FOR the alumni of Penang Chinese Girls’ School (PCGS), the 105th Anniversary Celebration was more than just an event – it was the fulfilment of a long-overdue promise.
Originally planned as the school’s 100th-anniversary reunion under the theme ‘Big Reunion’, the gathering had been scheduled near Chinese New Year to allow alumni from across Malaysia and beyond to return. However, the Covid-19 pandemic forced its postponement, leaving generations of PCGS graduates with a lingering sense of regret.
Now, five years later, ‘Continuing the Reunion’ not only made up for the missed centennial celebration but also reaffirmed the deep connection PCGS alumni share with their alma mater.
The overwhelming response, with thousands returning from around the world, proved that neither time nor distance could weaken their bond.
For Chu Kim Yeap, the deputy senior assistant of Student Affairs at Penang Chinese Girls’ High School (PCGHS), this event was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the school’s lasting impact.
“This is not just a celebration – it’s a long-overdue reunion that proves our shared history and values still unite us, no matter where we are,” she said.
Chu believes that no matter where life takes them, PCGS will always be a place of comfort and belonging.
“If you ever face challenges or feel unsettled, just come home for a while,” she said, expressing how much she treasures PCGS.
For 105 years, PCGS has upheld its core values of dignity, sincerity, diligence, and simplicity, shaping countless students into outstanding individuals who contribute meaningfully to society. The celebration served as a reminder that while times may change, the spirit of PCGS remains steadfast.
“It is not just about looking back, it’s about ensuring that the PCGS spirit continues to shine in the years to come,” Chu shared.
Through the decades, PCGS alumni have carried the school’s legacy across the world, excelling in various fields and leaving their mark. Their return was not just to honour the past but to reaffirm their commitment to upholding and passing down the values that shaped them.
With promises to reunite again in the future, one thing remains certain: PCGS is more than just a school. It is a lifelong connection, a shared history, and above all, a family that stands the test of time.
Story and pix by Lim Min Jun