Charis International School vs Imperium International Secondary School
Charis International School and Imperium International Secondary School are both in Sabah. Both schools offer Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE programmes, and Charis International School also offers Cambridge (Primary). Published annual fees are MYR 15,000 - 39,600 at Charis International School and MYR 34,000 - 45,000 at Imperium International Secondary School, which puts Imperium International Secondary School roughly 45% higher. Charis International School takes pupils from 4 to 16, and Imperium International Secondary School from 12 to 18.
Charis International School is situated in Tawau, a coastal town in Sabah, East Malaysia. The school occupies four floors within Calvary Crown, a ten-story multipurpose building located in the heart of Tawau. The campus is approximately a 35-minute drive (30 km) from Tawau Airport, offering convenient access for both local and international families.
Location
Imperium International Secondary School is situated at No. 1, Lorong Wisma Dixon, Jalan Tuaran, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The school is located near the Likas area, providing convenient access to various parts of the city. Its central location ensures accessibility for families residing in and around Kota Kinabalu.
Stages
Stages
Charis International School follows the Cambridge International Curriculum. The structure includes: Kindergarten: Ages 4–6 Primary: Years 1–6 (Ages 6–11) Lower Secondary: Years 7–9 (Ages 12–14) Upper Secondary: Years 10–11 (Ages 15–16)
Stages
The school's curriculum is structured into Lower Secondary (Years 7–9) and Upper Secondary (Years 10–11), culminating in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations.
School type
School type
Charis International School is a co-educational and provides boarding facilities, known as "Charis Home," for outstation and international students. This boarding option is available to students from Year 7 onwards.
School type
Imperium International Secondary School is a co-educational day school and does not offer boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Charis International School does not explicitly mention dedicated programs or facilities for students with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) or Special Educational Needs (SEN) on its official website.
Additional learning support
The school provides counselling services and pastoral care to support students' mental and emotional wellbeing. However, there is no specific information available regarding support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
Charis International School is a private Malaysian institution and is not affiliated with any foreign government or international national system.
Country affiliation
Imperium International Secondary School is a Malaysian institution and does not have an affiliation with any other country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
Charis International School does not explicitly state any religious affiliation on its official website.
Religious affiliation
The school is secular and does not have any religious affiliation.
School day structure
School day structure
At Charis International School, the school day usually operates from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays, specific daily start and end times for classes are not detailed on the official website.
School day structure
The school operates from Monday to Friday, with classes commencing at 8:00 AM and concluding at 3:30 PM. This schedule includes designated breaks and lunchtime within the school day.
Bus service details
Bus service details
Charis International School does not list a dedicated school bus or coach service on its official website.
Bus service details
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Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
One-Time Payment Application Fee: MYR 200 (non-refundable), payable upon application. Enrollment Fee: MYR 2,000 (non-refundable) Capital Contribution: First child: MYR 5,000 Second child: MYR 4,000 Subsequent siblings: MYR 3,000 each Refundable Deposit: Equivalent to one term’s tuition fee, refundable with appropriate notice.
Annual Tuition Fees (Malaysians) Kindergarten (K1 & K2): MYR 14,400 Year 1: MYR 18,750 Year 2: MYR 19,320 Year 3: MYR 19,890 Year 4: MYR 20,460 Year 5: MYR 21,030 Year 6: MYR 21,600 Year 7: MYR 24,525 Year 8: MYR 25,950 Year 9: MYR 27,375 Year 10: MYR 30,300 Year 11: MYR 31,725
Annual Tuition Fees (non-Malaysians) Kindergarten (K1 & K2): MYR 15,000 Year 1: MYR 23,400 Year 2: MYR 24,120 Year 3: MYR 24,840 Year 4: MYR 25,560 Year 5: MYR 26,280 Year 6: MYR 27,000 Year 7: MYR 30,600 Year 8: MYR 32,400 Year 9: MYR 34,200 Year 10: MYR 37,800 Year 11: MYR 39,600
*This fee structure includes miscellaneous fees and meals (optional).
Payment Methods Fees can be paid through several methods: Cheques / Banker's Draft (in MYR): Payable to Charis Education Sdn. Bhd.
