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Md. Lee Sui Ting (Head of Technical & Vocational Department) Mdm, Samsiah Binti Ponding Senior Assistant (Form Six) Mdm. Ameliza Binti Ab Halim Mdm. Faezah Binti Toed Mdm. Halimah Helena Kabindong Mdm. Haliza Binti Mohamed Mdm. Haslinda Binti Mohd Daud Mdm. Kamala Devi Saminathan Mdm. Kamariah Binti Mohd Hasim Mdm. Kumutha Rakiappan Mdm. Lee Hwey Chian (School Counselor) Mdm. Lily Noridah Binti Mohd Nor Mdm. M. Santhi Marimuthu (Head of Humanities Department) Mr. Kalaiselvam Muiandi Principal Mr. Mohammad Radzi Bin Md Zain Senior Assistant (Adminstration & Academics) Mdm. Yap Kwee Inn Senior Assistant (Student Affairs) Mdm. Shantini Thilaga Lingam Senior Assistant (Co-Curriculum) Ms. Salina Binti Samsudin Senior Assistant (Afternoon) Mdm. Rokiah Binti Penoh (Head of Language Department) Mdm. Norhayati Binti Hashim (Head of Science and Mathematics Department) Mdm. Nor Hafini Binti Yusuf (School Counselor) Mdm. Noradaizah Binti Ithnin Mdm. Norlita Binti Ariffin Mdm. Azmawati Binti Aidi 3 Our Teachers
Mdm. Nur Dalila Binti Jamal Abd Nasir Mdm. Rosmawati Binti Mat Esa Mdm. Rosmini Binti Md Salleh Mdm. Rostina Binti Muhiyuddin Mdm. Seow Yoke Ying Mdm. Shamini Sanmugam Mdm. Siti Azirah Binti Abidin Mdm. Siti Hajar Binti Muhammad Shahlan Mdm. Siti Noraisah Binti Mohd Nazri Mdm. Siti Rokha Binti Mohd Din Mdm. Suhana Binti Hussin Mdm. Teng Kai Wen Mm. Ruhainis Binti Ibrahim Mr. B. Mogan Balakrishnan Mr. Che Muhammad Rahim Bin Che Ibrahim Mr. Fadzly Wahib Bin A. Rahman Mr. K. Raman Karuppan (School Counselor) Mr. Mohd Hafizi Bin Baharuddin Mr. Muhammad Faisal Bin Abdul Jalal Mdm. C.M. Guavathi Jeyandran Mdm. Chitra Krishnan Mdm. Chithra Raju Mdm. Au Li Li@Kalai Mdm. Agnes Ammal Thasan 4 Our Teachers
Mr. Poon Kah Leong Mr. Raventheran Manikam@Vesuloo Mr. Selvasingam Sachinathan Mr. Simon Soloman Rajasingam Soloman Mr. Suhaimi Bin Aziz Ms. Fariza Ilyani Binti Abu Bakar Ms. Hardeepak Kanda Rajindar Singh Ms. Helen Paul Ms. Hemah Latha Thangavellu Ms. Thaasha Thiruvengidam Ms. Zuriyani Binti Mat Zain Noraziah Binti Mat Husain Norazilah Binti Mat Husain Ms. Siti Nurhidayah Binti Rashid Mdm. Maizatul Fadilah Binti Maktar Mdm. Mazyla Binti Mokhtar Mdm. Nazirah Binti Alias Mdm. Nazreen Binti Nashruddin Mdm. Noor Hazani Binti Ismail Mdm. Yoe Pick Ling Mdm. Zainab Binti Daud Mdm. Fadilah Binti Wan Naman Mr. Ong Teck Seng Mdm. Nor Hasima Binti Mat Saad 5 Our Teachers
Ms. Prashanna Nair Balakrishnan Ms. Radzihah Binti Mohamed Ms. Rohiza Binti Ahmad Mdm. Azalina Binti Ahmad Bakri Dr. Marina Maharoff Mdm. Komathy Masilamany Mdm. Suriani Binti Mohd Mr. Zulkifli Muhhamad Ms. Lai Poh Chan Mdm. Thanaletchumi Chelliah Mr. Morgan T. Vadiveloo Mdm. Rusmarina Bt Abu Bakar Mr. Wong Weng Siong Mdm. Azwin Binti Ali Mdm.Sharmini Balasingam Secretary Mdm. Wizana Binti Ramli Mdm. Wu Yee Peng Mdm. Waytha Nayagi Ponnusamy Mr. Zulfadli Bin Amzar “A Teacher affects Eternity; He can never tell where his Influence stops.” -Henry Adams - 6 Our Teachers
7 PREFECTORIAL BOARD 2020/2021
PRELUDES OUR ALMA MATER TORCHBEARERS PAULIAN HERITAGE IN MEMORY SPORTS ARENA CARPE DIEM – SEIZE THE DAY WRITERS BLOC ONE CLASS …. ONE FAMILY 9-19 20-25 26-45 46-47 48-51 52-77 78-83 73-79 84-92 Content QUEST FOR EXCELLENCE 93-119 8
EDITORIAL BOARD 2020/202 Cover Design – Sudata Tan Preludes – Pranavha, Leckharaj Alma Mater – Pranavha, Leckharaj Torchbearers – Kaveenash, Yudhreyysh Paulian Heritage – Varshan, Madhubhan, Sarrvesh Accolades – Varshan, Roshan, Madhubhan, Leckharaj Clubs and Societies – Madhubhan, Varshan Sports Arena – Sarrvesh, Hassanal Carpe Diem – Pranavha, Yudhreyysh, Alston, Leckharaj Writer’s Bloc – Alston, Kaveenash, Leckharaj One Class One Family – Alston, Hassanal, Roshan School Diary – Sudata Tan TEACHERADVISORS: Mdm Komathy Masillamany Ms. Helen Paul Mdm. Norlita binti Arifin Mdm Seow Yoke Ying Mdm. Kumutha Rakiappan Mr. Mohd Hafizi bin Baharuddin Mr. Wong Weng Siong Mr. Simon Solomon Mdm. Lye Yean Moi Mdm. Nor Hafini bt Yusof Mdm. Shantini Thilaga Lingam Mdm. Nazreen bt Nashruddin Mdm. Thanaletchumi Chelliah 9
Welcome Paulians! We present to you the 2020/2021 issue of The Paulian. The theme ‘Changes: Rising Above’ was chosen to represent changes in our lives brought upon by this terrifying disease, Covid-19. Nonetheless, we believe that Paulians possess the power and will to overcome any obstacles they encounter in life. The making of this magazine was not an easy task. Yet, the combined efforts from the Editorial Board members and reliable teachers made the magazine possible. Firstly, I would like to express my thanks to Mdm. Komathy for entrusting me with the role of Editor and guiding me throughout the process of designing this magazine. Although tiring, you have always pushed us to not give up and do our best. I would also like to thank Mdm. Thana in playing a key role in completing the folders. Your calm and composed demeanour have put us at ease even in the most taxing situations. Our profound gratitude to Miss helen for continuing the good work guiding us in completing the production of this magazine. I extend my gratitude to Mdm. Shantini for your helpful and positive feedback to allow us to bring out the most in this magazine. When I was given the Editor role, I was hesitant and doubtful of my abilities. However, it was only with the aid of my competent Editorial Board members that this magazine yielded results. A special shout out to fellow Paulians of the class of 2019, Siddhartan, Sudata, Keertan and Maheshen , for helping out and pointing out areas where we were lacking. A school magazine is not only a recap of a school year but also contains precious memories to last a lifetime. One thing I learned in these trying times is that time flies too fast. Sometimes, we have to take a step back and cherish the present to not live with regrets. Hope you enjoy reading this magazine as much as I enjoyed making it! Thank you Leckharaj Ryo Thilagaganesh Editor St. Paul’s Editorial Board 2020/2021 10 EDITORIAL FOREWORD
