Haji Damit bin Haji Ibrahim who was the principal of Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Malay College from 1981 to 1983 before moving to the Ministry of Education (MoE), shared memories of his time at the college.
The Sekolah Menengah Melayu Pertama was officially renamed Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Malay College in 1978 and has since produced students who went on to hold high positions in the government while some became successful businessmen.
In commemorating the 45th anniversary of the college, former students initiated a reunion. “During my tenure, I regularly saw students perform above average. They consistently did well in their studies,” said Haji Damit.
He recalled students from rural areas being provided accommodation by the school.
Like other schools, he said, there were some disciplinary issues but the school managed them well and the students were able to complete their five-year studies.
Former alumnus Mohd Shuif bin Haji Mohd Hussain, an investor living in England, joined the college in 1979 and completed his studies in 1983 before pursuing further studies in London where he earned a degree in law and trained as an accountant with KPMG.
“Basically, the friends I made back then have remained my friends to this day, even after 50 years since school. We were like brothers and sisters as we formed deep relationships.”
Hajah Faridah binti Dato Paduka Haji Alikhan, meanwhile, recalled her preference for the English laboratory not only because it was air-conditioned, but the technology employed fascinated her.
“Looking back now, it might explain why I became an English teacher,” said Hajah Faridah.
Rosesinah binti Haji Apong remembered buying vegetables grown by the boys for their agricultural science class for home science and how boys would pester her for food prepared in class.
Hajah Sarimah binti Haji Abdul Rahim was active in school. She used to take part in extracurricular activities, such as karate and the school band.
“We hung out at the school’s concourse as it was – and still is – airy. It was a more relaxed place for group study,” she added. As for Pengiran Maznah binti Pengiran Badarudin, she recalled the three years she spent living in the girl’s hostel.
“I remember having a fixed time for meals and study as well as spiritual and recreational activities. I learnt a lot and made life-long friends with girls from different backgrounds,” said Pengiran Maznah.
Faridzah binti Haji Ahmad said the school has shaped her life.
“Aside from being able to excel in the school, we learnt a lot of valuable life skills when we were living in the hostel,” said Faridzah. – Lyna Mohamad