Cash in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR): While cash payments are not encouraged for security reasons, they can be made at the Admissions Office from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
Telegraphic Transfer in Foreign Currency: Account Name: Charis Education Sdn. Bhd. Account Number: 1002 00000 72718 Bank Name: Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad (Tawau Branch) Bank Address: Lot 69 & 70, Ground & 1st Floor, Kubota Square, Jalan Kubota, 91000 Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia Bank Telephone: +60-89-771 488 / 489 / 490 Bank Fax: +60-89-771 494 SWIFT Code: BMMBMYKL XXX
*Important Note: A copy of the bank transaction report must be forwarded to the School’s Fee Collection Office via: Fax: +60-89-762487 Email: charistawau@outlook.com WhatsApp: +60-17-2178830
Annual Tuition Fees Year 7: MYR 34,000 Year 8: MYR 35,000 Year 9: MYR 38,000 Year 10: MYR 39,000 Year 11: MYR 45,000
Discounts A 20% sibling discount is available for students from Year 7 to Year 11, provided at least one sibling is enrolled full-time. Only one discount applies per student, whichever is higher.
Late Payment Charges A late fee is imposed for unsettled fees not paid two weeks before the start of the term.
Refund Policy The security deposit is refundable upon withdrawal, in accordance with the school’s policies. The application and registration fees are non-refundable.
Billing and Payment Methods Payments are typically made via bank transfer or through JomPAY. Bank Transfer Details: Name of School: Edumaax Liberty Sdn Bhd Bank Name: RHB Bank Berhad Account Number: 2-14062-0011067-3 Branch: Lot LGF 081-083, Lower Ground Floor, Kenanga Wholesale City, 2 Jalan Gelugor, 55200 Kuala Lumpur Swift Code: RHBBMYKL030
The school offers boarding for outstation and international students, with Charis Home available as a home-away-from-home option. A boarding form is required for boarding applicants.
Boarding arrangements
Day school
Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
Secondary students are required to wear full formal uniform. After assembly, the blazer and the waistcoat may be removed, but the tie must be worn all day.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
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Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is governed by a Board of Governors. The Chairman is Radaha Krishnan; the Treasurer is Soon Yee Fun; Board Members are Teh Yung Huat, Tan Kian Chong and Tay Ming Yih. The school is MOE-approved and a Cambridge International Examination Centre offering Cambridge IGCSE.
Governance and ownership
Imperium International Secondary School is part of the Edumaax Group under the umbrella of MAA Group Bhd. It is linked to St. John's International School in Kuala Lumpur and Imperium International School. It is registered with the Education Ministry of Malaysia (MOE) and approved by Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) to deliver the IGCSE syllabus.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Charis International School offers the Cambridge International Curriculum from Kindergarten through Year 11. In the Kindergarten years (ages 4–6), students engage in foundational learning across communication, literacy, numeracy, science, art, music, and physical development, with exposure to English, Malay, and Chinese. Primary students (Years 1–6) follow the Cambridge Primary Programme, studying English, Mathematics, Science, and Global Perspectives, alongside computing, PE, moral/religious education, and additional languages. Lower Secondary (Years 7–9) continues with the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme and introduces subjects such as Social Studies, Art, Music, and ICT. In Upper Secondary (Years 10–11), students prepare for the IGCSE exams and can choose between science or commerce streams, with subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Business Studies, Accounting, ICT, and languages. Instruction is in English, and the curriculum is supported by co-curricular activities and project-based learning.
Curriculum details
Imperium International Secondary School offers a curriculum based on the Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) framework, catering to students from Year 7 to Year 11. It follows the national school calendar.
In the Lower Secondary stage (Years 7–9), students study subjects including English as a First Language, Malay as a First Language, Mathematics, Science, ICT, History and Geography of Asia, Global Perspectives, and Physical Education. This stage is designed to build foundational knowledge and skills across a broad range of disciplines.
For Upper Secondary (Years 10–11), students prepare for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations. Up to 14 subjects are offered at this level, including English as a First Language, Malay as a First Language, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics or ICT, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Accounting, Economics, and Business Studies. The IGCSE program at IISS caters to different levels of ability, offering both core and extended papers in many subjects, allowing students to choose the level that best suits their academic strengths.
