Imperium International Secondary School vs Jesselton International School
Imperium International Secondary School and Jesselton International School are both in Sabah, about 4 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE programmes, and Jesselton International School also offers British, Cambridge (Primary) and Cambridge A Levels. Published annual fees are MYR 34,000 - 45,000 at Imperium International Secondary School and MYR 14,190 - 37,500 at Jesselton International School, which puts Imperium International Secondary School roughly 53% higher. Imperium International Secondary School takes pupils from 12 to 18, and Jesselton International School from 4 to 18.
British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels
Pupils
Pupils
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Pupils
250
Typical class size
Typical class size
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Typical class size
14
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
2024
Opened
2018
Bus service
Bus service
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Bus service
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Essentials
Essentials
Location
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.
Location
Jesselton International School is situated at Lot 1, Jalan Kemajuan, Karamunsing, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The school is located in a central area of Kota Kinabalu, providing convenient access to various parts of the city. This location offers ease of transportation for families residing in and around the city.
Stages
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.
Stages
Jesselton International School follows the British curriculum, preparing students for IGCSE and A-Level examinations and is structured as follows: Kindergarten: Ages 4–6 Primary School: Years 1–6 Secondary School: Years 7–11 A-Level Programme: Years 12–13
School type
School type
Imperium International Secondary School is a co-educational day school and does not offer boarding facilities.
School type
Jesselton International School is a co-educational day school. It 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
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).
Additional learning support
The school provides support for students with additional learning needs, including those requiring special educational assistance.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
Imperium International Secondary School is a Malaysian institution and does not have an affiliation with any other country.
Country affiliation
Jesselton International School does not have a formal affiliation with any country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
The school is secular and does not have any religious affiliation.
Religious affiliation
The school is non-denominational and does not have any religious affiliation.
School day structure
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.
School day structure
Specific details about the daily schedule, including start and end times, as well as break and lunch periods, are not publicly provided.
Bus service details
Bus service details
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Bus service details
Jesselton International School does not publicly specify the provision of a school bus or transportation service.
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
Annual Tuition Fees Kindergarten (1–2): MYR 14,190 Year 1–2: MYR 21,270 Year 3–4: MYR 25,230 Year 5–6: MYR 27,390 Year 7–8: MYR 31,350 Year 9: MYR 32,000 Year 10–11: MYR 36,840 Year 12–13: MYR 37,500
Other Fees Supplies and Equipment: Primary 1–4: MYR 180 per term Primary 5–6: MYR 320 per term Secondary: MYR 320 per term A-Level: MYR 500 per term
Sports Activities: Kindergarten: MYR 100 per term Primary 1–4: MYR 200 per term Primary 5–6 and Secondary: MYR 480 per term
Kindergarten Afternoon Care: MYR 490 every month After-School Activities: MYR 50 registration fee per activity per term, additional fees may apply for specialist coaches.
Examination Fees: IGCSE: MYR 500–700 per subject A-Level: as per examination board rates.
Uniform: Available for purchase from the school.
Textbooks: Primary: Purchase from the school Secondary and A-Level: Purchase as per the book list.
Visa Application (if applicable): MYR 500.
Sibling Discounts Second child: 5% discount Third child: 10% discount Fourth and subsequent children: 15% discount
Billing Schedule and Payment Terms The school operates on a three-term academic year. Payments are due within 28 days from the date the invoice is issued. Early annual payment of tuition fees (all three terms in one payment) attracts a 100% discount on Supplies and Equipment Fees for the academic year.
Refund Information The enrolment fee is non-refundable. The deposit is refundable upon withdrawal, subject to the school's terms and conditions.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
Day school
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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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
The school has a house system with three houses named Titan, Spartan and Trojan. Regular house days are held and involve social, academic, creative, and sporting events to foster a sense of belonging among students.
Governance and ownership
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.
Governance and ownership
The school is owned by Golden Bornoe Hope Sdn. Bhd. (Company registration number 1279130-K).
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
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.
Curriculum details
Jesselton International School offers a British-based curriculum from Early Years through to A Levels. In the Kindergarten stage (ages 4–6), the school follows a play-based learning approach aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). The Primary School curriculum (Years 1–6) includes English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Art, Music, PE, and Languages (Malay and Mandarin). At the Secondary level (Years 7–11), students follow the Cambridge curriculum, preparing for IGCSE examinations in a range of core and elective subjects. In Years 12 and 13, students pursue Cambridge International A Levels, selecting from academic subjects in sciences, humanities, and mathematics. English is the medium of instruction, with additional support for non-native speakers.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
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Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
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Higher education progression
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Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
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.
Social & emotional learning
JIS emphasizes the development of students' social and emotional competencies through its educational practices. Teachers are encouraged to consider each child's individual needs, fostering deeper understanding and problem-solving skills.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school's website does not provide specific information regarding support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Special educational needs (SEN)
While JIS is not a specialist SEN institution, it strives to support students with diverse learning needs.
English as an additional language
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.
English as an additional language
JIS recognizes the importance of supporting students for whom English is an additional language. The school's teaching staff employs strategies to assist EAL students in developing their English proficiency, enabling them to access the curriculum effectively and participate fully in school life.
Mental wellbeing
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.
Mental wellbeing
The school acknowledges the significance of mental health and wellbeing in the educational journey. JIS fosters a caring community where teachers are dedicated to the holistic development of students, including their emotional wellbeing.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
IISS's website does not provide explicit information regarding safeguarding policies or child protection measures.