It is my pleasure to express my thoughts as the principal of St. Paul’s Institution. A heartfelt appreciation to the efforts put forth by the Editorial Board as it is a tremendous achievement worth emulating. My special accolades go to all those who have worked hard to produce this magazine. This year’s theme on CHANGES: RISING ABOVE is apt and timely with the current changes that we are experiencing brought upon by a global pandemic. The Covid-19 pandemic has hit the education sector and is reshaping the education industry for the future. Being hit by unprecedented times, teachers and students are facing the challenges of adapting to virtual learning. Despite this, our dedicated teachers have shown their care and concern for the students by reaching out to them via various online teaching platforms. This has helped in creating a more personalized pathway in reaching out to the students. In the midst of the pandemic, we must remain positive and believe that nothing is predestined since obstacles of our past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings. We need to prepare our students to face problems and challenges courageously. Our students hold tremendous power within themselves to serve as agents of change. With a great sense of high morality and social responsibility, they will be makers of a virtuous society. Our academic and co-curricular achievement is also worth acknowledging. The students’ excellent performance in the recent public examinations is a testimony of the hard work put in by our dedicated teachers and diligent students. It is our mission to see all our students do well by moulding them to be responsible citizens of the future. I would like to thank all the teachers, the support staff, the maintenance team and the security staff for your commitment and dedication to the school. I sincerely appreciate the support you have rendered to me all these years. I also express my sincere gratitude to the Lasallian Mission for your trust in me and to the Board of Governors, Parent-Teacher Association and the Old Paulians’ Association for your continuous guidance and support. I would also like to thank the Ministry of Education for the yearly grant allocated for the school development. Teamwork is the hallmark of our success and I believe that through our collaborative effort, our school will rise to greater glory. Beloved Paulians, remember that diligence, hard work, dedication and perseverance are important traits for a successful life. The future belongs to you and you need to be well prepared to face the challenges and realities of life. ‘Once A Paulian, Always a Paulian’ Lee Boon Seng Principal St. Paul’s Institution 11 MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL 2020
It is an honour and privilege to be a part of St.Paul’s Institution, Seremban. As the principal of the school, I would like to congratulate the school’s Editorial Team for your successful production of the Paulian Magazine for the year 2020/2021. It gives me great pleasure to pen a few words as prologue for our school magazine This year’s theme “CHANGES: RISING ABOVE” is apt, especially as we face the huge challenge in the form of the pandemic “COVID-19”. This unprecedented crisis due to the pandemic has disrupted most of our work and daily activities and was a challenging time for students, teachers and parents. Though our students missed face-to-face interaction with their teachers for many months, teachers and students were able to continue their lessons through online classes. These changes helped students to make things possible in the new normal. Our school is blessed with the support from all quarters, namely the government, the La Salle Mission, our Alumni, our ParentTeacher Association and the community. As partners in learning with students, there was an unimaginable collaboration among all the stakeholders to ensure the transfer of knowledge in innovative ways to all the students. Thus, our students were able to have an enriching and innovative learning experience as they moved out of their comfort zone to attempt new challenges. We are thankful for your trust and belief in the school and we will continue to motivate our students to achieve their goals even during this tough time. I extend my best wishes to all those who will complete your school life and I encourage you to spread your wings and reach out for opportunities. Accept challenges as it will help you overcome adversities in life. I wish you success as you continue to uphold the good name and image of the school wherever you may be. ‘Once a Paulian, Always a Paulian’. Kalaiselvam Muniandi Principal St. Paul’s Institution, Seremban 12 MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL 2021
All life is about change. Living is about change. From our birth and as we go through life we are constantly evolving and changing as we experience the effects of environment, education and other challenges in life. How we react to this reflects the sum total of our personality. This is one of the immutable laws of nature. The crux of the matter is whether we allow change to influence us for the better or for the worse. While environment and experience play an important part in change, there is no doubt that education plays a very real and vital role in an individual’s change for the better. Education invigorates the mind, broadens the appreciation of our experiences and enables us to cope better with the turbulence of life. It is for this reason that the De La Salle Brothers ventured out to the far reaches of the Globe bearing the Torch of Learning to the less fortunate. They were acutely aware that with education there would be change for the better. Today, even though the Brothers are no longer here, St Paul’s carries on this Glorious tradition through its dedicated teachers who are imbued with the spirit of inspiration and selflessness as they impart their knowledge and expertise. Change is about moving forward. Change is about benefitting from change and above all change is about becoming better human beings so that society can benefit from our input. Change is about mindset and whether you lament that your cup is half empty or whether you rejoice that your cup is half full. Life is about choices and as students the choice is in your hands. Choose wisely. This is the turning point of your life. Use change to move forward without hesitation and success will be yours. Moving on to meet your goals in life takes courage, determination and dedication. Persevere and all the positive effects of change like success, happiness and satisfaction will be yours. With all best wishes to the dedicated teachers of this school who make this institution a shining star in the De La Salle Crown. Dr Bob D. Samuel BA(Lit) MBBS FCGP FIAMS AMN DNS PPT ANS PJK LSM CHAIRMAN, BOARD OF GOVERNORS ST. PAUL’S INSTITUTION, SEREMBAN 13 CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Assalammualaikum w.b.t. dan