This structured progression from Lower to Upper Secondary ensures that students are well-prepared for further education and equipped with the necessary skills for academic success.
Charis International School emphasizes a nurturing environment, particularly in its Kindergarten program, where children are individually guided through a holistic development program. The school's commitment to a supportive atmosphere is evident in its efforts to provide a "home away from home" for students.
Social & emotional learning
IISS supports students’ social and emotional growth through special classes on character and values development. These sessions are designed to help students build resilience, empathy, and responsibility in a structured setting. Additionally, the school offers up to four parent–teacher meetings annually, facilitating open communication about students’ social and emotional progress. This is complemented by real-time lesson updates for parents via the EMS system, fostering stronger school-home collaboration.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not explicitly mention specialized programs or facilities for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) on its official website.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school's website does not provide specific information regarding support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
Charis International School offers English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, particularly at the Lower Secondary level. This provision supports students who are not fluent in English, helping them to develop the necessary language skills to access the broader curriculum effectively.
English as an additional language
IISS offers English as a First Language as part of its curriculum, indicating that English is the primary medium of instruction. It also offers an English Language Mastery Programme, which suggests structured language development support for students. However, the website does not detail specific programs or support structures for students who are non-native English speakers.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
While the school emphasizes a caring and supportive environment, specific programs or initiatives targeting mental wellbeing are not detailed on the official website.
Mental wellbeing
IISS provides access to counselling services and pastoral care to support students’ mental and emotional health. These services are designed to help students navigate academic pressures, interpersonal challenges, and personal growth. Activities such as leadership camps and character development classes are integrated into the school experience to promote self-awareness, resilience, and confidence.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Charis International School has established rules and disciplinary procedures to maintain a safe and respectful learning environment. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, with immediate parental involvement and formal warnings issued in such cases. These measures underscore the school's commitment to safeguarding and child protection.
Safeguarding
IISS's website does not provide explicit information regarding safeguarding policies or child protection measures.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
Charis International School provides purpose-built facilities to support modern learning. The school uses ICT-enabled classrooms and a Resource Room. It hosts a Computing Lab, Science Labs, a Library, an Auditorium, and a Multi-Purpose Hall. Additional spaces include a Health & Fitness Centre, a Dance & Music Studio, and a Music Room.
Facilities overview
The school has classrooms, an ICT Lab, a Science Lab, and a Library. The campus includes a Hall and a Games Room. There is a Basketball Court and a Pickleball Court on campus. These spaces support teaching, practical science work, information technology, and physical education.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The school has a Health & Fitness Centre for physical education. It also offers co-curricular sports through Sports Club, Swimming Club, Track & Field Club, and Archery Club.
Sports facilities
A Basketball Court and a Pickleball Court are available on site for student sports.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
Academic facilities include ICT-enabled classrooms and a Resource Room to support learning, plus a Computing Lab, Science Labs, and a Library. Cambridge Pathway education is provided through the Cambridge Primary, Lower Secondary, and Upper Secondary routes, and Charis is a Cambridge International School. English is the main medium of instruction with Chinese and Malay offered as second languages. The school is MOE-approved and located in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia. Blended classroom learning and ongoing faculty development are part of the approach.
Academic facilities
Classrooms, ICT Lab, Science Lab, and Library support the Lower Secondary (Year 7-9) and IGCSE (Year 10-11) curricula. Cambridge Lower Secondary provides a framework for English, Mathematics, and Science, and Cambridge IGCSE is offered. Cambridge IGCSE subjects include English Language, Malay Language, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics/ICT, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Accounting, and Business Studies. These facilities support core academic activities and examination preparation.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Groups and clubs cover academics, arts, language and sport, including Little Professors Club, Story-telling Club, Dream Makers Club, Interact Club, Leaderonomics Club, Chess Club, English Club, Chinese Club, Science Club, Suru Club, Sports Club, Swimming Club, Table-tennis Club, Badminton Club, Hiking Club, Cooking & Baking Club, Dancing Club, Drama Club, Movies Club, Photography Club, Track & Field Club, and Archery Club.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra-curricular activities are offered as part of a comprehensive education. The school emphasizes soft skills and character development as part of learning beyond the classroom. Embedded Programmes accompany the formal curriculum to enhance learning.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Charis International School was established on August 24, 2014, making it the first registered international school in Tawau and the third in the East Malaysian state of Sabah. Charis International School is located within Calvary Crown, a ten-story multipurpose building strategically situated in the heart of Tawau town. The school offers the Cambridge International Curriculum from Kindergarten through Upper Secondary levels.
