SMK (P) PUDU celebrated the launch of a new block aimed at enhancing the teaching and learning environment of the girls’ school founded in Kuala Lumpur in 1914.
“It is a great celebration for SMK (P) Pudu, Jalan Foss, as the newly completed four-storey academic building represents a significant investment in the school’s future and is designed to support academic excellence and student well-being,” said school board of governors chairman Janet Kandilis during the launch.
She said plans for the block began in 2017, with groundbreaking in November 2019.
“We celebrate not simply the completion of a building, but the fulfilment of a shared vision.
“It is an opportunity to honour the remarkable legacy of the late Tan Sri Dr Lee Yan Lian.
“His generosity and commitment to education continue through the Lee Yan Lian Charitable Foundation whose generous donation of RM2mil made this academic building possible,” she added.
She described the project, costing an estimated RM4mil, as testament to the collective commitment of the school community to provide a high-quality learning environment and resolve long-standing space shortage.
Earlier during the event, a 13-member Xuan Long Lion Dance troupe ushered in Lee Yan Lian Charitable Foundation chairman Henry Lee Eng Ngah, the Bishop of West Malaysia the Right Rev Dr Stephen Soe, Cheras MP Tan Kok Wai’s representative and Kuala Lumpur advisory board member Janice Choo, students, parents, educators, community leaders and guests.
Henry signed a commemorative plaque that drew thunderous applause, underscoring the importance of community involvement in education.
Also present were the school’s building committee chairman Datuk Tan Koon Teck, Kuala Lumpur Education Department school management sector deputy director Aziah Amir and Henry’s wife Janet.
The event featured a 24 festive drums performance and a well-crafted dance medley combining traditional music and dance.
SMK (P) Pudu principal Liow Miin Yi said the new building stood for the collective effort to advance education and nurture the holistic development of Malaysia’s future generations.
“We have 522 students and 51 teachers,” she added.
Soe said SMK (P) Pudu was one of 17 mission schools under the Anglican church, and with the new building, would foster better academic achievement.
“The opening of the building marks a new chapter in the school’s development that reflects the continued commitment to strengthening educational infrastructure and creating an environment where students can thrive academically,” he said.
On the Summer Feel Carnival held at the school, Kandilis said it was organised to raise funds for furniture and fittings.
“We are still raising funds for facilities such as the computer laboratory, student canteen, counselling room and other essential fittings.
“We still need an estimated RM370,000,” she said.
Kandilis called on the community for continued financial support to ensure the building serves as a learning and development space for students and educators alike.