Salam sejahtera. Alhamdulillah syukur ke hadrat Allah S.W. T. kerana dengan taufik dan inayah-Nya, saya diberi kesempatan menitipkan kata alu-aluan untuk majalah sekolah bagi tahun 2021. Setinggi- tinggi tahniah dan syabas diucapkan kepada sidang redaksi SMK ST. PAUL kerana berjaya menerbitkan majalah sekolah pada tahun ini. Dalam usaha untuk menterjemahkan hasrat dan objektif pendidikan selaras dengan PPPM 2013-2025, setiap pendidik pasti melalui kemelut dan cabaran perubahan dalam dunia pendidikan. Justeru, transformasi dan penambahbaikan perlu dilaksanakan oleh para guru untuk mencapai aspirasi murid iaitu berpengetahuan, kemahiran berfikir, kemahiran memimpin, kemahiran dwibahasa dan etika sejajar dengan Falsafah Pendidikan Kebangsaan agar setiap mereka berupaya bersaing di peringkat global. Saya yakin, transformasi pendidikan yang telah dgarap akan berjaya sekiranya ada kerjasama sebagai sebuah pasukan dan berkhidmat dengan komitmen yang tinggi lagi berintegriti. Pendidikan abad ke-21 sejajar dengan naratif baharu Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia merupakan wahana yang mampu memartabatkan profesion keguruan di pentas global. Harapan kita kepada seluruh warga pendidikan dapat memikul amanah besar bagi mencorakkan negeri dan negara pada masa depan. Binalah insan mulia yang penuh ilmu di dada , mempunyai jati diri yang teguh dan amalan integriti berpasak kukuh dalam jiwa. Wajah generasi muda hari ini merupakan gambaran masa depan negeri dan negara. Akhir kata, saya yakin dan percaya bahawa warga sekolah akan terus berjuang bersunguh-sungguh untuk melahirkan murid-murid yang berakhlak tinggi, berpendidikan, kukuh jati diri dan bersemangat kental sekali gus mampu mengangkat dan memartabatkan sistem pendidikan negara kita. Sekian, terima kasih. “BERKHIDMAT UNTUK NEGARA” ‘BERSIH. MUAFAKAT. SEJAHTERA” YAB Dato’ Seri Haji Aminuddin Bin Harun MENTERI BESAR NEGERI SEMBILAN DARUL KHUSUS 14 KATA ALU-ALUAN
Assalammualaikum w.b.t. Salam Sejahtera. Salam ABC 2.0; Ambil Peduli, Bina Hubungan, Cipta Kejayaan. #Up Nogoghi! “Pendidikan Berkualiti, lnsan Terdidik, Negara Sejahtera” Alhamdulillah, bersyukur saya ke hadrat Allah SWT kerana dengan izin-Nya, saya diberikan peluang untuk merakamkan kata alu-aluan dalam Majalah Sekolah pada tahun ini. Bagi pihak Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Sembilan, segala usaha dan sumbangan dalam penerbitiln majalah ini amatlah dihargai dan disanjung tinggi. Setinggi- tinggi tahniah dan syabas diucapkan kepada sidang redaksi SMK ST. PAUL kerana berjaya menerbitkan majalah sekolah pada tahun 2021 ini. Dunia pendidikan pada alaf ini semakin kompleks dan global sifatnya. llmu menjadi prasyarat dalam pembentukan tamadun. Transformasi sedang berlaku dalam bidang pendidikan di negara ini. Pelan Pembangunan Pendidikan Malaysia (PPPM) 2013-2025 merupakan satu manifestasi dalam proses transformasi dunia pendidikan. Proses ini menterjemahkan peri pentingnya ilmu pengetahuan, kemahiran dan kepakaran manusia agar sentiasa berkembang dan dinamik hasil daripada penyelidikan dan pembangunan ilmu yang berterusan. Sekolah sebagai institusi pendidikan untuk menjelmakan pembangunan potensi modal insan telah menyediakan segala sumber yang diperlukan agar insan yang dididik mencapai kemajuan dan kesejahteraan dalam era kehidupan mereka pada masa ini dan akan datang. Saya amat yakin setiap murid berpeluang menggunakan segala sumber yang disediakan dalam norma baharu akibat pandemik yang melanda negara pada masa kini untuk mengenalpasti dan membangunkan potensi mereka ke tahap paling optimum melalui bimbingan para guru walaupun terpaksa menjalani pembelajaran secara PDPR. Saya percaya para pendidik juga sering menyusun strategi seiring dengan suasana norma baharu ini untuk memperkemas segala sasaran KPI dalam tempoh yang telah ditetapkan. Saya berharap majalah ini akan terus diterbitkan kerana Majalah Sekolah merupakan usaha yang sangat penting sebagai satu wahana yang dapat mendokumentasikan segala aktiviti yang berlaku di sekolah sepanjang tahun. Tahniah dan syabas sekali lagi saya ucapkan kepada warga SMK ST. PAUL atas kejayaan menerbitkan Majalah ini. Akhir kata, semoga setiap usaha murni semua pihak dapat merealisasikan hasrat untuk meningkatkan mutu pendidikan negara. Kepada pembaca majalah ini, semoga beroleh manfaat. Sekian, terima kasih. AT: DARURAT MEMERANGI COVID-19” UNTUK NEGARA” Haji Md Fiah Bin Md. Jamin A.N.S PENGARAH PENDIDIKAN JABATAN PENDIDIKAN NEGERI SEMBILAN 15 KATA ALU-ALUAN
Dear Paulians, Thank you for inviting me to write a message for your school magazine. For Paulian 2020/2021 the Editorial Board has chosen the theme, ‘CHANGES: Rising Above”. Is a change synonymous with moving forward? Not necessarily but whenever we make a change we hope that it is for the better. In some motivational talks, we are told to be agents of change. What does that mean? Very often, it has to begin with changing our own mindset before we can change the situation. Whenever we plan to make changes we should have the intention of moving forward. So I urge all you Paulians to focus on changing for the better. By inculcating the right Lasallian values we can make the school, the country and the world a better place. Let us change for the right purpose. On behalf of the La Salle Brothers, I congratulate the Editorial Board for producing this wonderful magazine in spite of the many challenges you face during this Covid pandemic. I am sure you will remember this year very well. This magazine will be cherished by all Paulians in many years to come. I would also like to thank the school administration and teachers for their dedication to quality education and instilling moral values in the students under their care. Thank you for maintaining the Lasallian ethos and character of the school. A special thanks to the Board, the PTA and the Alumni of the school for always supporting the school and bringing it to greater heights. Continue moving forward and striving to make your school shine in Negri Sembilan. May God Bless all of you. Br. Andrew Loke Brother Director Malaysia 16 COORDINATOR OF THE LA SALLE BROTHERS MALAYSIA
