STUDENTS must embrace technological advancements while remaining grounded in strong values and humanity to ensure that progress benefits society, says Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib.
Tun Ramli, accompanied by his consort Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah, attended Penang Free School’s (PFS) 210th anniversary prize-giving ceremony, marking more than two centuries of the institution’s contribution to education and nation-building.
Speaking at the ceremony, Tun Ramli said the school had witnessed various phases of the country’s development and continued to adapt to changing times while preserving its traditions and values.
“For 210 years, this school has witnessed the evolution of the nation, gone through various phases of change and nurtured generations of students who have gone on to contribute to society,” he said.
Tun Ramli said the school’s recognition as a National Heritage site in 2018 reflected its significance not only as an educational institution but also as a repository of the nation’s history and heritage.
He said many students had passed through the school, with each generation carrying forward its values and legacy.
He also described the school’s motto as more than just words displayed on its premises, saying it represented values that should be reflected in the character and conduct of its students.
On the theme of the 210th anniversary celebration, which focused on digital transformation and empowering future generations, Tun Ramli urged students to make meaningful use of technology.
He said technological advancements should not only be used to expand knowledge but also to develop creativity, innovation and wisdom.
“Technology can open new opportunities and broaden our horizons, but the human values that guide how we use it remain important,” he said.
Tun Ramli stressed that knowledge and technological progress must be accompanied by ethics, culture and humanity.
He encouraged students to become knowledgeable, responsible and wise individuals who could make sound decisions while upholding good values and contributing to society.
He also congratulated the award recipients and recognised the achievements of students in science and technology, arts and culture, sports and various competitions.
Tun Ramli said true success should not be measured solely by achievements, but also by the positive impact and values one leaves behind for others and society.
Following the speeches, Tun Ramli and other guests presented certificates and awards to students from Form One through Upper Six in recognition of their achievements.
Awards were also presented to the best-performing student from each form.
PFS principal Mohd Mukhrizam Mohd Mokhtar thanked and expressed his appreciation to former students and alumni for their dedication in making the ceremony a success.
He said such efforts helped strengthen the bond between the school and its alumni.
He also expressed hope that the award recipients would continue to excel in the future and contribute to the country and community.
PFS Foundation president Ivan Ooi Jieun Vei said the world faced by students today was vastly different from that experienced by previous generations.
“Artificial intelligence, robotics, data science and digital technologies are transforming education and the workplace. While we must preserve the traditions and character that make Penang Free School unique, we must equally ensure that the next generation is equipped for the future,” he said.
School captain V. Haavinesh described the 210th anniversary as a testament to the institution’s enduring legacy of excellence, tradition and character-building.
He said generations of students had benefited from the school’s values and culture, which continued to shape young people into responsible members of society.
At the end of the celebration, Tun Ramli and Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin proceeded to a luncheon held as part of the programme.
Also present was former school representative Prof Danny Quah.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En