Menyaksikan Keindahan New Delhi di Musim Dingin
2 years ago
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
Dear Frees,
Currently a little busy with work and stuff...
If anyone happen to stumble upon this blog and would like to contribute,
Just send an email to KK Ng, via kkng_882000@hotmail.com
and I would be happy to post up any articles that you can contribute!
Otherwise, I am contactable at 017 4539288
Do tell!
Wednesday, 8 December 2010
Farok! The (Canteen) Man!
Not going anywhere: Farok (left) has spent most of his life at Penang Free School, first as a student and then as a canteen stall operator for 36 years now.
MOHD Farok Ibramasa has seen several principals and teachers come and go during his time at the topnotch SMK Penang Free School in Penang.
No, he is not a part of the academic staff but actually one of the school canteen stall operators for the past 36 years, which is no ordinary feat.
A former student of the school, he has not left the grounds of the institution during this period, except for a few years in an attempt to further his studies and to also find another type of job.
“I tried to further my studies and also work elsewhere for around two years but I did not like to be bossed around so I decided to start my own business,” said the 61-year-old.
“Actually, this stall that I am manning now was owned by another businessman but he was from Kuala Lumpur and he had businesses there. He wanted to return to Kuala Lumpur so he passed his stall to me and I have been manning it ever since,” said Farok whose father also managed one of the stalls at the same canteen in 1930.
“He took charge of one stall for two years but left soon after and ventured into other businesses,” he said.
Canteen work is not smooth-sailing for Farok, a father of five, as there are phases when he does not earn enough.
“We have to be able to adjust ourselves to the lives of the students in order to survive. Our business will peak at the start of the new term but when it comes to the mid-term holidays, our business will slow down.”
It is not all doom and gloom as there are advantages to it as well, said Farok.
“We can at least know what to expect from our income as it is constant most of the time as the school intake of students is almost the same each year.”
An outgoing person who loves fishing with friends and watching football, Farok said he would be retiring once all of his children begin to work.
“I do not regard this business as a family business. I do not see my children taking over the business as they are heading into fields such as engineering, information communication technology and medicine.”
Asked about his fond memories, he said that it must be the students who came back to visit him.
“After many years, it is touching to see them coming back to visit and catch up with me, especially with one student who is like my own brother.
“He went to study overseas but after years of not communicating, he still remembers me and drops by to visit me whenever he is in town,” he said.
Original Story
Facbook Page
Monday, 29 November 2010
Another Free Has left us.
Today, on the 28th of November 2010, we bid farewell to Tun Dato' Seri Dr. Lim Chong Eu who was the second Chief Minister of Penang and also an Old Free.
On Wikipedia
On the Star
On Wikipedia
On the Star
Tuesday, 11 May 2010
Monday, 19 April 2010
Recruitment Drive - Back in 2004
Welcome to recruitment drive or RD 2004! Suddenly found old Ed Board stock pictures while I was digging through my old files.
So, as you all know, PFS is a school for scholars, sportsmen and gentlemen.
It is also home to some of the best societies and clubs!
So, every year, all Frees will congregate and welcome the new comers, or first year students.
Sample of first year students.
Clubs and societies will demonstrate their martial arts.
While teachers will also join in the activities.
This is one of the time of the year which you get to tan your belts!
and play a lil dress up. Because, when you come for RD,
you knew that something big awaits you.
From the size of things, you are sure that your friends put in loads of effort and dream big.
When the eyes of 2000 Frees are watching,
You want every drum, every trumpet to roar.
Making sure every knot, every stick was in the right place,
making every effort to impress,
this is one day of the year, where ancient skill merge with art and the modern world.
We do it not because it is easy. I mean, who would spend one month building a model ship just for the fun of it?
Well, there are the Frees who would do it just to know we can,
and there are those Frees who do it just for the fun of it.
There are also those who do it because they want to succeed, and they know that nothing can stand in their way!
Of course, holding an RD is not an easy feat. To ensure that everything is in perfect order,
you have to make sure you prepare. Those were the days when we spent the nights in the century old school. Sleeping under the blanket of starlight.
Like the ships we build, the waves of time seem to erode a tradition long gone.
And so we think of the days that were.
Tuesday, 2 March 2010
Mirror Mirror on the wall
Dear readers,
Sorry about the long absence, it is finally the end of the Summer Break for me.
Last month, I stepped into Penang Free School after almost being away for 5 years now. Was curious how things have changed in the school. What better way than to see with my own eyes.
As I drove into the school compound, I was greeted by the guard who had no problem letting me in. I told them I was an Old Free and was back to meet my old teachers.
The school is a little better in terms of infrastructure:
1. The school is fenced up in brick walls so that no, you don't have to break wires to ponteng, just literary pijak and lompat pagar.
2. The teachers now have shaded parking spaces. Thank god. I measured the temperature of my car before in the Penang sun. 60 degrees Celsius on a normal day. There is even a shade extending from the school pond to the school building. Good shelter for those rainy days.
3. There are mirrors on every corner of the school. What better way to tell someone, look in the mirror. They were not small mirrors you get in the school toilet. No, they were this huge ass full length mirrors! Hope it helps!
4. The teachers now have a 5 start toilet next to the office. Wow, now this brings meaning to sitting on the throne.
5. The canteen now has permanent benches stuck to the floor. I dont know what logic it is but at least some money was spent there.
6. The pond area has about a dozen new pondok bacaan for students to hang.
7. There is this absurdly huge badge facing the road.
So, as I walked into the school. The first teacher I met was none other than Mr Ho Nean Chan. Discipline Teacher and scout master extraordinaire. How five years in PFS will change someone. So, he ushered me into the discipline room where he lives with Mr Lim Ah Seng.