It is indeed an honour and privilege to be given this opportunity to pen down a message for this year’s edition of the “The Paulian 2020/2021”. “The Paulian” magazine is certainly a great platform for Paulians in expressing their creative pursuits. My heartiest congratulations to the Chief Editor and his magnificent team for their great efforts to put in print a collection of articles, stories, pictures and other features in such an excellent way. The theme for this year, “Changes: Rising Above” is rather profound and certainly augurs well in the circumstances we are presently facing. In the current situation of today, the Covid-19 pandemic appears as the worst global health disaster. The education system as well as those involved in education are all affected. This pandemic has starkly highlighted the fragility of our education system plus other challenges like government policy on education and so on. Indeed, this is the very time that Paulians must stand up to these significant changes and rise above, remaining true to our ethos, values and principles firmly based on the Lasallian foundation. As Paulians or Lasallians as a whole, we possess a blueprint imbued with a fighting spirit while remaining resilient with valour and diligence to rise above even when the odds are down. This Lasallian ethos, values and principles we are talking about is not any mere abstract theory. It means manifesting strength with determination, perseverance, discipline and an indomitable will which entails a roadmap of “onwards to victory”. As President of the Old Paulians’ Association, I’ve always acknowledged that I’ve come from a school of privilege. Through the ceaseless efforts of the Lasalle Brothers from the early stages, St Paul’s has established such a good reputation as well as a very fine tradition. This very spirit has been carried on to this day and as can be seen, the school is still as spirited and energetic as a young person, full of bright and innovative ideas, willing to embrace challenges and courageous in undertaking reforms in pursuit of excellence. As I write this message, the timing also coincides with the retirement of Mr. Lee Boon Seng as he completes his tenure after serving over 4 years as the Principal of the school. I take this opportunity to congratulate him on completing a very successful term and may I also wish him the very best on his retirement as well as to all his future endeavors. Mr. Lee was my contemporary from Class of ‘78. It was a privilege having him to lead the school for the last few years and for his able leadership to bring glory and remarkable achievements to St Paul’s. As we look forward to welcoming the new Principal, let’s hope he or she will be equally if not someone more capable and most importantly possessing an understanding of the foundation of Lasallian Education. Finally, my best wishes to the classes of Form 5 and Upper 6, as these young aspiring Paulians step out on the next stage of their lives. Please remember that learning does not end when you leave the school. You must continue to strive to improve and excel, no matter which pathway you are going to take. And with the saying of, “Once a Paulian, Always a Paulian”, it is my wish that you will stay connected and continue an active relationship with your alma mater through the OPA. Steven Chan Weng Choy President OLD PAULIANS’ ASSOCIATION 17 CHAIRMAN OF THE OLD PAULIANS’ ASSOCIATION
Fellow Paulians, First of all, congratulations to the Editorial Board of the school magazine who worked hard to publish The Paulian. This magazine, full of many memories, both sweet and bitter, is the result of the dedication of the members of the Editorial Board. I would like to thank the Editorial Board for allowing me to pen down my experiences and hopes as Head Prefect on this page. The year 2020 saw many trials and tribulations both locally and globally. In the midst of this, I was chosen as the head prefect of this premier and prestigious school, St Paul’s Institution. It was a great honour and privilege to be able to serve as the Head Prefect for the term 2019/2020. However, with great power comes great responsibility in upholding the discipline of the school. Nonetheless, taking on this responsibility was an amazing experience and has changed my perception as a teenager. I have been able to look further with a totally new perspective since taking on this challenging duty. I would like to express my utmost gratitude to the school administration and teachers of the prefectorial board for their continuous support and guidance in leading the Board to attain excellence. I would like to thank the members of the prefectorial board who have shown a high level of commitment and professionalism while on duty for the school. I hope that in the years to come the prefectorial board and the school will continue to strive to create new and bolder accomplishments. Dharvinraj Devendran HEAD PREFECT 2019/2020 ST PAUL’S INSTITUTION 18 HEAD PREFECT - 2020
“One book, one pen, one child and one teacher can change the world”. No doubt that my six years of experience in this prestigous school has proved the truth behind these wise words of Malala Yousafzai. St. Paul’s Institution has taught me that education is not preparation for life but education is life itself. Never did I imagine that all these years of unremitting effort that I have manifested have come to an end in a blink of an eye. With tremendous pride and honour as the Head Prefect of St. Paul’s Institution, I would like to thank the school for entrusting me in upholding the post which has been the dream of many. I am certain that I have conducted my responsibility to the fullest and the best of my ability. Of course, I wouldn’t have accomplished it without the exceptional guidance by many passionate and benevolent teachers whom I have encounterd along the way, especially our former prefect and discipline teacher, Madam V. Sam. I am entirely grateful to her for the faith that she has kept in me and appointing me to lead a batch of remarkable prefects who has served the school tirelessly. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to the principal and discipline teachers whom I have served alongside for the past five years. They have done a remarkable job in upholding the school discipline. Every Paulian should understand that the strict and firm actions of our discipline teachers is only to make us a better leader in the near future. Thus, we will be more valorous and optimistic in facing challenges to make the society a better place. The teacher advisors of St. Paul’s Institution Prefectorial Board have been the epitome of the accomplishments of our prefects collectively and individually. Without their rigid guidance and endless support, the board wouldn’t have been a success. My journey as a head prefect has come to an end. It has been a great pleasure working with a very supportive council who has stood by me till the very end. Without a single hesitation, we have given our upmost contribution and form a proficient team. I urge the upcoming batch of council to set their fellow seniors as a role model and carry out your tasks diligently towards the betterment of the prefectorial board. To my fellow Paulians, keep moving forward and strive for the best in everything. Always remember to uphold the great name of St. Paul’s Institution as we are the children of the great St John Baptist de La Salle. Keep the La Salle spirit burning brightly in our hearts and souls because once a Paulian, always a Paulian. Thank you. Jiviiswaar Asogaran HEAD PREFECT 2020/2021 ST PAUL’S INSTITUTION 19 HEAD PREFECT - 2021
