THE ENROLMENT RATE among Penang’s public high schools is declining,[1] but not in St. Xavier’s Institution (SXI)— the second-oldest school in Malaysia as well as the first Lasallian institution based in Asia. Walking down its bustling corridors one Friday morning, I was greeted by students in brightly coloured co-curricular attires, who smiled as they headed towards the canteen. I was there to talk to brother-director, Jason Blaikie, and board of governors’ chairman, Victor Tan, about what it was that kept SXI afloat. From these interactions, I gained the sense that the answer involved something intrinsic to the culture of this 172-year-old institution.
How SXI Keeps Enrolment High
by
Justin Teoh
Previous Post
Next Post
Addressing PISA Disparities to Propel Penang’s Semiconductor Industry
5 min read
WITH THE SWIFT beauty of mother earth. evolution in communication technology, it becomes increasingly crucial for a country like Malaysia…
You might also like
On Relationality and Geography: An Interview with Madeleine Thien
5 min read
In anticipation of Madeleine’s appearance at the George Town Literary Festival (GTLF), she talks about her new novel, the writing process and her identity.
Nira Nipah: The Sweet Sap of Penang
4 min read
Coastal dwellers across Southeast Asia—especially those living in the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia—have, for centuries, tapped the stem of the nipah flower to collect its sap, known as nira.
Potehi Evolves in Southeast Asia: In Penang, it’s Fate is in Good Hands
5 min read
In Penang, Potehi thrived in the late 1940s and well into the 60s and 70s. Unfortunately, Potehi lost its popularity to television and film by the 80s. Today, there are only four troupes left, with a majority of the members aged 60 and above.