Safeguarding
JIS is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all students. The school implements safeguarding measures aligned with best practices to protect students' welfare. Staff members are trained to recognize and respond to child protection concerns, ensuring that the wellbeing of students remains a top priority.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
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.
Facilities overview
The Jesselton International School (JIS) is located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The address is Lot 1, Jalan Kemajuan, Karamunsing 88000 Kota Kinabalu; the contact number is +6011-1779 9843 and the email is info@jisgroup.edu.my.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
A Basketball Court and a Pickleball Court are available on site for student sports.
Sports facilities
N/A
Academic facilities
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.
Academic facilities
N/A
Extra curricular facilities
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.
Extra curricular facilities
JIS offers co-curricular and extra-curricular programs including the Jesselton International School Community Outreach Programme (JISCOP) and the Young Entrepreneur Programme (YEP). The school also runs a house system with Titan, Spartan and Trojan houses to support leadership and teamwork. There are more than 30 after-school activities and clubs, and a range of on-campus and off-campus opportunities linked to sports, arts and academics.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
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.
History
Jesselton International School (JIS) was established in 2018 in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, with the aim of providing international education options for local families. The school offers a comprehensive British curriculum, catering to students aged 4 to 18, encompassing Kindergarten through A Levels. JIS is part of the Jesselton International Group, which has a history of involvement in educational initiatives. The school's founding vision focuses on delivering high-quality education with a commitment to innovation and integrity.
Community
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.
Community
JIS fosters a diverse and inclusive community, celebrating various cultural events that reflect the multicultural fabric of Sabah. The school organizes annual celebrations such as the Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and the Kaamatan Festival, providing students with opportunities to engage with different cultural traditions. These events are integral to the school's efforts to promote cultural understanding and community engagement among students, staff, and families.
Parent teacher association
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.
Parent teacher association
While specific details about JIS's PTA activities are not publicly disclosed, the school emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in the educational process. Parents are encouraged to participate in school events and activities, fostering a collaborative environment between the school and families.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
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.
Academic & intellectual
Jesselton International School provides a British international foundation for ages 4 to 18, offering IGCSE and A Levels. The Primary curriculum is based on the National Standards of England with Cambridge learning targets, while the Secondary program leads to IGCSE and A Levels under Cambridge CAIE and Edexcel boards. A Levels include a mentor-mentee system to guide progress and university applications, and there are more than 60 subject specialists with small class sizes to support individualized learning.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
Creative classes in the Primary curriculum include Music, Arts, ICT, and PE. Secondary also includes Music and Art as part of core subjects. Extracurricular arts offerings include the JIS Band, Da Vinci Club, Singing Club, Dancing Club, and Rhythmic Gymnastics among more than 30 options.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
Foreign languages in the Primary curriculum include Malay, Mandarin, and French. In Secondary, Mandarin and Malay are taught as languages.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
The school offers an extensive, learning-beyond-the-classroom program with on-campus and off-campus activities and more than 30 options. There is a House System to develop leadership and teamwork through regular house days with a mix of events. Extracurricular options include Mad Scientist, Chess and Go, Tae Kwon Do and MMA, JIS Band, Da Vinci Club, Singing Club, Dancing Club, Yoga Club, Architectural Engineering Club, Chinese Club, E-Sport Club, Magazine Club, Book Club, Rhythmic Gymnastics, and more.
Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
The Duke of Edinburgh International Award Program is offered to develop global citizenship outside the classroom. The school also runs JISCOP (Jesselton International School Community Outreach Programme) where Year 10 students volunteer in workplaces and Year 9 students volunteer in non-profit organizations.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
Leadership development is supported by the House System, with regular house activities that foster teamwork and leadership. The school offers the Duke of Edinburgh International Award, the Young Entrepreneur Program (YEP), and JISCOP to cultivate leadership, enterprise, and social responsibility. For A Levels, a mentor-mentee system guides students through academic progress and university applications.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Pastoral care is described as excellent. The curriculum integrates physical education and sports, including a broad range of activities through the House System and extracurricular offerings. The KK Wetlands and a Nature Club feature support for environmental awareness and well-being.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
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.
Language provision
English is a core subject in Primary. In Secondary, English is taught as a first and second language. Foreign languages include Malay, Mandarin, and French. Malay is taught from Kindergarten.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
As of now, there are no publicly available records of awards received by Imperium International Secondary School.
Awards
Duke of Edinburgh's International Award – Gold Level Participation (2021) JIS students achieved the Gold Level in the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, reflecting their commitment to personal development, community service, and outdoor challenges.
Accreditations
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.
Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
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.
Admissions
Schedule a School Visit or Attend an Open House Parents are encouraged to visit the campus to meet with staff and understand the school's environment.
Complete the Application Form Students must submit a registration form and ensure that all the required documents, such as previous school reports and identification, are included.
Assessment and Interview Depending on the year group, students may be required to undergo assessments or interviews to determine appropriate placement and support needs.
Offer and Acceptance Successful applicants will receive an offer letter. To secure the place, parents must confirm acceptance and pay the enrolment fee of MYR 6500 and a deposit of MYR 2000 due at registration.
Orientation and Commencement Before the academic year begins, new students may attend orientation sessions to familiarize themselves with the school community and routines.
Scholarships
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.
Scholarships
As of the current information available, Jesselton International School does not publicly advertise any scholarship programs.
Waitlist
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.
Waitlist
Jesselton International School does not publicly specify the use of a waitlist or pool system. Admissions are processed on a rolling basis, and placements are subject to availability in the desired year group.