I said to him, "So Sir, how's my son?" and we laughed. He told me that many Old Frees came back often, once in a while, most with very very long hair and all sorts of funny antics.
But our meeting was short lived as he was kinda busy. I followed him for a while and it was obvious the female teacher there was uneasy with one of the kids. Ah Seng took out his big rotan and we headed to the Principals office.
Woot... got to witness kids getting whacked. I guess some of you felt that before. Raw discipline. Did not get to know what happened but En Ramli, the headmaster looked serious.
Next was my visit to my old Ed Board adviser, Ms Mabel. If anyone can remember her, she was the teacher teaching English in form 5 and 6. It was clear that she was quite upset at the quality of students in the school. I don't blame her.
It seems like the Editorial Board has been invaded by the likes of the Headmaster. Previously, the Editorial Board held a fund to produce the school magazines. It costs RM40,000 every year to print 2000 magazines. Previously it was funded half by students paying the compulsory fee, and by the Ed Board members somehow miraculously coming up with RM20,000 from canvassing and the goodwill of people. Right now, the magazines are no longer compulsory for the student population while the Headmaster has turned the once high quality of the school magazine into a cut and past photo album.
As for the Ed Board facilities, with no budget, all the Macs in the room are all aged and not maintained. I remember every year we would get our Mags somewhere after Speech Day on October 21st. It was a tradition. Right now, with no Mag to look forward to, and ISA policy from the HM, another tradition is on the line. Only the current students will lose out.
I do have in my reach, the soft copies of the school magazines for about ten years back and probably further, but right now, given the condition in the alma mater, I cannot upload the soft copies. Still hot politics going on between the OFA and the HM.
I wait in patience for next HM to see his policy on tradition and vision.
Sorry about the long absence, it is finally the end of the Summer Break for me.
Last month, I stepped into Penang Free School after almost being away for 5 years now. Was curious how things have changed in the school. What better way than to see with my own eyes.
As I drove into the school compound, I was greeted by the guard who had no problem letting me in. I told them I was an Old Free and was back to meet my old teachers.
The school is a little better in terms of infrastructure:
1. The school is fenced up in brick walls so that no, you don't have to break wires to ponteng, just literary pijak and lompat pagar.
2. The teachers now have shaded parking spaces. Thank god. I measured the temperature of my car before in the Penang sun. 60 degrees Celsius on a normal day. There is even a shade extending from the school pond to the school building. Good shelter for those rainy days.
3. There are mirrors on every corner of the school. What better way to tell someone, look in the mirror. They were not small mirrors you get in the school toilet. No, they were this huge ass full length mirrors! Hope it helps!
4. The teachers now have a 5 start toilet next to the office. Wow, now this brings meaning to sitting on the throne.
5. The canteen now has permanent benches stuck to the floor. I dont know what logic it is but at least some money was spent there.
6. The pond area has about a dozen new pondok bacaan for students to hang.
7. There is this absurdly huge badge facing the road.
So, as I walked into the school. The first teacher I met was none other than Mr Ho Nean Chan. Discipline Teacher and scout master extraordinaire. How five years in PFS will change someone. So, he ushered me into the discipline room where he lives with Mr Lim Ah Seng.
I said to him, "So Sir, how's my son?" and we laughed. He told me that many Old Frees came back often, once in a while, most with very very long hair and all sorts of funny antics.
But our meeting was short lived as he was kinda busy. I followed him for a while and it was obvious the female teacher there was uneasy with one of the kids. Ah Seng took out his big rotan and we headed to the Principals office.
Woot... got to witness kids getting whacked. I guess some of you felt that before. Raw discipline. Did not get to know what happened but En Ramli, the headmaster looked serious.
Next was my visit to my old Ed Board adviser, Ms Mabel. If anyone can remember her, she was the teacher teaching English in form 5 and 6. It was clear that she was quite upset at the quality of students in the school. I don't blame her.
It seems like the Editorial Board has been invaded by the likes of the Headmaster. Previously, the Editorial Board held a fund to produce the school magazines. It costs RM40,000 every year to print 2000 magazines. Previously it was funded half by students paying the compulsory fee, and by the Ed Board members somehow miraculously coming up with RM20,000 from canvassing and the goodwill of people. Right now, the magazines are no longer compulsory for the student population while the Headmaster has turned the once high quality of the school magazine into a cut and past photo album.
As for the Ed Board facilities, with no budget, all the Macs in the room are all aged and not maintained. I remember every year we would get our Mags somewhere after Speech Day on October 21st. It was a tradition. Right now, with no Mag to look forward to, and ISA policy from the HM, another tradition is on the line. Only the current students will lose out.
I do have in my reach, the soft copies of the school magazines for about ten years back and probably further, but right now, given the condition in the alma mater, I cannot upload the soft copies. Still hot politics going on between the OFA and the HM.
I wait in patience for next HM to see his policy on tradition and vision.
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
Rev Robert Sparke Hutchings
Working in the EPF building during my summer holidays, I can't help but notice the small serene cemetery across the road. Here lies Reverend Hutchings, founder of Penang Free School.
Hutchings was one of the early pioneers in Penang. Not only was he credited with the inspiration to build the St George's Anglican Church that stands at the corner of Farquhar Street and Pitt Street, he contributed significantly to Penang's development from an educational perspective.