ST. PAUL’S INSTITUTION, SEREMBAN PAST BRO.DIRECTORS / PRINCIPALS OUR ALMA MATER 20
Chairman Dr Bob Samuel BA (Lit) MBBS, FCGP, PJC, LSM, ANS Ministry Representative Mr. ThomasThamboe Ministry Representative Mr. Winston Choong Yew Yoong Ministry Representative Mr. Yam Kait Wah Mission Representative Br. Ambrose Loke FSC Mission Representative Mr. Chan Leng Wai Mission Representative Mr. Lim Loke Choy Old Paulians’ Association Representative Dato’ Lai See Ming DBNS, KMN, ANS, PJK ,KSLJ Old Paulians’ Association Representative Mr Tan Kok Chin Old Paulians’ Association Representative Mr. Steven Chan Weng Choy Parent-Teacher Association Representative Mr. Lee Yeow Pong Parent-Teacher Association Representative Mdm Bhavna Patel Parent-Teacher Association Representative Mr Woo Yew Kong Asst Secretary Ms. Helen Paul Secretary Mr. Lee Boon Seng Principal Treasurer Mdm. Wee Seok Cheng 21 BOARD OF GOVERNORS 2020
Chairman Dr Bob Samuel BA (Lit) MBBS, FCGP, PJC, LSM, ANS Ministry Representative Mr. Thomas Thamboe Ministry Representative Mr. Winston Choong Yew Yoong Ministry Representative Mr. Yam Kait Wah Mission Representative Br. Ambrose Loke FSC Mission Representative Mr. Chan Leng Wai Mission Representative Mr. Lim Loke Choy Old Paulians’ Association Representative Dato’ Lai See Ming DBNS, KMN, ANS, PJK ,KSLJ Old Paulians’ Association Representative Mr Tan Kok Chin Old Paulians’ Association Representative Mr. Steven Chan Weng Choy Parent-Teacher Association Representative Capt. Adrian Abraham Parent-Teacher Association Representative Dr. Mahadevan Deva Tata Parent-Teacher Association Representative Mdm. Yap Kwee Inn Asst Secretary Ms. Helen Paul Secretary Mr Kalaiselvam Muniandi Principal Treasurer Mr Ong Teck Seng 22 BOARD OF GOVERNORS 2021
PARENT- TEACHER ASSOCIATION 2020/2021 Mr. Lee Boon Seng Advisor Mr. Woo Yew Kong Chairman Mr. Lee Yeow Pong @ Vincent Vice-Chairman Mdm. Sharmini Balasingam Secretary Mdm. Chung Iee Lan Treasurer Mdm. Bhavna Patel Committee Member Mdm. Sutha Kesavan Committee Member Mr. Ng Chee Wah Alan Committee Member Mr. Arumugam Sangkaran Committee Membe Mdm. Zainah Musa Committee Member Mdm. Susila A/P Pavadai Committee Member Mdm. Shantini Thilaga Lingam Committee Member Mr. Yee Lian Choon Committee Member Mdm. Haliza Bte Muhamed Internal Auditor Mr. Amran Bin Senan Internal Auditor 23
PARENT- TEACHER ASSOCIATION 2021/2022 Mr. Kalaiselvam Muiandi Advisor Capt. Anton Adrian Gerard Abraham Chairman Mr. Yohananthan Vivegananthan Vice-Chairman Mdm. Agnes Ammal Thasan Secretary Mdm. Halimah Helena Kabindong Treasurer Dr. Tam Jenn Zheung Committee Member Dr. Mahadevan Deva Tata Committee Member Dr. Rokiah Binti Halim Committee Member Mr. Saravanan Balakrishnan Committee Member Mr. Kalianan Sinappan Committee Member Mdm. Bhavna Patel Committee Member Mdm. Yap Kwee Inn Committee Member Mdm Norhafini Bte Yusuf Committee Member Mdm. Nazirah Btei Alias Committee Member Mdm. C.M. Gunavathi Jeyaindran Committee Member Mdm. Haliza Bte Muhamed Internal Auditor Mr. Amran Bin Senan Internal Auditor 24
DATO’ DAVID WEE TOH KONG ADVISOR DATO’ LAI SEE MING HON. TREASURER DR. MAHADEVAN DEVA TATA VICE PRESIDENT MR STEVEN CHAN WENG CHOY PRESIDENT MR. A. DEVASAGAYAM COMMITTEE MEMBER MR. A. PARAANANTHAM HON. AUDITOR MR. JIWA NATHAN COMMITTEE MEMBER MR. LEE KOK KIONG VICE PRESIDENT MR. LEE NAM YEW COMMITTEE MEMBER MR. MICHAEL THONG HON. AUDITOR MR. NG YEE TIM VICE PRESIDENT MR. R. SAWARIMUTTHU COMMITTEE MEMBER MR. TAN KOK CHIN HON. SECRETARY MR. YAM KAIT WAH COMMITTTEE MEMBER OLD PAULIANS’ ASSOCIATION YB ANTHONY LOKE SIEW FOOK PATR0N 25
MDM SUSILA PAVADAI SENIOR ASSISTANT (STUDENT AFFAIRS) MR YEE LIAN CHOON SENIOR ASSISTANT (AFTERNOON SESSION) MR LEE BOON SENG PRINCIPAL MDM SHANTINI THILAGA LINGAM SENIOR ASSISTANT (CO-CURRICULUM) MDM NORHAYATI BINTI HASHIM HEAD OF THE SCIENCE & MATHS DEPARTMENT MDM M. SANTHI MARIMUTHU HEAD OF THE HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT MDM ROKIAH BINTI PENOH HEAD OF THE LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT MDM LEE SUI TING HEAD OF THE TECHNICAL & VOCATIONAL DEPARTMENT TORCHBEARERS - 2020 MR ARUMUGAM SANKARAN SENIOR ASSISTANT (ADMINISTRATION & ACADEMICS) ZAINAH BINTI MUSA SENIOR ASSISTANT (FORM SIX) 26
TORCHBEARERS - 2021 Mr Kalaiselvam Muniandi Principal Mr Mohamad Radzi Bin Md Zain Senior Assistant (Administration & Academics) Mdm Yap Kwee Inn Senior Assistant (Student Affairs) Mdm Shantini Thilaga Lingam Senior Assistant (Co-Curriculum) Mdm Samsiah Binti Ponding Senior Assistant (Form Six) Mdm Salina Binti Samsudin Senior Assistant (Afternoon Session) Mdm Rokiah Binti Penoh Head of The Language Department Mdm Norhayati Binti Hashim Head of The Science & Maths Department Mdm Lee Sui Ting Head of The Technical & Vocational Department Mdm M. Santhi Marimuthu Head of The Humanities Department 27
OFFICE STAFF SUPPORT STAFF Mdm. Norshuhaila Binti Mohd Zin Mdm. Faizah Binti Ad. Aziz Mdm. Markhaiza Binti Basri Mdm. Noorliyana Binti Johari Mdm. Nopaizah Binti Othman Mdm. Nor Az;in Binti Zainudin Mdm. Rosilawati Binti Mohamed Rawi Mdm. Rudzi Binti Omar Mr. Zahari Bin Mohd Zin Mr. Muhamad Jefry Bin Abdullah Mdm. Roseline, Mdm. Mariayee, Mdm. Magdaline, Mdm. Mahes, Mr. Mano and Mr Santo 28
Miss Lim Mei Leng 21 January 2020 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2020 29
Mdm. Cheok Yeng Hwa 06 March 2020 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2020 30
Mdm. Hjh Sabariah Binti Samsuri 16 February 2020 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2020 31
Mdm. Wee Seok Cheng 11 November 2020 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2020 32
Mr. Shamugam Raju 12 December 2020 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2020 33
