Retirees of the International Languages Teacher Training Institute gathered for their inaugural reunion on June 15, 2025 at Eastin Hotel in Petaling Jaya, which coincided with the 25th anniversary of IPBA's establishment. — IPBA retirees
On June 15, 2025, the retirees of Institut Perguruan Bahasa-Bahasa Antarabangsa (IPBA), or the International Languages Teacher Training Institute, gathered for their inaugural reunion at the Eastin Hotel in Petaling Jaya.
The idea for the reunion was proposed by Datin Dr Raja Mazuin Raja Abd Aziz and her close-knit group of 10 friends, all of whom wholeheartedly embraced the suggestion.
They felt it was high time to reconnect with fellow Yang Bersara (YBs), many of whom they had not seen for years.
The reunion gave the retirees a chance to catch up and rekindle the strong bonds formed during their time together at IPBA – the place where many of their friendships began.
This gathering was especially meaningful, as it coincided with the 25th anniversary of IPBA’s establishment.
Although the institution is now officially known as IPGKBA, the original name IPBA still resonates deeply with those connected to it.
Over the past quarter-century, IPBA has produced thousands of teachers and educators, both from Malaysia and abroad.
IPBA stands out for being the only teacher training institute in Malaysia dedicated to producing educators in international languages – namely French, Japanese, German, and Korean.
It also played a key role in training English language teachers under twinning programmes with international universities including Macquarie University, Queensland University of Technology, Auckland University, Victoria University of Wellington, the College of St Mark and St John (UK), and Canterbury Christ Church University (UK).
The twinning programmes which spanned more than 10 years, beginning from 2002, produced over 700 English teachers, most of whom now serve in schools across Malaysia.
IPBA’s global recognition was further elevated through its involvement in the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), conducting courses for educators from more than 30 countries across Asia, Africa, Oceania, Europe and South America.
The YBs bonded strongly as they worked tirelessly to ensure the success of both the international and local programmes.
After all, they were representing the face of Malaysian education. In upholding Malaysia’s educational standards, they also successfully managed to foster international goodwill.
These shared experiences created bonds that endured well into retirement – making the 2025 reunion not just a social event, but a celebration of decades of shared service and commitment. It is thus no surprise that more than 70% of the YBs attended the inaugural reunion.
The reunion began on a lively note, as committee members surprised everyone with a vibrant dance performance to the tune of Stand By Me. Datin Dr Raja Mazuin gave a heartfelt welcoming speech, with a touching Malay poem that captured the spirit of the event.
Attendees were treated to a 20-minute slideshow on IPBA’s history, bringing smiles and nostalgic sighs as old photos brought the past vividly back to life.
Adding to the festive atmosphere were lively performances by fellow retirees. Aslam Khan moved the audience with his rendition of My Way, his signature song in IPBA; while Norhazian Mat Sapian, IPBA’s very own dance diva, delighted everyone with a medley of traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian dances, earning resounding applause.
The reunion also commemorated IPBA’s 25th anniversary with a cake-cutting ceremony. Dr Mohd Sofi Ali, IPBA’s longest-serving former director, was given the honour.
Attendees were treated to a buffet lunch and many took time to reconnect, share stories, and take photographs.Until we meet again, dear friends: stay safe, stay healthy, and stay happy. God bless.