Penang Free School is his most lasting legacy. There's also Hutchings Primary School which bears his name and located right behind the Penang State Museum which used to be one of the early premises of the Penang Free School until it relocated permanently to Green Lane in 1928.
His final resting place at the old Protestant Cemetery (Opposite Upper Penang Road) in Northam Road reminds us of him. A hand drawn portrait of him hangs on the first spot by the entrance of the school hall. His name is also engraved on a wooden plaque, proudly decorating the wall of the school hall stage.
Penang Free School still maintains this tradition: on Founder's Day (the 21st of October), the school prefects would gather at his graveside in the morning to drink a toast to him. In 1966, on the sesqui-centenary anniversary of the school, a plaque was erected to remember him as the Founder of the Penang Free School.
According to some genealogy records on the Internet, Hutchings married Elvira Phipps in 1818 and had three children: Sarah Hutchings, Robert Sparke Hutchings and Elvira Hutchings, all born in Penang. The younger Robert Hutchings, also a member of the clergy, was named Vicar of several churches in England.
Thanks to ssquah.blogspot.com
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
The things kids bring to school nowadays
Well, bringing illegal items to school is actually kinda fun. Here's a student's perspective:
Teacher 12 o clock. Roger that, hide the loot. Evade evade.. Danger.. The bomb has been planted... Terrorists win... GG.
Well, here is how the list of illegal items have evolved over the years:
1980: Knives were probably banned
1990: Bringing cards to school to play aka. learning statistics
2000: Keeping cigarrettes in pockets
2002: Hand phones became popular, especially those monotone ones
2004: Hair gel to spike your hair
2005: Students caught sniffing glue, gets into sticky situation
2006: Some students caught with porn CDs
2007: Student brings granade shell to school!!
2009: Ganja is the bomb.
2020?
Who knows.
Teacher 12 o clock. Roger that, hide the loot. Evade evade.. Danger.. The bomb has been planted... Terrorists win... GG.
Well, here is how the list of illegal items have evolved over the years:
1980: Knives were probably banned
1990: Bringing cards to school to play aka. learning statistics
2000: Keeping cigarrettes in pockets
2002: Hand phones became popular, especially those monotone ones
2004: Hair gel to spike your hair
2005: Students caught sniffing glue, gets into sticky situation
2006: Some students caught with porn CDs
2007: Student brings granade shell to school!!
2009: Ganja is the bomb.
2020?
Who knows.
Saturday, 19 December 2009
Getting into trouble
Ah yes, the epitome of schooling life, what is a student life without getting into some deep water and conflict. Getting in trouble is often not our intention but given the boring nature of the monotonous classes, what proper PFS student does not get himself into some sort of trouble once in a while. Adrenaline is part of human nature and when the hunt and the fights are deviod from our daily lives, coupled with the teachers trying to get order from chaotic raging hormones,
one can only seek some respite from boredom by doing some mischief.
Some people do get caught. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, some mischievious acts are actually kind of humorous when you come to think about it. There are SOOO MANY ways one can get into trouble. Let me just list down a few!
1) Eating in class
As you all know, eating in class is prohibited. It attracts flies, ants, rodents and cockroaches.
Must be why there were rats in class! But that doesn't stop my peers from chewing a lil bite when the teacher has his back turned. The funniest was when a teacher caught a guy eating. He saw him chewing and asked him to open his mouth. There was nothing there!!! With no evidence, he was left with a grin.
2) Bringing handphone to school
What was once a want is now a need. I cant list down anyone in my age group without a mobile number save a mobile phone. More than that, school is such a good place to have a mobile phone especially when times are varying and unpredictable. At one time, my phone bill was more than my dad's! Even better, I know a girl whos phone bill reaches like RM 1000 a few years ago when she was in form 4!
Obviously, the discipline teacher's room is filled with a bunch of phones confiscated from the students, usually from spot checks.
3) Making fun of other students
However wrong something we did was, usually, it is not the end of the world. We learn from our mistakes and hopefully, make ourselves better people. Life goes on.
Good luck and all the best with all Frees out there!
one can only seek some respite from boredom by doing some mischief.
Some people do get caught. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, some mischievious acts are actually kind of humorous when you come to think about it. There are SOOO MANY ways one can get into trouble. Let me just list down a few!
1) Eating in class
As you all know, eating in class is prohibited. It attracts flies, ants, rodents and cockroaches.
Must be why there were rats in class! But that doesn't stop my peers from chewing a lil bite when the teacher has his back turned. The funniest was when a teacher caught a guy eating. He saw him chewing and asked him to open his mouth. There was nothing there!!! With no evidence, he was left with a grin.
2) Bringing handphone to school
What was once a want is now a need. I cant list down anyone in my age group without a mobile number save a mobile phone. More than that, school is such a good place to have a mobile phone especially when times are varying and unpredictable. At one time, my phone bill was more than my dad's! Even better, I know a girl whos phone bill reaches like RM 1000 a few years ago when she was in form 4!
Obviously, the discipline teacher's room is filled with a bunch of phones confiscated from the students, usually from spot checks.
3) Making fun of other students
Yes, making fun of other students can land you into trouble. Both of you. So if you wanna get into some trouble, and also get the other person into trouble, just start making fun of him. 100% guarantee to get the both of you into the discipline room. Might also get you to the HM if you are lucky!
