Don't Touch My School!

Few days ago I took my family to Penang for a holiday. On the way back we stopped at my hometown, Ipoh. We actually by-passed Ipoh town first and stopped at Gunung Rapat to buy the famous Heong Piang. We could have just turned into Simpang Pulai after that and head home to KL. But I decided to turn back into Ipoh town because I wanted to show my daughters my school, St. Michael's Institution.

I'm sure those of us who were from these mission schools were pissed off by the remarks made by 2 UMNO MPs recently i.e. calling for the removal of the crosses, and demolition of the Christian statues and an end to church influence in mission schools including alleged control by Vatican, questioning their contribution and loyalty to Malaysia.

Well, the good thing was it also made me recall fond memories I have of my alma mater. 14 years of my life (including one year kindergarten) was spent in St. Michael. It has been a big part of my life, my growing up years.

Though St. Michael as an institution is much more than the building, I think the building itself is an outward expression of the Michaelian Spirit. Majestic, hardy, strong, tough, a never say die attitude yet gentle and compassionate. Qualities best exemplified by some of the Lasallian brothers who have taught in St. Michael.

Turning right from Ipoh Library, we were greeted by this majestic structure. The roof has been newly tiled. Unfortunately, the guard on duty didn't allow us to go inside the school. So I just have to be contented with taking a few photos from the outside. It would have been great if I could once again walk the school corridors with my family. I'm sure there will be another time.

So to the 2 UMNO MPs, this is my message and I'm sure the message of all true Michaelians.
'Don't you ever touch our school!'

School Rally

All through our College, a voice is resounding
Promptly respond to your duty's sweet call!
Harken you all for the trumpet is sounding
Your Mater's proclaiming her watchword to all
Forward my children dear!
Ever with heart sincere
Render with joy to your Mater her due
All that is vile, reject
Heaven will e'er protect
Sons of St. Michael
Valiant and true

Yes, Michaelians, reject all that is vile. Reject the BN in the coming general election. The ISA is the vilest of all laws. Nazri said that the rakyat wants the ISA since they continue to vote for the BN. So show Nazri what you want this coming GE.