KOTA KINABALU: Nearly 30 years after leaving school, former students of SMK Maktab Sabah’s Class of 1996 were reunited in the spirit of togetherness.
The alumni reunion, held at a hotel here, was officiated by SMK Pulau Gaya Principal Azlan Saflie, who highlighted that unity is the cornerstone of a strong alumni association.
He commended the organising committee, led by Mohd Azlan Saleh, for successfully bringing together 120 alumni from various districts in Sabah and beyond.
Azlan Saleh said the overwhelming response demonstrated that the friendships forged during their school years had remained strong despite the passing of nearly three decades.
He expressed hope that similar programmes would continue in future as a platform to strengthen the alumni network while also serving as an opportunity to honour the teachers who had helped shape the success of former students in various fields.
“The reunion proved that time may have brought maturity, but it has never erased the memories,” he added.
He also said that although three decades had passed, the bond between teachers and their former students would always be remembered throughout their lives.
The event was further enlivened by the presence of Putatan Member of Parliament Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, who is also an alumnus of SMK Maktab Sabah’s Class of 1989.
In a Facebook post, he said that although he belonged to an earlier batch, the spirit of togetherness among Maktab Sabah alumni was clearly felt throughout the gathering.
“Although we are from batches separated by many years, we could still feel the strong bond of friendship as Maktab Sabah alumni.
“The presence of our former teachers also brought back fond memories as they were reunited with their former students,” he said.
The theme, “30 Years On, Still the Same”, was chosen to symbolise friendships that have remained strong despite the passage of time, career commitments and family responsibilities.
The programme also featured fellowship sessions, a dinner, entertainment performances, lucky draws and a group photography session, reviving laughter and cherished memories of their school days.
Among the former teachers who attended were Indang Kasih Sibin, Flora Jimmy, Norhayatie, Jesteni Salim, Azlan Saflie and Dr Hamid Rahmat, all of whom had taught the students during that era. – Wu Vuide
Shahelmey (centre), flanked by Azlan Saflie (right), and Azlan Saleh, celebrating the Pearl anniversary reunion.
