V&V

Former students of St. Andrew’s Secondary School (SAS), Muar, have long been generous in giving back to their alma mater. Their contributions have enabled the Muar Andreans Association (MAA), the school’s alumni body, to establish three funds dedicated to the holistic development and well-being of its students.

MAA President, Mr Tang Ching Leng, expressed his appreciation for these former students, noting that “they embody the enduring values of St. Andrew’s Secondary School—service and community—and inspire Andreans to rise above their limitations.”
The first is the Robert O’Sullivan Excellence Award, which recognises and rewards students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, sporting success, exemplary leadership in school societies and organisations, or significant contributions through community service, public recognition, or initiatives that enhance the school’s standing and development. Rooted in the Lasallian spirit of compassion and service, the award also provides financial support, enabling Andreans to participate fully in school life with dignity and confidence.

The second, The Grace’s Foundation Award, has played a vital role in advancing programmes beyond academics. Its support nurtures character, well-being, and resilience, helping the school cultivate a more caring and enriching environment in line with its mission to form individuals of integrity and purpose.

The third, the Dominic and Henry Tan Scholarship, is a cornerstone initiative that recognises and uplifts deserving students, particularly those from B40 families and minority groups. It seeks to overcome the challenges faced by less privileged students by providing opportunities regardless of academic standing. More than financial assistance, the scholarship affirms the belief in potential over circumstance, encouraging every Andrean to grow, excel, and contribute meaningfully to society.

The Principal of St. Andrew’s Secondary School, Muar, Ms Tay Peng Hoon, recorded her deep gratitude to all benefactors whose generosity continues to shape the educational journey of Andreans, especially those in need. The Robert O’Sullivan Excellence Awards the Grace’s Foundation Award, and the Dominic and Henry Tan Scholarship stand as pillars of support, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence, equity, and holistic development.

In honouring this generosity, we are reminded that the true measure of education lies not only in achievement, but in the lives uplifted and the futures shaped. St. Andrew’s Secondary School will continue to carry this legacy forward—forming Andreans of integrity and faith, inspiring excellence, and nurturing lives devoted to service beyond self, in the true spirit of the Lasallian tradition.

On the morning of 15 May 2026, the Lasallian community gathered in unity and thanksgiving for the annual La Salle Day Mass, commemorating the Founder’s Day of Saint John Baptist de La Salle. Held at Stella Maris Church, the celebration brought together the principal of La Salle Secondary School, Catholic students, teachers, parents, members of the school board, alumni, and fellow Lasallians from across the community.

Beginning at 7:00 a.m., the church gradually filled with students dressed in their school shirts, educators warmly greeting one another, and alumni returning to reconnect with the Lasallian spirit that had shaped their lives. Despite the early hour, there was a strong sense of joy, gratitude, and belonging among everyone present. More than just an annual gathering, the celebration served as a meaningful reminder of the shared mission and values that continue to unite generations of Lasallians.

The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Sylvester Wong Vun Cheong, an old boy from the Class of 1997. His presence made the occasion especially meaningful, as he stood before the congregation not only as a priest, but also as someone who had once walked the same halls and shared the same journey as many of the students present today.

In his homily, Fr. Sylvester reflected on the life and mission of St. John Baptist de La Salle, reminding the congregation that Lasallian education is not merely about academic excellence, but about touching hearts, building character, and serving others with compassion and faith.

Throughout the celebration, the participation of the students was especially inspiring. Their presence reflected the continuing legacy of the Lasallian mission — young people learning not only within classrooms, but also through faith, fellowship, and service. Teachers, parents, and school leaders stood together in prayer, reaffirming their commitment to nurturing the next generation with the values of integrity, respect, and care for others.

As the Mass concluded, the fellowship continued at the La Salle Junior Block School Hall, where the Lasallian community gathered for a joyful morning of celebration and camaraderie. The gathering also served as a Teachers’ Day celebration and a heartfelt tribute to Madam Lim Hoi Yuen on her retirement after years of dedicated service to the school community. Adding to the festive atmosphere were special student performances, which brought smiles and applause from the audience as students expressed their appreciation through music, dance, and stage presentations. Alumni reconnected with former teachers and friends, while school leaders and board members shared conversations about the future of Lasallian education in Malaysia. The atmosphere throughout the morning was filled with warmth, reflection, gratitude, and hope.

