A STRONG spirit of loyalty and enduring attachment to alma mater was evident at the 135th anniversary dinner of Methodist Boys’ School (MBS) Penang, as generations of alumni, educators, donors and community members gathered to celebrate the institution’s long history and continued relevance.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, in his address at the Moral Uplifting Society on Macalister Road this evening, said the gathering reflected the deep bonds between the school and its former students, noting that such loyalty remains a defining feature of MBS and many English-medium schools of the past.
“That spirit of loyalty can also be seen in the generosity of donors and former students who continue to support their alma mater. I would like to thank all contributors who have stepped forward to support the school’s future development,” he said.
He said this sense of belonging was anchored in the school’s long-standing values and motto, “Whatsoever Things Are True”, which he described as a guiding principle that has shaped generations of students.
“The school’s motto, ‘Whatsoever Things Are True,’ has stood the test of time. It is a simple phrase, yet it carries a profound message. It reminds us to uphold truth, integrity, honesty and moral courage in all that we do. It will continue to guide future generations as they navigate an increasingly complex world,” he said.
He added that the motto has guided MBS students for 135 years and remains just as relevant today.
The Penang state government, he noted, has remained a consistent supporter of MBS, allocating RM100,000 earlier this year for the construction of a new academic block. Over the past 18 years, the school has also received approximately RM1.3 million under the state’s assistance programme for Chinese and mission schools.
Tracing the school’s heritage, Chow said MBS Penang’s remarkable journey began in 1891 when it was founded by Reverend Benjamin H. Balderstone and Daniel D. Moore with just a single student in a shophouse on Carnarvon Street.
“It started with just one student, but it has grown into one of the country’s most respected educational institutions,” he said.
He also paid tribute to early pioneer Reverend G.F. Pykett, affectionately known as “Pa Boksu”, whose dedication helped expand enrolment and strengthen the school in its formative years.
Chow said MBS has since produced a wide range of distinguished alumni, including former prime minister the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and former Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, who was present at the event.
He added that the school’s emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) was timely, given Malaysia’s evolving economic needs.
“Industries today require highly skilled talent in areas such as automation, semiconductors, engineering and advanced manufacturing. That is why I believe MBS is on the right path. By investing in TVET and STEM education, the school is preparing students for future opportunities while supporting Malaysia’s ambition to become a high-income and advanced economy,” he said.
He congratulated the Board of Governors, school leadership, teachers, alumni and organising committee for the successful celebration, expressing confidence that MBS Penang, by remaining true to its motto, will continue to inspire and shape future generations.
Also present at the anniversary dinner were North East District Education Officer Baharuddin Hashim, MBS Penang Board of Governors chairman Dr Khoo Cheok Kau, Bishop of Methodist Church in Malaysia Reverend Dr T. Jeyakumar, MBS Building Committee chairman Datuk Seri Jerry Chan, Fundraising Committee chairman Datuk Ong Eng Bin and vice-chairman Lim Siew Phaik, members of the Board of Governors, alumni, teachers, students, donors and distinguished guests.
Meanwhile, Dr Khoo said the celebration was held to honour the past, celebrate the present, and build for the future.
He noted that the school established a Heritage Centre in 2011 to recognise and celebrate former students who have made their mark in various fields, including Dr Koh, and the late Datuk Teh Kew San, who captained the victorious 1967 Malaysian Thomas Cup team.
Dr Khoo also expressed his appreciation to all donors who contributed generously towards the TVET Building Fund for a new two-storey facility, estimated to cost RM3 million.
“The facility is intended to nurture an industry-ready generation with practical skills in automotive and mechatronics, culinary arts, pastry and hospitality, information technology and digital programming, electrical and electronics engineering, and civil engineering and construction,” he said.
Touching on the school’s motto, Dr Khoo said character building has long been part of the DNA of mission schools such as MBS.
Rev Dr Jeyakumar said that for generations, the mission school has been committed to providing holistic education that nurtures not only academic excellence, but also character, integrity, compassion, and service.
“We believe that education should prepare young people not merely for examinations, but for life,” he said.
He added that as the world changes rapidly, new industries, technologies, and opportunities require new skills. Hence, educators and community leaders have a responsibility to ensure that students are equipped to thrive in this evolving landscape.
As MBS embarks on the TVET Building Project, he called on former students, parents, and friends to support the fundraising efforts.
“This initiative is not about simply constructing another building. It is about opening doors of opportunity. It is about enabling young people to discover their talents, develop practical skills, and pursue meaningful careers that contribute to the growth and prosperity of our nation,” he said.
The evening also featured performances by the Boys’ Brigade, several student drummers, and a three-member live band. Attendees were treated to good food, and the celebration was further enlivened by a lucky draw, with some of the 500 attendees going home with prizes.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissala Thian