Old Frees’ Association (OFA) launched its centenary celebrations with a dinner graced by Regent of Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, who is an Old Free himself, and his consort Raja Puan Muda of Perlis Tuanku Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil.

Established 100 years ago for former students of Penang Free School (PFS), OFA is one of the oldest school alumni associations in Malaysia.

The centenary celebrations started on April 17 and would include a host of activities and events for its members until the end of the year.

Among the activities are a snooker tournament, elocution contest, carnival day, music and drama show, chess tournament, charity cycling ride, commemorative book launch and annual dinner in conjunction with Penang Free School’s 207th anniversary on Oct 21.

There will also be golf, football, tennis, badminton, hockey and table-tennis competitions for alumni members.

The dinner at the association building in Jalan Ahmad Shah, Penang, was also attended by past and present presidents, organising committee members and several alumni members.

The Penang Free School band performed a medley of songs to entertain the guests.

Tuanku Syed Faizuddin thanking the organising committee for a job well done. Next to him is Lim. — Photos courtesy of OFA

Association president Andrew Lim Chong Huat, in his speech, said the OFA had been bringing together generations of PFS alumni over the years.

“As we celebrate this historic occasion, let us take pride in all that we have accomplished but also rededicate ourselves to the work that lies ahead.

“Let us honour the legacy of those who came before us by pushing forward and serving with full heart and soul, and with a deep commitment to the PFS values,” he said.

OFA centenary celebrations committee chairman Alex Tan Hee Aik said the association had been instrumental in supporting the development of Penang Free School in various ways, from providing scholarships and financial aid to deserving students to contributing towards the school’s infrastructure and facilities.

“For the past 100 years, the OFA has served as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting generations of Frees and preserving the unique heritage of the school.

“We believe that by staying true to our values and objectives, we can contribute towards building a brighter future for our alma mater and its students,” said Tan.

A cake-cutting ceremony was held during the dinner, with Tuanku Syed Faizuddin, Lim, Tan, past presidents and committee members.

Later, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin unveiled OFA’s centenary plaque at the association building and sealed the OFA time capsule that was filled with memorabilia including photos and messages. The time capsule will be opened in 2073.

The OFA has operated from three different locations in Penang – Leith Street from 1923 to 1932, Hutton Lane from 1932 to 1939 and Mandalay Road from 1939 to 1963.

The association moved to its present premises in 1963.

To date, OFA has more than 1.500 members and the seventh Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail, is its royal patron.

Both the Raja of Perlis and Raja Muda of Perlis are Old Frees, continuing a legacy first set by Tuanku Syed Putra Al-Marhum Syed Hassan Jamalullail.