4) Ponteng kelas (Skipping class) Ever wondered what the half inch rotans were ment for? Some say they are for truancy. In fact, many students have felt the stokes for attempting to skip class. Noobs. 1st rule of skipping class is don't get caught! Second rule is make sure that a teacher knows! Yes, the teacher should know that you are going out of school. Funny enough, there was one time a discipline teacher caught two students with their bags heading out of school. He asked the boys, "Come here". They complied. "Any CDs? Any cigarattes?" "No?" "Okay go." -.-
So far the award for most humourous act of mischief is getting caught exchanging blue CDs with fellow students. This was in 2005 when I was a final year student. A form 2 student (You know who you are!) was caught exchanging very educational CDs (Sex education is in form 3 - maybe hes a very forward student).
The fact that this is happening in school means that the life of people and their aspirations are starting to dwindle. Nonetheless, it deserves one last laugh cause did he get into trouble!
However wrong something we did was, usually, it is not the end of the world. We learn from our mistakes and hopefully, make ourselves better people. Life goes on.
Good luck and all the best with all Frees out there!
Monday, 14 December 2009
Holidays!!!
It is the little bits of respite we all look forward to during the most torturing seasons of the year.
Holidays are so welcome in a schooling life. Coming to a working life, holidays are hard to come by and a bachelor life with a pet and a job just makes me wish there were more holidays!!
Anyway, one must be wondering how people can spend their holidays. Specifically the end of the year holidays. Just a note, Malaysia probably has the most public holidays in a a year than any other country!
Playing computer games from dawn to dusk used to be one of the ways i spent my time. When you are 14 and carefree, nothing is better than a game of skill against your best friends or hanging out with 100 other people in one of Penang's cybercafes!
Most people would opt for the beach or the highlands, while others would take to the skies to someplace far away. nothing like relaxing in the company of family and friends.
On the extreme side, PFS scouts will spend their holidays with old friends and new friends, getting ready to compete in their end of the year camps. These were really grand camps and would attract visitors by the hundreds just to spectate. The Red Cresent and Band members will also be busy having their own activities.
Teachers would get a time off and clear their leaves after marking papers and take time to complete short courses!
And people like me will be taking time off working the hours away till i dont get any proper time to blog!
Holidays are so welcome in a schooling life. Coming to a working life, holidays are hard to come by and a bachelor life with a pet and a job just makes me wish there were more holidays!!
Anyway, one must be wondering how people can spend their holidays. Specifically the end of the year holidays. Just a note, Malaysia probably has the most public holidays in a a year than any other country!
Playing computer games from dawn to dusk used to be one of the ways i spent my time. When you are 14 and carefree, nothing is better than a game of skill against your best friends or hanging out with 100 other people in one of Penang's cybercafes!
Most people would opt for the beach or the highlands, while others would take to the skies to someplace far away. nothing like relaxing in the company of family and friends.
On the extreme side, PFS scouts will spend their holidays with old friends and new friends, getting ready to compete in their end of the year camps. These were really grand camps and would attract visitors by the hundreds just to spectate. The Red Cresent and Band members will also be busy having their own activities.
Teachers would get a time off and clear their leaves after marking papers and take time to complete short courses!
And people like me will be taking time off working the hours away till i dont get any proper time to blog!
Sunday, 6 December 2009
Welcome: History, One post at a time
Welcome! This blog intends to catalogue the history of Penang Free School in preparation for the 200th Anniversary of the school since its founding. How far can it go? We will have to wait and see. Time to put the meaning back to being a Free.
So far, there have not been any proper online documentation of the oldest school in South East Asia. This blog does not aim to compete with the other sitesout there but rather capture the memories of the people that make up the school and the rich history that was previously undocumented.
Boring information is not available here at all as they are easily found on the internet and other sources.
If you have an article you wish to upload, kindly send to
echoeditor@gmail.com
Would be great if you could also include
Name
Old classes
Positions held in clubs
and any other infomation that history should not forget!
As the a former Editor of the school magazine, my vision is to document as much as we can and get feedback from the younger Old Frees. Also, I plan to dig out all the fading photographs and documents that I had access to. Only now did I realise the value of history. Let it be remembered. It is only understandable that the Old Frees have not embraced the internet wholly.
What will probably follow in the future would be a move into the OFA website and integrated with the school website. When this is done, I guess that a credit card or paypal system will be set up to allow the young Old Frees to donate to the OFA or something. These funds will be used to reward the outstanding people back in Penang Free School, and to reward the Teachers who make a difference. People who do not make a difference like some headmasters will not receive the recognition and will be motivated to work harder!
This will not be a fast process but when the one millionth dollar is raised, and kept in an account, the interest can be channeled to the school yearly. I believe that the OFA has not been playing an active role to motivate the students at all. So, its just under 7 years to 2016, the 200th anniversary for PFS.
Wanna be part of the difference? Want to make a meaning out of being a Free? The first thing that wont cost you a thing is to contribute an article!
Thanks!
echoeditor@gmail.com
So far, there have not been any proper online documentation of the oldest school in South East Asia. This blog does not aim to compete with the other sitesout there but rather capture the memories of the people that make up the school and the rich history that was previously undocumented.
Boring information is not available here at all as they are easily found on the internet and other sources.
If you have an article you wish to upload, kindly send to
echoeditor@gmail.com
Would be great if you could also include
Name
Old classes
Positions held in clubs
and any other infomation that history should not forget!
As the a former Editor of the school magazine, my vision is to document as much as we can and get feedback from the younger Old Frees. Also, I plan to dig out all the fading photographs and documents that I had access to. Only now did I realise the value of history. Let it be remembered. It is only understandable that the Old Frees have not embraced the internet wholly.
