KENINGAU: 18 July 2026 – A student from Keningau Vocational College (KV Keningau), Marq Jayson Michael, 18, has brought pride to Sabah after being selected to represent Malaysia in the Sports Visitor Programme in Boston, United States, which runs from 10 to 25 July 2026.
Marq is among four Malaysian representatives taking part in the fully-funded programme sponsored by the US Government through the US Department of State.
In addition to Malaysia, the programme also includes delegations from Germany, Colombia, Turkmenistan, Hong Kong and Kenya.
Marq’s selection followed his success in a screening process held at KV Keningau, which was chosen by the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur to nominate one representative based on the institution’s excellence in sports, English language, academics and community projects.
The Culinary Arts student is now taking part in a two-week programme based at Boston University, which includes lectures on sports, training and matches in football and volleyball, as well as cultural visits to give participants exposure to the country’s society and systems.
The programme is part of the Freedom 250 campaign, marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
According to Marq, the opportunity was a deeply meaningful experience, as he is not only carrying the name of Malaysia but also Sabah and his vocational college under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Division (BPLTV) of the Ministry of Education Malaysia (KPM).
“I feel very fortunate to have been selected for this programme. What makes it even more special is that I am not only representing Malaysia, but also carrying the name of Sabah and Keningau Vocational College on the international stage,” he said.
Marq is expected to arrive back in Malaysia on 27 July after completing the programme.
Meanwhile, KV Keningau Director, Lumang anak Lang, said Marq’s success proves that vocational college students are capable of competing and shining on the international stage.
“This achievement symbolises how vocational college students can go far across the globe, and it demonstrates that education at vocational colleges equips students well to face the wider world,” he said.
