Sabah College CNY Open House 2013

Attending the Sabah College Chinese New Year (CNY) Open House on 22.2.2013 was the very first activity I participated in after being “pressured” into joining the Old Sabah Collegians Association (OSCA) in late 2012. I use the word “pressured” deliberately, because truth be told, it was never my original desire or intention to associate myself again with an institution that, in my eyes, had long deviated from its founding ideals - those noble principles of being a true centre of learning for all, irrespective of creed or colour.

Back in 1970-1971, when I was a Sixth Former at this renowned and prestigious school, Sabah College embraced inclusivity. It had no policy of favouring any one community, race, or religion. Students were admitted based on merit, and the school thrived - excelling in academics, sports, and co-curricular activities. Sadly, in the years that followed, this spirit was eroded. A few “little Napoleons,” who ascended to leadership positions, chose to enforce narrow, sectarian policies - accepting only students of certain backgrounds. That was the beginning of the decline: the once vibrant and diverse institution lost its shine, and with it, much of the excellence it once proudly embodied.

Listening to the speech of the current Principal - herself an alumna of Sabah College - was, however, heartening. She spoke with conviction about restoring the school to its original ideals, and that gave me hope. The very fact that the school organised a CNY Open House, despite having only a small number of Chinese students, is a symbolic but powerful gesture. The lively lion dance troupe, the spirited atmosphere, and the creative presentation of the Chinese Zodiac via LCD during the assembly may seem small steps, but they are the right steps - clear signs of a renewed spirit and a determination to steer Sabah College back towards its former glory.

Photo below: Top - the Principal delivering her welcoming speech; Middle - Datuk Ir. Hiew Thien Choi, guest of honour, a proud ex-Sabah Collegian (and incidentally my former superior during my JKR days), reminiscing about the glorious days of the College. He was himself a Sixth Former in the 1960s.

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 (my wife) at her right. Puan Penny taught English in Sabah College from 1979 - 1986.