What will probably follow in the future would be a move into the OFA website and integrated with the school website. When this is done, I guess that a credit card or paypal system will be set up to allow the young Old Frees to donate to the OFA or something. These funds will be used to reward the outstanding people back in Penang Free School, and to reward the Teachers who make a difference. People who do not make a difference like some headmasters will not receive the recognition and will be motivated to work harder!
This will not be a fast process but when the one millionth dollar is raised, and kept in an account, the interest can be channeled to the school yearly. I believe that the OFA has not been playing an active role to motivate the students at all. So, its just under 7 years to 2016, the 200th anniversary for PFS.
Wanna be part of the difference? Want to make a meaning out of being a Free? The first thing that wont cost you a thing is to contribute an article!
Thanks!
echoeditor@gmail.com
Thursday, 26 November 2009
School Library
The PFS library is called Khazanah Tunku. The 2 storey building can fit an olympic swimming pool and houses a small collection of books. It is located at the fringe of the school field and next to the scout den.
The main entrance opens to a large counter, decorated by the top recommended books.
A few computers dot the floor and a dozen or so study table fill the ground floor.
The library holds just about 1000 books, most of from the ancient times. There has recently been some additions to the library, but in terms of content, the library has a long way to go before being capable of encouraging the reading habit.
The library is run by the Board of Librarians who man the counters and upkeep the building.
A number of stories in PFS originate from the library. A large portrait of the late Tunku Abdul Rahman watches over the entire library. It is purported that some students have seen his eyes move. Also, there is supposedly a tunnel in the library, leading to the school hall. A few people have admitted to seeing the entrance, now seal.
The main entrance opens to a large counter, decorated by the top recommended books.
A few computers dot the floor and a dozen or so study table fill the ground floor.
The library holds just about 1000 books, most of from the ancient times. There has recently been some additions to the library, but in terms of content, the library has a long way to go before being capable of encouraging the reading habit.
The library is run by the Board of Librarians who man the counters and upkeep the building.
A number of stories in PFS originate from the library. A large portrait of the late Tunku Abdul Rahman watches over the entire library. It is purported that some students have seen his eyes move. Also, there is supposedly a tunnel in the library, leading to the school hall. A few people have admitted to seeing the entrance, now seal.
Saturday, 21 November 2009
Lompat Pagar
Lompat Pagar is Malay for Jumping the Fence. In literal meaning, cutting class by jumping over the school fence. As in every other proper boy school, what disciplinary rules will not be complete without one the rules on skipping class. As far as I am aware, I am not! I haven't been informed about the school's policy on cutting classes.
Well, in your student life, you should have friends or yourself at somepoint, explored the art of cutting class. Here are a few methods in which I know of cutting class in PFS!
1. The basket ball court. The basket ball court is located such that a hole in the fence leads directly out of the school. Just make sure that no ones watching!
2. The KH blocks are have fences which lead out of the school into the carpark opposite McDonalds.The cover and the secluded nature of the area makes it favourite. Just get a tall chair and you are out of the school!
3. Hostel. The hostel has a backdoor which leads to the housing estates behind. The doors are usually locked during school hours but a short climb over the walls make a fast escape.
4. When you get a car, do like I did. I drove a car full of students in uniform out of the school as the Headmaster watched as we sped off out the main gate. (I can't say I was proud. Must have been a good reason why.)
5. The other small gates. Usually these gates are locked during school hours but near the last few periods, like 1 hour before classes end, the gates will be open. What better way to get out than the same way you came in!
Word of caution: You may get caught!
Well, in your student life, you should have friends or yourself at somepoint, explored the art of cutting class. Here are a few methods in which I know of cutting class in PFS!
1. The basket ball court. The basket ball court is located such that a hole in the fence leads directly out of the school. Just make sure that no ones watching!
2. The KH blocks are have fences which lead out of the school into the carpark opposite McDonalds.The cover and the secluded nature of the area makes it favourite. Just get a tall chair and you are out of the school!
3. Hostel. The hostel has a backdoor which leads to the housing estates behind. The doors are usually locked during school hours but a short climb over the walls make a fast escape.
4. When you get a car, do like I did. I drove a car full of students in uniform out of the school as the Headmaster watched as we sped off out the main gate. (I can't say I was proud. Must have been a good reason why.)
5. The other small gates. Usually these gates are locked during school hours but near the last few periods, like 1 hour before classes end, the gates will be open. What better way to get out than the same way you came in!
Word of caution: You may get caught!
Tuesday, 17 November 2009
Warden's Room
The lone ranger walks the empty halls. Pin drop silence as the cool breeze blows. High in his tower, he observes the rest of the school world go past. Sounds like a cowboy life no? As you all know, PFS has its very own dedicated team of school wardens.
Okay, here is the definition of warden on Princeton.net Dictionary:
Noun
S: (n) warden (the chief official in charge of a prison)
Indeed, every year the school has a head prison guard, erm i mean prison warden, erm i mean school warden.
Verdict? Guilty as charged! Indeed, we are/were all stuck in a prison it seemed, a prison for the mind for 11 to 13 years of our youth. However, i digress and this post is about the wardens, so lets get to the jist of it.
The Perks?
1.Wardens get to wear white pants! Kewl
2.They have their own room right in the canteen. Privacy!
3.Get to wear a fancy badge which is really blue!
4.Escape Monday assemblies! All you always wanted.
5.Get an excuse to enter class late!
What does a warden do?
1.Substitute for no entry signs
2.Clears and fills the "prison cells" aka classes
3.Help clear the canteen of plates and cups!
4.Help other students keep restricted items in their room!