History
Imperium International Secondary School (IISS) in Kota Kinabalu was established in 2024 as part of the Edumaax Education Group, a subsidiary of MAA Group Berhad. The school was founded by Tunku Dato’ Yaacob Khyra, who has a personal connection to Sabah, having spent significant time there during his schooling years. This initiative reflects his desire to give back to the community by providing accessible international education in the region. IISS is the sixth institution under the Edumaax Group, which also includes St. John’s International School in Kuala Lumpur and Imperium International College.
Community
Community
Charis International School fosters a diverse and inclusive community, celebrating various cultures and traditions. An example of this is the annual International Day event, which showcases a kaleidoscope of color, music, and culture. The event features performances such as the Kindy Dance, Seni Maharatu Dance, Chinese Dance, shadow play, and choir. Students, teachers, and parents participate in a national costume competition, and parents actively assist in decorating booths and preparing desserts from different countries.
Community
The school community at IISS is designed around inclusivity and student development. The campus provides dedicated spaces for extracurricular clubs such as sports, nature club, chess, yoga, music, and art. Events and embedded programs are supported by structured schedules and designated club time.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
Charis International School has an active Parent-Teacher Association that plays a significant role in the school's community. The PTA organizes meetings and events that encourage collaboration between parents and teachers. These gatherings provide a platform for discussing students' progress and school activities. The PTA's involvement enhances the school's environment by fostering strong relationships among parents, teachers, and students.
Parent teacher association
IISS schedules up to four parent–teacher meetings per academic year. These meetings are designed to provide regular opportunities for parents and teachers to discuss student progress, address any concerns, and collaborate on strategies to support the student's learning journey.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
Charis International School follows the Cambridge International curriculum for its primary and secondary programmes. The school is MOE-approved and serves kindergarten to Year 11. Charis is a Cambridge International examination centre for IGCSE. The IGCSE qualification is widely recognized as an entrance standard to many colleges and universities worldwide.
Academic & intellectual
Imperium International Secondary School is an approved Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) school in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, offering the IGCSE syllabus and registered under the Education Ministry of Malaysia (MOE). The school serves students aged 12 to 18.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Diverse co-curricular activities provide a creative platform to nurture holistic growth. Character First education is incorporated to develop leadership qualities. The program supports engagement in a broad range of co-curricular activities as part of its holistic development approach.
Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
The English language is the main medium of instruction, with Chinese and Malay offered as second languages. The curriculum supports multilingual international culture. International staff and students from diverse backgrounds enrich the learning environment.
Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Charis offers diverse co-curricular activities including recreational clubs and hobby groups. These activities complement classroom learning and promote teamwork and communication. The school emphasizes holistic development through an active student-centered approach.
Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Character First education develops leadership qualities and is integrated into the co-curricular program. The school aims to cultivate lifelong learners with global perspectives and essential generic learning skills such as research, analysis, collaboration and communication.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the main medium of instruction. Mandarin and Malay are offered as second-language subjects. English First Language (EFL) and English as Second Language (ESL) are part of the English curriculum. Mandarin and Malay are taught across primary and secondary levels as part of the Cambridge pathway.
