The original site of SK Matang Gelugor (left) is remembered in the commemorative book marking the school’s 200 years.
THE oldest school in Perak is celebrating its bicentenniary with a legacy exhibition.
SK Matang Gelugor, located in Larut, Matang and Selama District, is marking turning 200 years old this year with a display at its new Galeri Persona Mutiara.
The exhibition spotlights the primary school’s legacy while raising awareness about its historical significance.
“The original building, which is a now kindergarten, stands as a silent witness to the early struggles of Malay education.
“It offers an authentic setting to preserve the school’s historical atmosphere,” said headmistress Rohaya Ahmad at the bicentenary proclamation and gallery opening by Perak infrastructure committee chairman Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin.
The school was established in 1826 by two iconic figures, Che Long Jaafar Long Abdul Latif, who discovered tin ore in Larut, and Ngah Ibrahim, who was the district headman and administrator.
Originally called Sekolah Melayu Matang Gelugor, it was a centre for Quranic studies before expanding to Islamic religious education and Jawi writing.
The original building was a hut with thatched roof, bamboo walls and earthen floor.
In 1946, it was renamed Sekolah Umum Matang Gelugor before the final name change in 1957.
In 1983, a two-storey building with six classrooms was built about 200m away from the original site.
The school has been gazetted and recognised by Muzium Perak as the first school in the state.
Rohaya said several activities had been planned in conjunction with the anniversary.
“We have launched a book about the school, Antologi Persona Mutiara Sambutan 200 Tahun, and we are planning to hold a fun run.”
Rohaya said the school currently had 119 pupils, 11 teachers and four staff members.
“Each primary level has just one class, with 15 to 28 pupils.
Mohammad Nizar (left) visiting Galeri Persona Mutiara, where the school’s legacy is on display. At right is Rohaya.
“As a small school, we are able to give more focus and closer guidance to our pupils.
“We make sure that even those who struggle academically are not left behind.”
Mohammad Nizar said the school’s growth reflected its strong bond with the local community and efforts to uphold education.
“Continuous support from villagers over generations led to construction of new buildings, symbolising the school’s development through collective community involvement.
“As such, it is our shared responsibility to ensure this school continues to be valued and preserved as an institution that shapes the future of our children.
“I also hope that even more successful individuals will emerge from this institution.”
