SDS Alumna Gillian Lim - A Rising Star in Bowling

Having a talented student is not only something to be proud of but also acts as an inspiration to fellow students. This achievement reflects how Sunway Diploma Studies (SDS) continues to demonstrate its excellence by supporting another outstanding athlete in the world of bowling.

Gillian Lim Siew Giok, a proud alumna from the Diploma in Communication (DCOM) programme (2019–2022), has earned her place as one of ASEAN's top athletes, ranking 3rd in Asia in 2024. Hailing from Sarawak, Gillian’s love for bowling began at home, with her father as her first coach. Although she initially explored various sports, she eventually found her calling in bowling. Her journey to becoming a national athlete began in 2017 when she won gold in the Women’s Singles category at a Youth Bowling Tournament in her homeland. By 2018, she had joined the Malaysian national team, representing the country with pride and determination.

The rising star has consistently showcased her passion on the global stage, earning recognition as one of the top athletes in bowling. Recently, she achieved a remarkable Silver Medal in her debut at the 2025 IBF World Cup in Hong Kong, China. Additionally, she secured Silver Medals in the Trios category at both the Asian Championship in Thailand and the World Championship, proving her unwavering fortitude and skill in international competitions.

While topping in bowling, Gillian also pursued a Diploma in Communication at Sunway College. Her decision to study communication stemmed from her desire to develop Public Relation (PR) skills and connect with people. Despite the challenges of balancing rigorous training schedules and academic responsibilities, she excelled, crediting her success to strong family support, understanding lecturers, and meticulous time management. Her favourite quote reflects her tenacity; “If it doesn’t challenge you, then life is not fun.”

Gillian is also driven by the need for a "Plan B." Recognising that sports can be unpredictable, she values education as a safety net for her future. Her willpower to succeed academically alongside her sports career is a proof to her dedication and foresight.

Looking back at her two years’ experience at Sunway College, Gillian recalls how much she cherishes the friendships she made. She emphasised the unforgettable sense of togetherness in class. Alongside these cherished memories, she fondly highlights the support she received from the college, particularly the convenience of having the training centre at Sunway Pyramid Mega Lane nearby and the flexibility offered by her program. “Sunway College gave me the confidence to become the best version of myself. The support from the programme and the accessibility to my training centre made balancing sports and studies so much easier. I’m proud to call Sunway my second home,” she said.

When asked what she has to say to those looking to follow in her footsteps, Gillian underlines the importance of hard work, discipline, and determination over talent. Her advice emphasises focusing on the target, investing in quality equipment and coaching, and staying patient, as success in bowling is a journey that demands grit and perseverance.

Gillian’s future is as bright as her achievements. She is set to compete in the Malaysia Open this April and the Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA) tournament. Beyond bowling, she envisions a career in broadcasting, leveraging her communication skills to inspire and inform others.

From Sarawak to the world stage, Gillian is a living proof of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Her story serves as a powerful inspiration to Sunway students, proving that with the right mindset and support, it is possible to excel in both academics and sports.

This article is written by SDS lecturer, Mieza Shafieza Mohd Fuad.