MELAKA: At least five generations of Malaysians since 1910 have passed through its hallowed halls, and during the Second World War, it housed the short-lived Japanese colonial administration.
But today, the roof of SMK Methodist (ACS) in Tengkera leaks when it rains, the blackboards are collapsing, and some of the 115-year-old school’s tables and chairs have not been changed since the 1970s.
To preserve and continue the legacy of the storied missionary school, the school’s alumni are organising a dinner and campaign to raise funds for the institution.
“We are undertaking a comprehensive upgrade, from rewiring the entire building to replacing study tables and chairs that have been in use since the 1970s,” the school’s Old Boys Association vice-president, Tan Kim Yoke, said.
Tan said they also aim to refurbish the teachers’ room and repaint all the classrooms.
“Our goal is to create a conducive space for learning where students feel inspired and teachers feel supported,” he said during a Chromebook presentation and the launch of the school’s 115th anniversary celebration.
Tan said the alumni are also committed to modernising the school’s teaching system.
“We aim to digitalise our education delivery in line with today’s evolving landscape while ensuring a safe and inspiring environment for both students and teachers,” he added.
Also present at the event was Kota Melaka MP Khoo Poay Tiong.
He said his committee members also hoped that more former students would join the campaign to rebuild the school.
“The involvement of the alumni is not only crucial for funding but it also inspires current students. We want to instil a spirit of loyalty and pride by connecting generations through a shared heritage,” he said.
The organising chairman of the school’s 115th anniversary celebration, Rodney Tan Chai Whatt, said the fund-raising dinner will be held on Sept 13 at a restaurant in Cheng, offering 100 tables for donors.