Language provision
English is taught as a First Language and Malay is taught as a First Language. Lower Secondary (Year 7-9) includes English Language and Malay Language along with Mathematics, Science, ICT, History and Geography-Asia, Global Perspectives, and Physical Education. IGCSE (Year 10-11) includes English Language and Malay Language along with Mathematics, Additional Mathematics/ICT, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Accounting, Economics, and Business Studies. Cambridge International Lower Secondary is offered as part of the Cambridge framework to develop learners' English, Mathematics and Science skills and provides a pathway to Cambridge IGCSE.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
English is the main medium of instruction. Mandarin and Malay are taught as second languages within the curriculum.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
2022 Asia International Book of Records – Malaysia Top 100 Schools Award Recognized as one of Malaysia's top 100 schools by the Asia International Book of Records, highlighting the school's commitment to excellence. charis.edu.my
Duke of Edinburgh International Awards (2023) On 18 November 2023, 24 secondary students from Charis International School received the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards at bronze and silver levels, acknowledging their achievements in personal development and community service.
Awards
As of now, there are no publicly available records of awards received by Imperium International Secondary School.
Accreditations
Accreditations
Ministry of Education (Malaysia) Charis International School is fully accredited by the Malaysian Ministry of Education, ensuring compliance with national educational standards.
Cambridge International Examination Centre The school is a registered Cambridge International Examination Centre, authorized to administer the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations.
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) IISS is an approved Cambridge International School, authorized to offer the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) curriculum. This accreditation ensures that the school meets the standards set by Cambridge for delivering its international education programs.
Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) The school is registered under the Malaysian Ministry of Education, indicating compliance with national educational regulations and standards.
International Primary Curriculum (IPC) – 'Mastering' Status IISS has achieved 'Mastering' status in the delivery of the International Primary Curriculum, reflecting a high level of implementation and commitment to continuous improvement in primary education.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Schedule a School Tour or Trial Class (Optional) Families can book a school tour, admissions test, or trial class by downloading and submitting the enquiry form available on the school's website. This provides an opportunity to experience the school's environment and facilities firsthand.
Complete and Submit the Application Form Download and fill out the Admissions Form. Along with the form, prepare the following documents: Four recent passport-sized photos of the student. A copy of the student's birth certificate, MyKid, or passport. Copies of parents' MyKads or passports, and visas. The student's most recent school report. *Boarding applicants must complete the boarding application form.
Pay the Application Fee A non-refundable application fee of MYR 200 is required. Payments can be made by cash, cheque, online transfer, or telegraphic transfer.
Await Application Review and Notification The admissions team will review the application and send a notification of the outcome via email. If successful, further instructions regarding enrollment and orientation will be provided.
For International Students: Visa Application and Arrival Preparations Upon receiving an offer, international students should apply for a student visa through the appropriate visa center. After obtaining the visa, arrange travel to Tawau, Malaysia, and prepare for the start of the academic term. International students should note the following steps: Apply for a student Visa with the Visa Centre Book a flight ticket and arrive at school Pay school and misc. fees Buy and collect your books and uniforms from the school office Collect the Academic Calendar, timetable, name tag and Club activity form Download the school2me app
Admissions
Submit the Application Form and Required Documents Complete the school's application form and provide the necessary documents, including academic records and identification. A non-refundable application fee is required at this stage. This step initiates the formal application process.
Attend the Placement Test The admissions team will schedule a placement test to assess the student's suitability for the school's programs. The test evaluates academic readiness and helps determine the appropriate grade level. Parents will be notified of the test date and time via email.
Placement Test Outcome The school will communicate the outcome of the placement test within one week. If the student meets the requirements and there is availability, an offer of admission will be extended. If the desired grade level is full, the student may be placed on a waiting list.
Registration and Payment Upon acceptance, parents are required to pay the registration fee, one semester's tuition fee, insurance, and a security deposit. After payment, the school will provide a Student Handbook and Registration Checklist. Orientation details will also be shared to help new students integrate smoothly.
Scholarships
Scholarships
Charis International School offers scholarships to high-achieving students. Top-performing students are encouraged to sit for an assessment exam, and scholarships are awarded based on the results.
Scholarships
The school's website mentions the availability of scholarships; however, specific details regarding scholarship types, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines are not provided.
Waitlist
Waitlist
Charis International School does not explicitly mention the operation of a waitlist or pool system on its official website. Admissions are processed on a rolling basis, subject to availability.
Waitlist
Imperium International Secondary School operates a waitlist system for grade levels that have reached full capacity. If a student's application is successful but no immediate placement is available, their name will be added to the waiting list.
