ONE of Penang’s oldest schools, SK Wellesley, celebrated its 100th anniversary in grand style this morning with a lively and colourful 4km fun run!
Parents and children, dressed in matching dark blue shirts, began arriving at the school compound as early as 6.30am, filling the air with excitement and anticipation.
The cheerful flag-off ceremony took place at 7.45am, officiated by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who joined in the school’s momentous centennial celebration.
SK Wellesley headmaster Saravanan Krishnan said the main purpose of organising the ‘Centenary Stride SK Wellesley 100 Years Run’ was to raise funds for repainting the school’s historic building.
“The fun run is part of the school’s effort to support our building repainting project, which holds deep historical significance,” he said.
Chow, in his speech, congratulated SK Wellesley for achieving this remarkable milestone, calling it a proud moment not only for the school community but also for the entire Penang education fraternity.
“This is a truly meaningful and historic occasion not just for SK Wellesley, but for all who value education in Penang.
“Today’s event, the Centenary Stride SK Wellesley 100 Years Run, is more than just a recreational activity.
“It symbolises the school’s century-long journey of excellence in nurturing, guiding, and shaping thousands of individuals into knowledgeable, disciplined, and principled citizens,” Chow said before flagging off the run.
Also present were Penang Education Department director Datuk Abdul Said Hussain, who is also an SK Wellesley alumnus, and Parents and Teachers Association (PIBG) chairman Mohamed Rizwan Abdul Ghafoor Khan.
Reflecting on the school’s century-long journey, Chow said 100 years was a significant span filled with challenges, changes, and achievements.
“Since 1925, SK Wellesley has stood as a cornerstone of primary education in the state.
“The school has not only produced outstanding students but also instilled values of leadership, unity, and discipline among generations of young learners.
“This year’s theme, ‘100 Years of Excellence’, perfectly embodies the spirit upheld by the school community that excellence is not a destination, but a continuous journey toward a brighter future,” he added.
Chow added that with visionary leadership and the unwavering commitment of its staff, students, and parents, he is confident that SK Wellesley will continue to shine as an institution that not only excels academically but also shapes individuals of character, integrity, and compassion.
“Happy 100th Anniversary, SK Wellesley! May the legacy of excellence built over the past century continue to flourish and inspire generations for the next hundred years,” he concluded.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Law Suun Ting