The La Salle Day Mass 2026 was not only a celebration of a founder, but also a celebration of a living mission — one carried forward “together and by association” by every member of the Lasallian family.

By Miguel Castrillo (Grade 12-SJII) and Jarred Ampania (Grade 12-SJI)

On 9 May 2026, the Singapore Mission Assembly took place at St. Patrick’s School, bringing together different stakeholders in the Lasallian family – namely De La Salle Brothers, board members, school leaders, staff, students, alumni, and parents. The Mission Assembly allowed for like-minded people to come together and engage in reflection and spiritual conversation, ensuring no voice is left unheard and no stakeholder unrepresented, contributing to the strengthening of the Lasallian mission in Singapore and the wider Lasallian community. 

As student representatives for our respective schools, we were incredibly proud and excited to represent the St. Joseph’s Institution (SJI) and St. Joseph’s Institution International (SJII) students’ perspective at the Singapore Mission Assembly. Going into the day, we weren't entirely sure what to expect. However, what struck us most was how the different members of our community—spanning varied levels of prestige, contributions, and direct involvement—all embodied the core Lasallian values in their own unique way. This turned what were initially foreign faces into a circle of friends; the communion we shared instantly made us feel right at home.
Beyond that comfort, the assembly allowed us to see how communion beautifully knits faith and service together. While God loves each of us individually, it is through the communion and community He offers us that we can do great, unspeakable things together. We witnessed a powerful microcosm of Lasallianism as a whole: the many diverse parts of our district, much like different key ingredients, worked harmoniously together over our spiritual conversations. 

Beyond strengthening our understanding of the Lasallian mission and its global scope, we learned a lot from the participants in our respective groups. For instance, in our spiritual conversations, a teacher from St. Stephen’s School shared the realities of her classroom, particularly reflecting on the challenge of having only two Catholic students in her class of 30. Yet, she encouraged her boys to participate in regional activities, such as visiting eco-camps in the Philippines or Thailand. Hearing her ambition to strengthen the international Lasallian experience, we were deeply inspired to adopt a similar mindset. 

Hearing her speak of these goals showed us the value of something that is easily taken for granted: the importance of a supportive, global community, especially one that intentionally reaches out to encompass the peripheries. It proved to us that we are never isolated in our school environments; we are part of a massive, living family dedicated to lifting one another.
Ultimately, as student representatives for our respective schools, the lasting hope and insights we gained from this experience are: Not only are we called to build communion by being persons for others, but we as Lasallians also strive to be the spark; to be the yeast; to be the catalyst for change.

Apart from taking on the role of student representatives for young Lasallians in Singapore, we also took on the added role of student facilitators. Truth be told, being a student facilitator – especially in a group full of adults – was filled with challenges and was not at all easy. Despite that, the challenges undoubtedly shaped a unique experience for both of us.

For instance, we shared similar concerns regarding the summarising of the group discussion for the assembly. We acknowledged that this role we played was pivotal in ensuring the Lasallian mission catered to each and every stakeholder that was a part of it. Knowing that, we worried whether we would be able to sustain our attention for the three hours of discussion to capture all the points mentioned by the group members. 

During the actual discussion, we struggled to keep up with the fast-paced nature of the free-flowing discussion. As such, we found it difficult to capture each point in detail. Fortunately for us, our group members were kind enough to share with us the notes they took down before and during the discussion so that consolidating all the points from each person would be easier. Having everyone’s notes definitely helped us tremendously, but on a deeper level, it also revealed the importance of collaboration.

Applying this idea of collaboration to the broader picture, we realised that our experience as student facilitators affirmed the importance of working together towards a common goal. Similarly, the Lasallian mission calls each and every Lasallian to work together in the spirit of association to achieve our common mission of serving the last, the lost, and the least. 

Through our role as student facilitators, we were able to truly appreciate everyone who was present at the 2026 Singapore Mission Assembly. To think that each and every single one of us – regardless of which stakeholder group we represented – were willing to sacrifice our Saturday morning for this Mission Assembly, it really did say something about the cohesiveness of our Lasallian family. Indeed, ‘We are one, but we are many’ – many individuals who are united by the shared dream of looking out for and engaging with our brothers and sisters in the peripheries.

We are, and will always be grateful for the opportunity presented to us in this Mission Assembly. Live Jesus in our hearts, forever!
 

