Attending the Sabah College CNY Open House on 22.2.2013 was the first activity I participated after being "pressured" to join as a member of OSCA (Old Sabah Collegians Association) in late 2012. I have to say "pressured" because it was not my desire and intention to be associated with an institution that has changed its original character which upholds the noble ideals of being a learning centre for all irrespective of creed and colour.
Way back in 1970 - 1971 when I was a sixth former of this well known and prestigious school, the school did not have policy of adopting an obvious preference and emphasis based on racial and religious factor. Sadly, in subsequent years, a few little napoleons who were appointed to head the school opted for a perverted policy of only accepting students of a specific creed and colour. That was the time when the school began to regress in the students' performance in academic, sports and other co-curriculum activities.
From the speech of the current Principal who is an ex-student of this school, it is reassuring to note that she has decided to revert the school to those early days subscribing to its original ideals. I think the organizing of a CNY Open House is a good example of this new spirit even though the school has a small number of Chinese students. The lion troupe brought in to liven up the atmosphere and the presentation of the Chinese Zodiac through LCD in the assembly are small but right steps taken to steer this institution back to its glorious days.
Photo below : Left - the Principal in her welcoming speech and right - Datuk Ir. Hiew Thien Choi, guest of honour, an ex-Sabah Collegian and (also the ex-boss of this writer in his JKR days) reminiscing the glorious days of the college. He was a 6th former during the 1960's.
Students performed a modern version of ribbon dance. It's heartening to see non-Chinese doing a Chinese dance!
The current Principal, Hajah Nuinda Hj Alias with ex-teacher, Puan Penny Lim (the writer;s wife) at her right. Puan Penny taught English in Sabah College from 1979 – 1986.
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