(From right) SXI Penang brother director Brother Jason Blaikie, Tan, Board of Governors treasurer Jeffrey Chew and old Xaverians posing with a mock cheque for RM68,888 beside the donated rainwater harvesting system. — KT GOH/The Star
IN A gesture that embodies their “Honouring the Past, Building for the Future” reunion theme, St Xavier’s Institution (SXI) Class of ‘85/’87 gifted their alma mater a new rainwater harvesting system.
This sustainable installation serves as a tribute to their late schoolmate, Bernard Lim Peng Aun, who passed away of a heart attack earlier this year, and reflects his lifelong dedication to innovation and social impact.
The sixth official reunion of the Class of ‘85/‘87’s drew 154 former students and 17 ex-teachers to the school’s Heah Joo Seang Hall.
SXI Board of Governors chairman Victor Tan praised the initiative.
He said the system, costing about RM10,000, would help the school save money in the long run as the collected water would be used to water plants and keep the SXI clean.
“This gift of a rainwater system is a perfect reflection of how one person’s spirit can continue to make a difference.
“We are humbled and inspired by the Class of ‘85/‘87’s generosity,” said Tan.
The reunion also served as a platform to raise funds for the much-needed upgrade of SXI’s school field.
This historic field, dating back to 1911, was purchased by Catholic De La Salle Brothers for $99,550 (Straits dollars).
The field has witnessed significant historical moments, including its transformation into a makeshift “attap school” after SXI’s main building was bombed during World War II.
Today, it faces challenges such as hard ground conditions, poor drainage and seasonal flooding.
With 1,300 students depending on it for sports and co-curricular activities, the field needs an overhaul, Tan said.
“The RM1.4mil planned upgrade will include excavation and drainage works, and re- turfing of the football field at a cost of RM430,000,” said Tan.
“It will also see the installation of a 300m synthetic track (RM780,000) and facilities for field events (RM190,000).
“So far, RM100,000 has been pledged by the Penang government while the SXI Board of Governors has committed RM200,000.
“The reunion raised RM68,888, a testament to the commitment of Xavierians to their alma mater,” Tan said.
To raise the amount needed, Tan announced that the school will hold the SXI Run 2025 on Sept 21.
“We hope to attract 1,000 people to take part in the run.
“We also welcome sponsors and community involvement.
“Various donation tiers are available. These include title sponsor (RM30,000), gold (RM10,000), silver (RM5,000) and bronze (RM1,000), with all contributions being tax-exempt,” he said, adding that sponsorships, student entries and in-kind donations are welcome.
Participants will each receive a finisher’s medal, certificate of participation and T-shirt.
There are also lucky draw prizes and cash prizes for selected categories.
For donation and sponsorship enquiries, call Tan at 019-480 6556.
To register for the run, visit https://www.ticket2u.com.my/event/43601