The Philippine Lasallian Family came together in La Salle Green Hills last 22 May 2026 in the spirit of synodality and hope for their Philippine Sector Mission Assembly (PH SMA). The gathering was attended by around 115 representatives-- Young Lasallians, Lasallian partners, Brothers, Formators, Teachers, School leaders, and external partners-- who represent the many and diverse ministries in the Sector. 

The PH SMA served as a sacred space for communal discernment, inviting participants to listen attentively to where the Spirit is leading us as a Lasallian community. Through meaningful dialogue and reflection, delegates shared the challenges they face, the hopes they carry, and the dreams they envision for the future of the Sector and District. The assembly also provided an opportunity to assess how we have lived out our call to be Leaven to the Peripheries and to discern how we might respond to this mission with greater courage, creativity, and radical availability.

Building on the insights and aspirations that emerged from the assembly, the Philippine Sector will host the LEAD Discernment Exercises this coming November. These exercises will help weave together the stories, experiences, and collective wisdom of the Lasallian Family into a shared pathway toward the future, guiding the District as it continues to respond faithfully to the signs of the times and the needs of those entrusted to us. 

From 4-8 May 2026, science educators from various public schools convened for the third year of "Mentoring Future Leaders for Nation Building." This initiative is part of the ongoing partnership between De La Salle Philippines, De La Salle Dasmariñas – Basic Education Division, and the Security Bank Foundation Inc. This year’s program focused on empowering teachers to spearhead student-led, sustainable science projects tailored to their local communities.

Over the course of the five-day program, participants strengthened their leadership capabilities through intensive workshops on stakeholder engagement and partner mapping. They were also equipped with specialized evaluation tools to streamline the planning and execution of community initiatives. The program culminated in a series of presentations where teachers defended their community action plans before a panel of experts, receiving strategic recommendations for implementation in the upcoming school year.
 

The Philippine Sector's Basic Education Commission (BEC) convened its members and school leaders for the BEC Principals Forum, held on February 4–5, 2026, at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB).

The forum opened with a hybrid professional development session attended by subject coordinators and assistant principals from various DLSP schools. Dr. Miguel Q. Rapatan led the morning session, detailing the new DepEd guidelines for the Strengthened Senior High School (SSHS) program, specifically the proposed SHS Recognition. Building on this, Mr. Michael Lewis Ong (DLS-CSB) and Ms. Kristine Dimaculangan (De La Salle Lipa) shared insights from their pilot implementation of the new SSHS curriculum. The afternoon shifted focus toward innovation, exploring the integration of AI in classroom instruction.

The second day began with a recap of Br. Armin Luistro’s plenary session from the LEAD School Leaders Congress. Following a specific request from the principals, Dr. Ruby Ramos of De La Salle Zobel delivered a keynote on Succession Planning to support leadership continuity within Lasallian institutions. The forum concluded with a strategic calendaring session to align goals for the coming years. This gathering remains a vital opportunity for Lasallian educators to unify their vision and ensure their schools lead the way in educational excellence.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia—The Lasallian East Asia District (LEAD) is proud to announce that Datuk Johny Tan Kulai has been named the recipient of the Indivisa Manent Award. The award recognizes his more than two decades of exceptional service to the Lasallian mission at De La Salle Butitin in Nabawan, Sabah.

Datuk Johnny Tan Kulai’s steadfast commitment ensured the stability and sustainability of the community, fostering vital support and embodying the core values of faith, service, and community. His dedication extends the legacy of the late Br. Peter Phelan FSC and serves as an exemplary model for Lasallians across the region.

The award was formally presented last 25 October 2025, during the Annual Family Day Celebration at De La Salle Nabawan. 

The presentation is being graced by Brother Jorge Gallardo de Alba FSC, Auxiliary Visitor of LEAD, and Brother Andrew Loke FSC, Brother Director of Malaysia.

The highly anticipated Joint-School Visual Arts Exhibition, to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Lasallian Mission in Hong Kong, began with a Kick-off Ceremony on October 8, 2025, at La Salle College. This collaborative event, led by Chong Gene Hang College’s principal, Mr. Gary Wong, and former vice principal Ms. Debbie Chang and the visual arts teachers of the eight Lasallian schools, is set to tour the eight Lasallian schools. The Brothers, school supervisors, Lasallian Education Council members, school principals, visual arts teachers, and some students attended the event. This exhibit features alumni and present student artworks ranging from 3D models to paintings and drawings. The exhibit is curated by Wong Chun Yam Leo, an alumnus of Ching Gene Hang College.