The Wardens' Room
One can't help but wonder,why the secrecy in all the rooms? One of the most highly off limits room is the Warden's room. Enter the Dragon's den at your own risk, even if wardens look more timid than the prefects, some due consideration should be given before infiltrating their war room, including the prospect of having a chair thrown at you.
Someone tell me what is in the warden's room cause i have always wanted to know!
Okay, here is the definition of warden on Princeton.net Dictionary:
Noun
S: (n) warden (the chief official in charge of a prison)
Indeed, every year the school has a head prison guard, erm i mean prison warden, erm i mean school warden.
Verdict? Guilty as charged! Indeed, we are/were all stuck in a prison it seemed, a prison for the mind for 11 to 13 years of our youth. However, i digress and this post is about the wardens, so lets get to the jist of it.
The Perks?
1.Wardens get to wear white pants! Kewl
2.They have their own room right in the canteen. Privacy!
3.Get to wear a fancy badge which is really blue!
4.Escape Monday assemblies! All you always wanted.
5.Get an excuse to enter class late!
What does a warden do?
1.Substitute for no entry signs
2.Clears and fills the "prison cells" aka classes
3.Help clear the canteen of plates and cups!
4.Help other students keep restricted items in their room!
The Wardens' Room
One can't help but wonder,why the secrecy in all the rooms? One of the most highly off limits room is the Warden's room. Enter the Dragon's den at your own risk, even if wardens look more timid than the prefects, some due consideration should be given before infiltrating their war room, including the prospect of having a chair thrown at you.
Someone tell me what is in the warden's room cause i have always wanted to know!
Saturday, 14 November 2009
The Blackened Glass
It was a typical school day that PFS student Ah Seng (Not his real name) was having. As usual, he arrived in school before the sun peeks from the horizon. He was early today, the first few ones in school. The dimly lit corridor is as desolate as it gets, after all, it was only 6am.
He was walking past the classrooms when suddenly the corner of his eye caught a glimpse of a figure in his class. It must be another student then, he thought to himself. When he tries to enter, he finds that all the doors were still locked.
He knocked at the door. He could only gasp when the most eerie pair of eyes met his own. He was not the first, as many also saw figures around the school. After that day, the school could only paint the windows shut.
Okay, that is the explanation I heard for something unusual in PFS. If you walk along the main corridor, the windows on most of old class rooms are painted black as though to make sure no one can look into them.
More sensible explaination: School vandals think that it would be funny, so they spray painted the windows black. Then instead of removing the paint, the handyman comes along and paints the frame, leaves the glass black! Ta da! ARTISTIC UTILITY, blocks the sun, no need to clean windows and no need to use the bathrooms to change! Weee...
Any info welcomed! echoeditor@gmail.com
He was walking past the classrooms when suddenly the corner of his eye caught a glimpse of a figure in his class. It must be another student then, he thought to himself. When he tries to enter, he finds that all the doors were still locked.
He knocked at the door. He could only gasp when the most eerie pair of eyes met his own. He was not the first, as many also saw figures around the school. After that day, the school could only paint the windows shut.
Okay, that is the explanation I heard for something unusual in PFS. If you walk along the main corridor, the windows on most of old class rooms are painted black as though to make sure no one can look into them.
More sensible explaination: School vandals think that it would be funny, so they spray painted the windows black. Then instead of removing the paint, the handyman comes along and paints the frame, leaves the glass black! Ta da! ARTISTIC UTILITY, blocks the sun, no need to clean windows and no need to use the bathrooms to change! Weee...
Any info welcomed! echoeditor@gmail.com
Thursday, 12 November 2009
School Hall
The school hall was originally the heart of the school building by design. The main porch leads directly to the hall. On both sides of the hall lie two quadrangles, the east quad and the west quad. The notice boards at the face of the hall display the school crest, motto, laurels and visitor information.
The hall is 20 meters wide and 50 meters long and has 12 doors on each side. The School bell lies 10 meters above the main entrance and a hemp rope extends to down to the entrance for the ringer. Flanking each side of the hall are the portraits of the Old Headmasters, with the older headmasters having their portraits closer to the stage. Above the stage lies an old clock with keeps close watch on the time (Last I checked it was not working in 2005). The roof is plaster board and a series of wooden arches hold the ceiling at least 20 meters above the floor, sloping down towards the quads.
The stage is raised with entrances disguised on the sides. On stage right lie a piano where the pianist plays, and a room for the sound controller. Stage left is where the light controls are located. The wooden stage is home to rumors that there might be an underground tunnel under the hall. There is however, entrances on both sides of the stage that lead under. To the best of my knowledge, there where canned drinks are kept for the canteen operators. (The secret treasure!)
The school hall is a very special place for every Free. It is the first place they assemble back in their first year, and it is the last place they leave from after their final paper. The hall itself is used for Monday assembly and for Exams. The School Speech day is held in the hall and the hall also functions as a badminton court.
Perhaps some of you remember the other uses of the hall:
1. That's where I donated blood when the state hospital ran low.
2. I was there when the Agung, an Old Free came to visit.
3. I remember receiving an award on stage during a Monday assembly.
4. There was certainly a time when I did my language assessment there.
5. Most of us had our vaccines done there! Ouch.
6. I saw people dance upstage.
The hall is 20 meters wide and 50 meters long and has 12 doors on each side. The School bell lies 10 meters above the main entrance and a hemp rope extends to down to the entrance for the ringer. Flanking each side of the hall are the portraits of the Old Headmasters, with the older headmasters having their portraits closer to the stage. Above the stage lies an old clock with keeps close watch on the time (Last I checked it was not working in 2005). The roof is plaster board and a series of wooden arches hold the ceiling at least 20 meters above the floor, sloping down towards the quads.
