMS Miri marching band in 2005. The band has achieved numerous accolades, including winning the overall champion and Best Choreography Award at the Giulianova International Music Festival in Italy in 2007. Chin's dedication to the band and his students has been a driving force behind their success, earning him the respect and admiration of many.