Traveling Exhibit Schedule:
08-14 October 2025 - La Salle College
25-28 October 2025 - Chan Sui Ki La Salle Primary School
06-12 November 2025 - Chan Sui Ki La Salle College
19-21 November 2025 - Chong Gene Hang College
08-15 December 2025 - La Salle Primary School
08-12 January 2026 - St. Joseph’s College
19-23 January 2026 - St. Joseph’s Primary School
30-06 February 2026 - De La Salle Secondary School

Ms. Lam Mei Ki Maggie has been appointed the new Principal of St. Joseph’s Primary School, with her tenure commencing on September 1, 2025.

Ms. Lam is a dedicated and long-standing member of the Josephian Family, having begun her teaching career at St. Joseph’s Primary School since 2001. Her commitment to the school spans 24 years of continuous service. She was promoted to the position of Vice-Principal in 2019.

During her years in executive roles, Ms. Lam has amassed extensive experience in school administration and curriculum development. She is highly praised for her initiatives in promoting innovations and championing new  ideas within the school's operations. Her involvement as a LAFTer representative (Lasallian Formation Team) and as a facilitator for the Lasallian Formation Session for the teaching staff further demonstrates her commitment to the school's mission and ethos. With her comprehensive knowledge and strong capabilities, the school is confident that she will effectively manage the general operation of St. Joseph's Primary School and lead it to continued excellence.

On the 20th September, 2025 at 6.00pm a section of the Cinnamon Coffee House at One World Hotel, Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia, was reserved for XCKL’s 40th annual dinner.

Some 100 over ex-Xaverians, with their guests and friends congregated for the occasion.

Among the attendees were our Lasallian Brothers, namely, Dato’ Brother Paul Ho Kok Chee FSC, Brother Andrew Loke Yew Wah FSC, Brother Butch Alcudia FSC, Brother Mico De Leon FSC, Brother Peter Troung FSC, Brother Joseph Bau FSC and our senior members, Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Syed Jalaludin Bin Syed Salim, past Vice Chancellor of University Putra Malaysia and past Chairman of Bank Rakyat, Tan Sri Dato’ Kamaruzzaman Bin Shariff, the 5th Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, Dato’ Yew Cheng Hoe, a former world-class Malaysian Badminton player, Yeoh Jin Hoe, a very successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, C. Y. Chin, a former Managing Director of Maxis Malaysia, Datuk Ng Meng Poh (Adrian), Group Managing Director & Group Chief Executive Officer of a public listed company, Ms Fritzie De Vera, Vice President for Lasallian Mission of De La Salle University, Manila, Phillipines, and other Lasallian alumni under the Malaysian Federation of Lasallian Alumni Associations (“MFOLSA”).

We have a High Court Judge, Justice Dr. Choong Yeow Choy with his classmates from year of 1984 in our alma mater were in full attendance.

It is interesting to note that a few Xaverians, who have not met up with some of their classmates, since leaving our alma mater, met up at this dinner. It was an occasion of catching with one member saying ”How come we never bump into each other except at our club annual dinner?”

One of our Xaverian members, Betty Chew, contributed a cake to celebrate her guest, Tan Sri Augustine Ong Soon Hock’s 91st birthday. Tan Sri Ong, a student of St Francis Institution, Melaka and past president of MFOLSA, is also a distinguished member of innovation in the Malaysian palm oil industry.

Many attendees were seen enjoying their wagyu beef and lobsters apart from the variety of spread of dishes.

All in all, the dinner was an enjoyable event especially when our Honorable Justice Dr. Choong Yeow Choy and his lively schoolmates initiated the bellowing out of our unforgettable and beloved alma mater song.

XCKL’s 40th Annual Dinner ended with fond memories of our respective alma mater in celebrating Xaverian fellowship.

By Steven Chan Weng Choy, President of the Old Paulians’ Association

Throughout its 66-year history of the school existence in Mont LaSalle, St Paul’s Institution has continued to create history with one milestone after another. With the recent inauguration of the Paulian Arch of Excellence on October 2, 2025, the school adds yet another chapter to its legacy as a symbol of pride, unity, and collective aspirations. This much-anticipated event was officiated by YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, an alumnus of the school.