The stage is raised with entrances disguised on the sides. On stage right lie a piano where the pianist plays, and a room for the sound controller. Stage left is where the light controls are located. The wooden stage is home to rumors that there might be an underground tunnel under the hall. There is however, entrances on both sides of the stage that lead under. To the best of my knowledge, there where canned drinks are kept for the canteen operators. (The secret treasure!)
The school hall is a very special place for every Free. It is the first place they assemble back in their first year, and it is the last place they leave from after their final paper. The hall itself is used for Monday assembly and for Exams. The School Speech day is held in the hall and the hall also functions as a badminton court.
Perhaps some of you remember the other uses of the hall:
1. That's where I donated blood when the state hospital ran low.
2. I was there when the Agung, an Old Free came to visit.
3. I remember receiving an award on stage during a Monday assembly.
4. There was certainly a time when I did my language assessment there.
5. Most of us had our vaccines done there! Ouch.
6. I saw people dance upstage.
Wednesday, 11 November 2009
Football in PFS
Well, who can deny being a Liverpool fan? (Ducks for cover as all the other football club fans start hurling bad comments) To be honest, I am neutral between the football teams but I enjoy the sport as a game itself, which this post is going to be all about.
The next Premier League match is on the 21st of Nov with Liverpool vs. ManCity! I guess this would have been the topic at the canteen table if we were still in school. With the advent of the TV (A privilege that our ancestors did not have) and Astro, even school students can watch their favorite footballers play it out 10000 miles away. Who can forget the last time they went out to the mamak store to catch a game. I remembered the last world cup when I was at a local mamak store. It was loaded packed. (Too bad for all those of you who are overseas. No mamak store for you and me)
Well, the if theres one thing I am still proud of PFS is that its school field is still one of the best kept places. Back when we were students, there was always a slot for physical exercises. No sooner than the bell rang, all the football junkies would have already changed into their PE attire (The white shirt and blue shorts).
After getting the football from the sports room, we would set up the goal posts (Some time just a pair of shoes). Then the selection of teams began.
There were no bragging rights, no trophy, just pure adrenaline and team building. Many people were already at that time, state and school players and some (myself included) were the not so fit ones. But yet, no matter how I sucked at football, the feel of grass under my "kaki ayam" is such a great feeling. It gets better when it rains. The field will be giant mud puddle and I recall playing a game with white pants on. Well, you can guess what happened.
Among other things, here is a list of the more spectacular things one can expect to happen on the field:
5. You fall into an offside trap (So irritating)
4. It was raining just last night and you ran straight into the puddle of mud and splash!!
3. You concentrate hard on the ball, you see it get passed around and round and you start to wonder why objects that are approaching get bigger. Suddenly it hits you in the behind. Ouch.
2. You are not so good at football so you do your best. You mind your own business and wait for the ball. But just when you turned your head, your friend's aim is so good that the ball hits you in the crotch. Medic!
1. You are open and run up field. Everyone gathers at the goal post trying to receive the corner kick. Such a crowd but you just stand there, he kicks and hits your face and GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Football fever struck you? Send your story to echoeditor@gmail.com
The next Premier League match is on the 21st of Nov with Liverpool vs. ManCity! I guess this would have been the topic at the canteen table if we were still in school. With the advent of the TV (A privilege that our ancestors did not have) and Astro, even school students can watch their favorite footballers play it out 10000 miles away. Who can forget the last time they went out to the mamak store to catch a game. I remembered the last world cup when I was at a local mamak store. It was loaded packed. (Too bad for all those of you who are overseas. No mamak store for you and me)
Well, the if theres one thing I am still proud of PFS is that its school field is still one of the best kept places. Back when we were students, there was always a slot for physical exercises. No sooner than the bell rang, all the football junkies would have already changed into their PE attire (The white shirt and blue shorts).
After getting the football from the sports room, we would set up the goal posts (Some time just a pair of shoes). Then the selection of teams began.
There were no bragging rights, no trophy, just pure adrenaline and team building. Many people were already at that time, state and school players and some (myself included) were the not so fit ones. But yet, no matter how I sucked at football, the feel of grass under my "kaki ayam" is such a great feeling. It gets better when it rains. The field will be giant mud puddle and I recall playing a game with white pants on. Well, you can guess what happened.
Among other things, here is a list of the more spectacular things one can expect to happen on the field:
5. You fall into an offside trap (So irritating)
4. It was raining just last night and you ran straight into the puddle of mud and splash!!
3. You concentrate hard on the ball, you see it get passed around and round and you start to wonder why objects that are approaching get bigger. Suddenly it hits you in the behind. Ouch.
2. You are not so good at football so you do your best. You mind your own business and wait for the ball. But just when you turned your head, your friend's aim is so good that the ball hits you in the crotch. Medic!
1. You are open and run up field. Everyone gathers at the goal post trying to receive the corner kick. Such a crowd but you just stand there, he kicks and hits your face and GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Football fever struck you? Send your story to echoeditor@gmail.com
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
McDonalds Green Lane
Penang Free School is undoubtedly Green Lane McDonald's best customer. The McDonald's building was converted from a former bungalow and is located right next to a Shell station.
The other schools contributing to this branch's success is Hamilton School, Batu Lanchang, Georgetown School and Convent Green Lane.