Mdm. Soranam Victoria J. Appadurai21 January 2021 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 34
HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 04 March 2021 Mr. Abd Kadir Bin Mohd Ohm 35
Mdm. Zainah Binti Musa 01 June 2021 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 36
01 June 2021 Mdm. Suriati Binti Abu bakar HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 37
Mr. Lee Boon Seng 16 June 2021 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 38
Mr. Lee Boon Seng HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 PRINCIPAL MARCH 2017 - JUNE 2021 39
Mr Lee Boon Seng’s love affair with St. Paul’s Institution began when he took that fateful step into the primary school in 1968 as a young starry-eyed 6-year old…After completing his Year 6 there, he moved on to St. Paul’s Institution Secondary on Mont La Salle in 1974 where he remained and etched many a fond memory as a Paulian until 1978. Little did he know then that his Paulian journey was not quite done just yet… En. Lee Boon Seng telah melanjutkan pelajaran di Tingkatan Enam aliran sastera di SMK King George V, Seremban pada tahun 1979 hingga 1980. Menyahut seruan menara gading, beliau telah melanjutkan pelajaran ke Universiti Malaya pada tahun 1982 dan berjaya memperolehi ijazah Sarjana Muda Sastera (Kepujian) pada tahun 1985 dengan pengkhususan dalam bidang Sejarah dan Pengajian Melayu iaitu Linguistik. Diikuti dengan kursus Diploma Pendidikan di Universiti Malaya, dengan pengkhususan dalam subjek Sejarah dan Bahasa Melayu sehingga tahun 1986. Bukan sahaja ijazah diperolehi, tetapi juga jodoh ditemui… Encik Lee Boon Seng telah bertemu dengan pilihan hati yang cantik manis pada tahun 1982 semasa di menara gading, dan termeterai ikatan abadi apabila beliau berkahwin dengan buah hati pilihan Pn. See Bee Ean pada tanggal 7 Disember 1984. Setelah lapan tahun medirikan rumah tangga, En Lee Boon Seng dan isteri telah dianugerahi dengan kehadiran seorang cahaya mata pada 27 Mac 1993. Anak lelaki yang menjadi kebanggaan ibu bapanya, Dr. Lee Win Sern kini berusia 28 tahun dan sedang menaruh bakti di Hospital Pulau Pinang sebagai seorang doktor perubatan. Kerjaya En. Lee sebagai seorang guru bermula 35 tahun yang lalu apabila beliau melaporkan diri untuk bertugas buat kali pertama di SMJK Chung Hua Kuala Pilah pada 5 Mei 1986. Mungkin kita mengenali En. Lee Boon Seng sebagai seorang Pengetua yang berkaliber dan disegani…tetapi sebenarnya En. Lee mempunyai kepakaran dalam pelbagai bidang. Dalam arena sukan, En. Lee pernah menjadi Pengadil di peringkat kebangsaan dalam permainan Bola Tampar, dengan lantikan sebagai Pengadil Persatuan Amatur Bola Tampar Malaysia (MAVA). Beliau juga pernah menjadi pengadil bola tampar di peringkat MSSM. Dalam permainan Badminton, beliau pernah menjadi Jurulatih dan juga Pengadil. Tetapi sumbangan terkemuka beliau di arena sukan sekolah-sekolah adalah sebagai Pengerusi Teknik Bola Keranjang untuk daerah Kuala Pilah, disamping berkhidmat sebagai Pengadil Bola Keranjang. Bak kata bidalan Melayu ‘benih yang baik dilempar ke mana-manapun tetap memberikan hasil’... begitu juga dengan Encik Lee. Beliau merupakan seorang yang serba-boleh, bukan sekadar di arena sukan… En. Lee Boon Seng pernah diamanahkan berkongsi ilmu sebagai Pegawai Latihan PBSM Daerah Kuala Pilah, serta Jurulatih Utama Borang M Daerah Jempol-Jelebu. Kepakaran asas beliau sebagai seorang Guru Sejarah yang berwibawa tidak pernah diketepikan, malah En. Lee telah menjadi Pemeriksa Kertas Sejarah SPM selama beberapa tahun sambil menyemai cinta dan menyemarakkan minat pelajar dalam subjek kesayangan beliau, Sejarah. Kaliber serta potensi En. Lee Boon Seng sebagai seorang pentadbir jelas ternyata apabila dilihat senarai jawatan yang dipikul beliau. Pada usia 33 tahun, beliau telah mula menjalankan tugas sebagai Penolong Kanan Kokurikulum di SMJK Chung Hua Kuala Pilah pada 2 Januari 1995. Setelah melakar kejayaan cemerlang sebagai PK Kokurikulum selama hampir sembilan tahun, beliau dilantik sebagai Penolong Kanan Hal Ehwal Murid di sekolah yang sama pada 1 Oktober 2003. Setahun kemudian, En. Lee Boon Seng telah bertukar ke SMJK Chi Wen, Bahau, sebagai Guru Penolong Kanan 1 pada 16 April 2005. Suatu tugas dan tanggungjawab yang telah dilaksanakan dengan cemerlang selama enam tahun, sehingga membawa kepada lantikan beliau sebagai Pengetua SMJK Chi Wen pada 1 November 2011. Seorang pentadbir yang berwawasan serta dinamik, seorang Pengetua yang disegani, kejayaan paling terkemuka yang dikecapi oleh En. Lee Boon Seng adalah penghargaan yang diterima oleh beliau pada tahun 2014 sebagai penerima Bayaran Insentif Tawaran Baharu (BITP) atau lebih dikenali sebagai Bai’ah. Bayaran Insentif ini merupakan pengikhtirafan kecemerlangan kepimpinan sekolah yang berjaya mencatat peningkatan yang cemerlang – satu kejayaan besar untuk SMJK Chi Wen, Bahau di bawah kepimpinan Pengetua En. Lee Boon Seng. 40
Bagai sirih pulang ke gagang, detik bersejarah pada 16 Mac 2017 telah membawa pulang En. Lee Boon Seng ke SMK St. Paul. 39 tahun selepas meninggalkan bangku sekolah, beliau kembali ke pangkuan sekolah tercinta - kali ini, di jawatan tertinggi sebagai Pengetua. Berbekal semangat Paulian yang jitu, En. Lee Boon Seng telah dinobatkan sebagai Pengetua yang ke 24 St. Paul’s Institution, Seremban, dan diamanahkan untuk meneruskan usaha murni Pengetua-pengetua sebelumnya. Di bawah pimpinan beliau, SPI telah mencapai kejayaan demi kejayaan dalam bidang akademik dan juga kokurikulum. Kepimpinan En. Lee yang berwawasan dan dinamik jelas kelihatan melalui pencapaian cemerlang SMK St Paul dalam Peperiksaan SPM serta STPM dari tahun 2017 sehingga kini. Keputusan SPM 2020 yang diumumkan baru-baru ini menunjukkan peningkatan yang cemerlang dengan peningkatan Gred Purata Sekolah dari 4.64 ke 4.32 – hasil usaha perancangan terperinci tuan pengetua serta pelaksanaan bersungguh-sungguh oleh semua warga pendidik SPI yang menyahut cabaran beliau. Satu rekod yang menjadi hadiah perpisahan yang manis buat Tuan Pengetua. En. Lee adalah seorang yang sangat berdisiplin. An old English proverb goes “Early to bed, Early to rise, Makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.” Memang tepat sekali menggambarkan Tuan Pengetua yang bangun sebelum subuh setiap hari seawal pukul 4.30 pagi, untuk memulakan tugas harian dengan berkobarkobar. Mungkin ini rahsia kecemerlangan En. Lee yang perlu kita contohi. Beliau akan dikenang sebagai