IN A world where staying in touch often means scrolling through social media, a group of former schoolmates from Penang choose to stay connected the old-fashioned way.
The former students of St George’s Girls’ School in George Town have made it a point to meet in person regularly over the years, for festive gatherings and annual trips.
For the women from the Class of 1983, nothing compares to sharing laughter face-to-face, reliving memories and strengthening bonds formed decades ago in school.
And for their reunion at age 60, it was a sun-drenched trip to Phuket, Thailand, with local food, shopping, cabaret shows, spa sessions, dinners and water activities.
Former hotelier Mimi Kam, who organised their “Sassy at Sixty!” reunion, said 25 former students attended the gathering, with some flying in from as far as the US, United Kingdom and Australia.
“Despite coming from different backgrounds and professions, we have remained united by friendships forged since our schooldays, some as early as Standard One and others from Form One,” said Kam.
“Our commitment to staying connected has also taken us to various destinations, including Pulau Tenggol (Terengganu), Penang Hill, Taiping and Gopeng (Perak), with a larger gathering previously held in Langkawi (Kedah) when we turned 50.”
She said the Phuket trip featured a host of activities.
“The highlight was a private catamaran trip to Racha Island, where we spent time snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming.”
There were also two group dinners, she said, where the Old Girls relived childhood memories through nostalgic snacks.
Custom keepsakes, including a wooden coaster featuring the school logo of St George on a horse and each person’s name, were handed out to attendees, alongside hand-drawn hats sponsored by another former student.
The women turned up in matching red and white outfits, reflecting their school colours.
Kam said the reunion brought back memories of classroom pranks, shared victories and teachers who had left a lasting impression.
The group also remembered classmates who had passed away, a reminder of how precious time is.
In the evenings, they caught up in hotel rooms and restaurants, with their lively chatter drawing attention more than once.
Kam said there was a special meaning in turning 60 together.
“A 60th reunion reminds us that while our bodies may be a bit slower and our hair a bit thinner, the core of who we are remains tethered to those hallways and playgrounds.
“We are the keepers of each other’s stories.
“We are still sassy at 60 and will remain so into our 70s!”
