Ong (left) presenting a mock cheque to Mohaideen at the Old Edwardians reunion dinner in Taiping.
SOME 500 old boys of King Edward VII School in Taiping, Perak, gathered for their annual reunion dinner in the town.
The 55th reunion, which saw Old Edwardians coming from around Malaysia and all the way from the US, United Kingdom, Australia and Singapore, also welcomed old boy and Pokok Assam assemblyman Ong Seng Guan as guest of honour.
Welcoming them was Old Edwardians Association Malaysia president Mohaideen Mohd Ishak, who said in his address: “We enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with our friends and teachers through this annual dinner.”
He added that Ong’s presence this year had helped the alumni create new memories together.
Mohaideen also spoke about the association’s tradition of organising various annual activities, including the Piala Yeoh Teng Khoo rugby match and Piala Edward Mai Mang Lee hockey game between the school team and old boys.
He said organising these tournaments showed the association’s commitment towards developing sports in the school and state.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to our regular sponsors who have been contributing generously to make these tournaments a success.”
He added that their cordial relationship with the school had enabled the association to support other activities, such as providing scholarships to needy students.
“Under the Long Heng Hua University Scholarship, we have been giving financial aid to students for their tertiary education in public universities.
“Apart from this, we have also been giving other scholarships amounting to almost RM20,000 per year,” said Mohaideen.
He congratulated the school rugby and football teams for their excellent performance in national tournaments.
Ong, meanwhile, presented RM10,000 to the association to fund their activities.
“King Edward VII School holds a special place in my heart as it does for many of us,” said Ong.
“It is where we embarked on our educational journeys, forged lifelong friendships and imbibed values that continue to shape our lives.
“The lessons learned within the school walls – those of resilience, integrity and community spirit – have left an indelible mark on each of us,” he said.
Crediting the reunion organising committee, Ong said: “Your efforts have ensured that tonight is a momentous occasion filled with joy, camaraderie and renewed connections.”
The assemblyman encouraged his fellow Old Edwardians to celebrate individual achievements and honour the school’s enduring legacy.
“Our alma mater has empowered us to excel in various fields and to contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
He also urged the old boys to carry forward values instilled in them at the school.
“With integrity, compassion and a commitment to lifelong learning, let us continue to uphold the spirit of unity and excellence that defines our alma mater,” he said.
