Honouring a Legacy: SJIS Celebrates Founder’s Day With Unity, Gratitude And Hope

In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the spirit of La Salle came alive on 16 May 2025 as St. John’s International Secondary School and St. John’s International Primary School joined hands with St. John’s Institution and SK St. John to celebrate Founder’s Day. The event reflected a deep commitment to the values and mission of St. John Baptist de La Salle, the pioneer of modern education and a tireless advocate for the youth.

Held at SK St. John’s Hall, the celebration began with the arrival of students, educators and special guests. The atmosphere was filled with pride and reverence as the national anthem was played, followed by a stirring bagpipe performance and a choir ensemble featuring voices from across the participating schools. The prefects of St. John’s Institution then led the prefect pledge, reinforcing values of leadership, respect and service.

A touching video montage reflected on the shared Lasallian journey, reminding all present of the strength of a united educational mission. In his keynote address, Brother Butch Alcudia emphasized the lasting relevance of De La Salle’s philosophy in shaping ethical and resilient young minds for an evolving world.

Among the esteemed guests were Mr. Michael Simon, Chairman of the Board of Governors of SK St. John’s and St. John’s Institution Kuala Lumpur, and Mr. James Sia, Honorary Secretary of the Malaysian Federation of Lasallian Alumni Associations. Representing the Board of Governors of St. John’s International Primary and Secondary Schools were Ms. Anne Rajasaikaran, Tuan Megat Mizan Nicholas Denney and Mr. Lim Hock Thiam, whose presence underscored the Lasallian spirit of shared leadership and unity. Also in attendance were Professor Dr. George (Principal of St. John’s International Secondary School), Ms. Mehala (Principal of St. John’s International Primary School), Mr Bascaran (Principal of Sk St. John), and Mr Sivakumar (Principal of St. John’s Institution) alongside various leaders from the education and alumni communities.

The program continued with a presentation of tokens of appreciation, followed by a banner cutting and a cake cutting ceremony to mark the occasion. Guests, staff and students then gathered for a group photo and enjoyed light refreshments while engaging in warm conversations.

The students who participated in the day’s performances and activities came from St. John’s International Primary School, St. John’s International Secondary School, St. John’s Institution, and SK St. John, showcasing a collaborative Lasallian spirit rooted in shared heritage and purpose.

The event was more than a celebration. It was a reminder of the enduring legacy of St. John Baptist de La Salle and his vision of education that transforms lives through compassion, community and service. For the Lasallian family in Malaysia, Founder’s Day remains a moment of renewal, reflection and a recommitment to building a better world through education.