THE sound of bagpipes and drums greeted hundreds of students, teachers, alumni and guests at St Xavier’s Institution (SXI) in George Town as they gathered to honour veteran teacher and chief counsellor James Koay Aik Hwa on his retirement after four decades in education.
The ceremony on July 24 marked Koay’s 24 years and seven months at SXI, where he was known as both a History teacher and chief counsellor who helped students through academic and personal challenges.
The farewell ended with Koay leaving the school in a Porsche 911 GT3 RS driven by his friend, Shenny Tan.
The car was followed by two Porsche Carrera S sports cars and a BMW 750e carrying his friends and former classmates Datuk Peppe Foo, Datuk Christopher Barnabas, V. Mohan and Datuk Victor Chai.
Born in Penang on July 25, 1966, Koay received his primary education at SK La Salle before continuing at SM La Salle and later St Xavier’s Institution.
He trained at Kinta Teacher’s Training College in Ipoh from 1987 to 1989 before starting his teaching career at SK Kemahang 1 in Tanah Merah, Kelantan, in 1990.
While teaching, he completed a Bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science through distance learning in 2000.
Koay returned to Penang in 1996 to teach at SK St Xavier Cawangan before joining SXI in 2002.
Although he taught History, he became best known as the school’s chief counsellor, a post he held from 2007 until his retirement.
Former colleague Ian William Powell recalled Koay’s calm demeanour, including an incident when a student chased him with a stick.
“He simply walked away quietly. I was there – I saw it myself.
“If you thought he was an outstanding History teacher, his work as a counsellor showed just how good he was at helping students solve their problems.”
SXI senior assistant (administration) Teh Chin Joo said Koay’s impact went beyond teaching.
“The role of a guidance and counselling teacher requires patience, wisdom, empathy and sincerity in helping young people discover their potential, make good decisions and grow into people of character and integrity.”
He said many students who sought Koay’s guidance overcame personal difficulties, gained confidence and went on to do well in their studies and personal development.
Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai praised Koay’s commitment to education and community service.
He highlighted Koay’s years of service as a committee member of the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta.
“As chairman of the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta, I have worked with Koay over the years. I have seen his dedication, reliability and willingness to serve.”
During his service, Koay received the Pingat Jasa Kebaktian in 2011, Pingat Kelakuan Terpuji in 2017 and Darjah Johan Negeri in 2025.
He received the Excellent Service Award in 2009 and 2024.
Reflecting on his years at SXI, Koay urged the school community to stay true to its mission.
“We are here primarily for the students, especially the last, the lost and the least who need us the most while we pursue academic excellence,” he said.
“We must not forget why we are here. The legacy that has been built for 174 years is something to be proud of and should continue.”
He urged Xaverians to persevere through challenges and remember the school’s motto.
“Never give up, no matter what happens. And never forget our school motto, Labor Omnia Vincit – Work Conquers All,” he said.
Present were SXI Board of Governors chairman Victor Tan, board member Tan Sri Ong Gim Huat, SXI Brother director Jason Balikie, Parent-Teacher Association chairman Lee Heng Seng and Old Xaverians Association vice-president Albert Wong.
