KUCHING: A reunion dinner was held for the first time after 44 years to reunite the Tanjong Lobang College (TLC) Class of 72/73 at a hotel here on 1 July.
At the function, former principal of Tanjong Lobang College (1972 – 1973), Leonard Martin Uning presented a cheque for RM20,000 to Marilyn Kunche, Accounts Executive of Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS).
A sum of RM28,100 was raised from donors who attended the function that night, making a total sum of RM48,100 as donation to SCCS.
“A function like this is very important as it allows former collegemates to meet and reconnect with each other and their teachers after 44 years and also raise donations for worthy causes such as the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society.
“As your former principal who was concerned with moulding young minds to be disciplined and strong in Tanjong Lobang College (now known as Kolej Tun Datu Tuanku Hj Bujang), I am pleased that you have covered the globe in your search for knowledge and meaning, and your contributions make a difference everywhere.
“I am proud to learn that the class of 72/73 has produced many notable personalities such as experienced politicians, outstanding corporate figures, successful businessmen, excellent educationists and principals as well as a host of other brilliant professionals, many of whom are now happily retired grandparents”, he said.
Uning pointed out that he would like to see his former students use their influence or experience to direct the development of the Malaysian society positively.
Former Head Boy of Tanjong Lobang College, Dr Wong Sung Gin was later invited to share his experience on the plight faced by cancer patients.
Earlier, chairman of the organising committee, Saadi Sama’on said, “We had a golf game in the morning to kick start the reunion spirit before the dinner which was attended by over 100 former Form 6 students and their spouses from many countries including Australia, Singapore and Brunei.
“Our theme was the songs and colours of the 70’s. It brings back the sweet nostalgic memories of our youth”, said Ira Bhattacharyya, the organising secretary.
“Various programmes were drawn up including karaoke featuring favourite songs of the 70’s, poco poco dance, lucky draws and special awards to recognise the unique talents of various college mates. Among the highlights of the evening were performances by former educationists including Dr Robert Menua Saleh, Ahmad Ayub and Shamsherbie Narudin,” said Jamel Ibrahim, vice-chairman of the organising committee.
Among the prominent ex-Kenyalangs present at the function were Assistant Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Datu Len Talif Salleh, Assistant Minister of Local Government, Datu Dr Penguang Manggil, Robert Goh (OBE), Puan Sri Datin Anne Hii, Dato Dr Amin Khan, Datu Dr Ngenang Jangu and Datuk Awang Bujang.