seorang pengetua yang tegas tetapi pada masa yang sama sentiasa prihatin demi kebaikan para guru dan pelajar. Ditambah dengan sifat ramah dan mudah bergaul dengan pelbagai lapisan warga SPI, menjadikan beliau disenangi oleh semua. Setelah menabur bakti demi anak bangsa selama 35 tahun, 1 bulan dan 10 hari, En. Lee Boon Seng bersara wajib pada tanggal 15 Jun 2021. Sudah selesai tanggungjawab yang diamanahkan, kini sampailah masanya untuk bergembira di samping keluarga. Bila keadaan mengizinkan nanti, semoga dapat meneruskan dengan kegemaran utama, iaitu melancong. Tetapi sehingga itu, memadailah dengan kegemaran kedua – iaitu memasak. Kami warga SPI mendoakan kesejahteraan dan kebahagiaan tuan pengetua bersama keluarga tercinta. It is only befitting that Paulian Lee Boon Seng has come full circle – and has been able to serve his Alma Mater with a love and dedication that comes from within. Once a Paulian, Always a Paulian. Mr Lee, in Paulian tradition, we leave you with an Irish Blessing to keep you warm… This is for you from all of us here in St. Paul’s Secondary : AN OLD IRISH BLESSING … -shantini lingamGod Bless You, Mr. Lee 41
Mr. Yee Lian Choon 19 November 2021 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 42
Mr. Arumugam Sankaran 20 November 2021 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 43
Mdm. Fadzalah Binti Khamis 01 December 2021 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 44
Mdm. Lye Yean Moi 01 December 2021 HAPPY RETIREMENT 2021 45
LASALLIAN H ERI TAGE FOUNDER’S DAY Saint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle was a French priest, educational reformer, and founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. He left his home in Rheims, France, to help poor boys study. John Baptist de La Salle was a pioneer in founding training colleges for teachers, reform schools for delinquents, technical schools, and secondary schools for modern languages, arts, and sciences. His work quickly spread through France and, after his death, continued to spread across the globe. It was the vision of St. John Baptiste De La Salle that gave way to the inception of St Paul’s Institution. The 2020, Founder’s Day was held in a completely different format in comparison to previous years. As we were all secluded at home, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was no possible way for the function to be held physically, due to school closure. The SPI PLC Club did not let this get in their way, though, as they powered through working from home to ensure that our founder, St John Baptiste De La Salle was celebrated and to instill the Paulian Spirit in the hearts of students, especially in the challenging times. They then made a video presentation, all made remotely, and as a team, which was then sent to all the class communication groups in the school. This proved to be a display of the hardworking nature of Paulians, alongside the unwavering Lasallian spirit that continues to burn brightly in our hearts. In 2021, we were still confined to our homes due to the pandemic, and with the SPI PLC Club under new administrative members, we decided to make another video presentation to spread the Lasallian spirit among the Paulians, and also to celebrate our founder. It was a harrowing experience, trying to coordinate all the members to produce the best video we possibly could, which we did, as we saw the fruits of our labor in full display. There were several sections to the video, with opening speeches, to the history of our school. We contacted the Alma Mater from St Paul’s Institution to say a few words on what it means to be a Lasallian. It was a very insightful experience, to get to hear from the Alma Mater themselves, as to how much of an impact studying at St . Paul’s Institution has brought to them. Our committee also managed to invite a Brother from Japan to give a short speech in the segment, as well. After weeks of preparation and hard work, we managed to produce a video that we are very proud of. This goes to show that no matter what, even in tumultuous times, the Lasallian spirit shall not waver, not under the circumstances that test our will, and never in the face of a challenge. We are very proud of the work we had done to celebrate our founder, and we really hope that the same unwavering spirit is imbued in the hearts of young Paulians to continue the tradition to ensure the Lasallian spirit continues to burn bright, all while withstanding the test of time. Prepared by, Sameer Monn, Vice President The Paulian LaSalle Conferers. FOUNDER’S DAY CELEBRATION 46
LIVE LEAD REFRESH CONFERENCE If there was one thing that the pandemic has taught us, it is that social interactions are absolutely essential to our health and wellbeing. Being in a pandemic, in turn, has taught us just that: how our social interactions shape the course of our lives and how important it is to sustain a healthy mind. LIVE LEAD REFRESH was an event organized by the Lasallian East Asia District. It is a formation and volunteer development program for Young Lasallians in the East Asia District. As the District celebrates its 10th year anniversary, this gathering of Young Lasallians will signify their renewal of commitment to be at the forefront of change and action towards social transformation. Due to constraints brought forward by the pandemic, the event had to be carried out online, with students participating from 7 countries, namely Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, Philippines, Myanmar, and Hong Kong. The conference was held for 6 weeks, on every Saturday. During the two hour meetings, there were many subjects that were touched on by guest speakers, and we, as participants, were often assigned to “breakout rooms” to carry out activities without designated groups, which consisted of other Lasallians from different countries. This, without fail, taught us the importance of teamwork and understanding, as we tried to carry out activities in groups without information being lost in translation. This event taught us so much about Lasallian core values, and the importance of upholding the lasallian values. In a beautifully strange way, connecting with other Lasallians from different countries really puts things into perspective for us: how there are thousands of students, across the globe, who are-- somehow, connected. How we all are driven by the same core values, by the same principles. It imbued a sense of family, one that goes against the test