The building has seen many upgrades as PFS and the other surrounding schools continue to pump profit into their pockets. In my tenure, I have seen McDonalds refurbish twice. Who knows how are things nowadays. The building features an ever evolving drive thru system which seems to be different every other year. Above, there is a play area for little kids and a birthday section! Only a handful of Penangites have not been into the building. The fastfood restaurant also features a Maybank ATM. Throughout my life, I have seen the restaurant shift its focus from kids to school goers.
The last I checked in 2005, the restaurant pays RM4.00 per hour.
Of the more interesting sight one can expect are:
1. Crowds of students on the upper floors making a total mess.
2. The local gangsters or samseng starting fights. News of fights go around quite fast and so you might also see:
3. Policemen, undercover and uniformed patrolling the area just to make sure no one gets hurt and occasionally:
4. Mr Lim Ah Seng, bringing the truant student back to the discipline room for skipping class.
5. Students spending the RM5 voucher that McD (as it is now called. In Australia its called Mackers) gives out ever so often.
I'm loving it.
Had a flashback? Send your story to echoeditor@gmail.com
The other schools contributing to this branch's success is Hamilton School, Batu Lanchang, Georgetown School and Convent Green Lane.
The building has seen many upgrades as PFS and the other surrounding schools continue to pump profit into their pockets. In my tenure, I have seen McDonalds refurbish twice. Who knows how are things nowadays. The building features an ever evolving drive thru system which seems to be different every other year. Above, there is a play area for little kids and a birthday section! Only a handful of Penangites have not been into the building. The fastfood restaurant also features a Maybank ATM. Throughout my life, I have seen the restaurant shift its focus from kids to school goers.
The last I checked in 2005, the restaurant pays RM4.00 per hour.
Of the more interesting sight one can expect are:
1. Crowds of students on the upper floors making a total mess.
2. The local gangsters or samseng starting fights. News of fights go around quite fast and so you might also see:
3. Policemen, undercover and uniformed patrolling the area just to make sure no one gets hurt and occasionally:
4. Mr Lim Ah Seng, bringing the truant student back to the discipline room for skipping class.
5. Students spending the RM5 voucher that McD (as it is now called. In Australia its called Mackers) gives out ever so often.
I'm loving it.
Had a flashback? Send your story to echoeditor@gmail.com
Monday, 9 November 2009
Pavilion
The school Pavilion adorns the school field and it is the centre of many activities. The pavilion oversees the school field and it provides a spectacular view at sunrise, as it is facing the east.
Every other Wednesdays of the week, the school Uniformed bodies are gathered to mark and honour the importance of the being part of such bodies. Besides that, the pavilion is the grand stand for the School Sports day, where teachers gather and watch events as they unfold on field.
The pavilion houses among other things, the rope for the tug of war, hurdles for trek, hockey sticks, goal posts and many other sporting equipment. Beside the pavilion is a cricket pitch and the latest addition to the facilities is the men’s toilet.
Behind the pavilion lies the headmasters residence. There is a myth that under the pavilion lies a tunnel which leads to the school hall and St. Georges Girl school.
Among the more usual activities one can expect going on near the pavilion are:
1. PFS Remp Its doing willies on their motorbikes (riding a bike with one wheel in the air… without a helmet)
2. Student doing reps as required for their fitness education (Thank you Mr Yap Gark Soo)
3. Uniformed bodies having meetings during the afternoon especially scouts
4. The cricket team training to play against some foreign team
5. The Astronomy club with their hydrorocket launching rockets out into the field.
Remember what you were doing there?
Send you article to echoeditor@gmail.com
Every other Wednesdays of the week, the school Uniformed bodies are gathered to mark and honour the importance of the being part of such bodies. Besides that, the pavilion is the grand stand for the School Sports day, where teachers gather and watch events as they unfold on field.
The pavilion houses among other things, the rope for the tug of war, hurdles for trek, hockey sticks, goal posts and many other sporting equipment. Beside the pavilion is a cricket pitch and the latest addition to the facilities is the men’s toilet.
Behind the pavilion lies the headmasters residence. There is a myth that under the pavilion lies a tunnel which leads to the school hall and St. Georges Girl school.
Among the more usual activities one can expect going on near the pavilion are:
1. PFS Remp Its doing willies on their motorbikes (riding a bike with one wheel in the air… without a helmet)
2. Student doing reps as required for their fitness education (Thank you Mr Yap Gark Soo)
3. Uniformed bodies having meetings during the afternoon especially scouts
4. The cricket team training to play against some foreign team
5. The Astronomy club with their hydrorocket launching rockets out into the field.
Remember what you were doing there?
Send you article to echoeditor@gmail.com
Sunday, 8 November 2009
Exam time!
Where in the world would we be without exams!
Every year, every student faces the worst nightmare of his time. The exams I faced were the PMR, SPM and the 6th Form students will have to sit for their STPM examinations.
The highlight examination that all Frees face is currently the SPM (Sijil Penilaian Menengah). I am sure we are all familiar with all the stresses in examinations and how things can go so right or go so wrong.
Examination days are unique in their own ways and here are the top 5 ways how we can tell that exams are going in PFS
5.You see people handling notes and books, everywhere, in the canteens, on the fields, in the corridors, even in the toilets.
4.Many people take up a new language. Sign language.
3.The most popular people are the teachers and the smartest guys in class.
2.Your friend suddenly gets an injury from playing football. His writing hand is wrapped in a cast and you sign the cast!
1. The police are waiting outside ready to escort anyone with firecrackers to the nearby Balai!
Nostalgic? Add a short story today!
Send to echoeditor@gmail.com
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