The “Paulian Arch of Excellence” is more than just a structure, it is a powerful symbol of the spirit that unites all Paulians. As YB Anthony Loke, Member of Parliament for Seremban and Minister of Transport, shared during his speech, “Every time I return to my alma mater, I feel a sense of pride and nostalgia. It’s not just the facilities that have improved over the years, but the spirit and values the school instills in its students." He emphasized that the arch’s establishment is significant to the school’s identity: “It can naturally enable students to develop a sense of belonging and unity. St Paul’s is not just any school but an institution where we learn, develop values, and become better citizens.”

Supporting this sentiment, Principal Miss Ng Ai Ching expressed that “This arch is not just an entrance, but a symbol of the identity, honour, and love of all Paulians. It gives the school a new look, but more importantly, it inspires pride and confidence among teachers and students to strive for progress, both spiritually and academically.” She conveyed her hope that the arch will continue to be a source of inspiration for current students and future generations.

The project originated from thoughtful discussions and was driven by the Old Paulian Association, which has always been a vital supporter of the school. As President Mr. Steven Chan explained, “Our efforts are about more than building a structure; it represents our teamwork, resilience, and the Paulian spirit.” This shared vision was made possible through a grassroots, personalized fundraising approach led by the initiative of the OPA Patron, Mr. Ng Yee Tim, whose strategic planning and dedication saw the project to fruition without public campaigns.

With a final cost of just under RM60,000 and thanks to contributions from generous Paulians like Mr. Chen Yet Lee and Mr. Kelvin Lee Chin Chuan, the arch symbolizes the strength of a united community. The project highlights how community support and alumni involvement continue to sustain and elevate the school’s legacy.  

The arch now stands as a lasting testament to the pride and heritage of St. Paul’s Institution. In his speech, YB Anthony Loke acknowledged the crucial role of the alumni association, stating, “Without the alumni, the school would face more challenges. Over the years, the school has gradually added facilities, and today’s arch continues this tradition of excellence.” He also encouraged students to uphold the school’s ethos of pride, gratitude, and giving back, which are the values that have sustained St. Paul’s for generations.

As we unveil this meaningful structure, heartfelt thanks go to everyone behind its realization - from the donors to project coordinators to dedicated teachers and volunteers. Special appreciation is extended to our Board Chairman, Dato Dr. Bob Samuel, and to the entire team whose tireless efforts ensured the project’s success.

The Paulian Arch of Excellence symbolizes more than just a physicality; it embodies our collective history, aspirations, and unity. As OPA President Steven Chan shared, “Despite challenges, the arch reminds us of our shared journey and unbreakable bonds as Paulians.” It’s an enduring reminder that when we come together, we can achieve greatness.

In the words of YB Anthony Loke, “St Paul’s is a school that not only educates but shapes individuals into better citizens.” May this arch stand as a proud monument of that ongoing journey and an inspiring beacon that unites past, present, and future Paulians.

Congratulations to everyone involved. Today, we created another history, and in doing so, we also strengthen our legacy for generations to come.

Last 06 October 2025, the soft launch of the 20th Anniversary Celebration of De La Salle Philippines took place at the Central House Administration. Br. Jose Mari Jimenez FSC (LEAD Visitor), Mr. Edgar Chua AFSC (DLSP President), Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC (DLSP Superintendent) graced the occasion. Also present were Ms. Marivic Mercado and Ms. Caroy Labrador--former Directors of the Advancement and Investment Management Units, respectively.

Highlights of the program include the opening of the exhibit curated by the Br Marvin Castillo FSC Library & Archives showcasing the milestones of DLSP, the panel discussion with seasoned personnel of the Central House, as well as the Eucharistic Celebration. The stories that we listened to, the images and texts that chronicled the birth and growth of DLSP and the energy that we continue bear are hallmarks of the Lasallian mission that we continue to carry out up to this day. 

Last 27 September 2025, Lasallian educators from across LEAD gathered online for Session 3 of LEAD Minds, “Maintaining and Deepening Connection with Each Other.”

Dr. Lindsay Lopez-Wisely of Antioch Unified School District guided participants through the principles of Positive Discipline and Restorative Justice—showing how respect, trust, and healing can transform our learning spaces.

The session sparked meaningful dialogue on building safe, inclusive, and compassionate communities where accountability and care go hand in hand. Thank you to all who joined and shared their insights in this important conversation.

Together, we continue to strengthen our bonds as Lasallian educators and peacemakers.