of distance, and how we are never really alone. We were required to carry out community projects, representing our country, Malaysia, and our school. Our school’s representative team decided to carry out 2 activities, the first one being called “Heart2Heart” and the second one, “HelpDesk”. These activities were carried out to realize the lasallian core values and give back to the community. Heart2heart was an event that we organized on Discord, where people could come on, and they could let all of their emotions out, and vent. We understood the effects of being lonely, especially in the pandemic. We wanted to be a listening year to people, to help them get things off their chest, without any judgement. It was an event of national scale. Students from all corners of our country joined and showed a very positive response to our efforts. HelpDesk, on the other hand, was designed to give students the chance to learn, especially in these difficult times, where we virtually covered multiple topics in different subjects to aid students in catching up to their syllabus in time, especially due to the constraints with studying at home. This event, as well, showed a positive response from students. Thank you so much to Manish, Sameer, Shivabala, Divesh, Bavesh, and Riishiie, under the guidance of Ms. Gunavathi Jeyandran for making this a wonderful learning curve as a Lasallian. At the end of the day, we as a team felt very lucky to be given the opportunity to partake in this event, because it did not just help us renew the Lasallian mission; it also helped us make new friends and learn how to work better in teams. The bond of the team members definitely strengthened in the course of this event, and in a way, it was profound knowing that in a strange sense, we are never alone, for the Lasallian spirit exists where we seek it, for our schools are our second home, and home is where the heart is. We are extremely grateful to have been given the chance to be of service to the last, the lost, and the least. Virtute Et Labore. Prepared by, Sameer Monn, Vice President of Paulian Lasalle Conferers LASALLIAN YOUTH CONVENTION LASALLIAN H ERI TAGE 47
The year was 1988. Barely into my second year of teaching, I reported fresh-faced to my new posting in N. Sembilan, having just gotten a transfer from Sabah. Being a Malacca boy, I knew not a soul in Negeri. My Senior Assistant, En. Jamali Salam referred me to a Gana. I met this Gana guy and asked him for help to arrange for accommodation and transport. He struck me as a simple and straightforward person. Little did I know that ours was a friendship that was destined to last. His mother called him Nyanakumaran (Son of Wisdom) which I guessed was lost in transliteration to become Ganakumaran. (Son of Song). Quite a big jump there, between wisdom and song! (now, that’s a nugget only an elite few know!) He was quite the popular teacher in school, I observed. He had coached the girls hockey team to become national champions.He was a dedicated teacher acknowledged for his compassion. He was even known to help out with groceries for the poorest among his hockey players. The school CC, En. Razali once remarked: “Gana ni, perikemanusiaan dia tinggi sikit!”. Words that I remember to this day. His leadership qualities shone through even then: he once stepped up spontaneously on stage to do an on-the-spot French auction at a school fund-raiser. And very successfully, I might add. (In later years, he was to be an intrepid fund-raiser for SPI Primary.) The organisation of MALeC 7 2017 (Malaysian Lasallian Educators’ Conference 7 2017) by a team led by Prof. Dr. Gana was widely praised by all for its smooth execution. Where lesser leaders turned paralysed shirkers, he stepped up to assume leadership on behalf of the School Administrations, Old Paulians’ Association (OPA) and Board of Governors (BOG). Indeed, the success of MALeC 7 led to him being invited as a consultant for the next national edition of MALeC in Taiping. Few have the privilege of returning to work and serve in their hometown. Gana had the distinction of contributing to the Seremban community and his alma mater. Ms Shantini, Senior Assistant (Co-curriculum) of SPI, who was his contemporary in the N.S. Ceylonese Association, recalls how Dr. Gana was involved in various activities of the association through the 80’s. Likewise, SPI ex-teacher, Ms Komathy, relates how they organized literature workshops under his guidance. She remembers fondly his care and concern for undergrads as a lecturer on literature during his UKM days. Being a former teacher himself, he was particularly close to teachers who were pursuing their degrees while in service. As President of Malaysian English Language Teaching Association (MELTA) from 2008 till 2019, the Prof. was instrumental in setting up various state chapters. His views on English education were constantly sought after by the media including on national policies such as ETeMS (English for Teaching Mathematics and Science) and DLP (Dual Language Programme). PAULIAN OF DISTINCTION GANA IN MEMORY Professor Dr. Ganakumaran Subramaniam 48
He held various positions at various times in the PTA and BOG of both SPI Primary and Secondary; as committee member and Chairman, he was constantly trying to bring the schools to the next level. All through his life, he was seldom far from his beloved SPI. Parents will still remember how the Prof. will help to manage traffic at SPI Primary in the mornings before going off to work. Humility has a name. PTA AGMs at SPI Secondary were seldom complete without Gana’s presence. And present he will be, with his retinue of parents. Though he may have been a nightmare to many a Principal, he always conducted himself in gentlemanly fashion: commenting, questioning and contributing. His work defined him. He did his job. He became the job. Not one to shirk the clarion call of duty, he was working till the end, unaware (even unconcerned, perhaps) of the inevitable. He even postponed his personal health concerns, giving priority to his work. Our last and enduring image of him will be Gana with his inseparable laptop blissfully typing away unaware that it was to be his last day. The Prof. was a professional to the end. Mahatma Gandhi once said: if you want to be remembered, help others. Thus, for his help and service, Prof. Dr. Gana will always be in our hearts. Goodbye, Gana. S. Arumugam Sankaran Senior Assistant (2006 – 2021) St. Paul’s Institution Seremban 49