Kota Kinabalu: St James Primary Cluster School celebrated a significant milestone with the grand opening and blessing ceremony of its new multi-purpose building, recently.
Held at the St James Hall from 9am to 11am, the event marked a momentous achievement in the school’s development.
The ceremony was attended by board members, representatives of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), students, the organising committee, and distinguished guests.
The ceremony commenced with a blessing ritual led by Archbishop Datuk Wong Soo Kau. In his address, he expressed gratitude to donors, educators and community members for their unwavering support.
He said the school’s progress was the result of collective dedication over the years.
The completion of the new building, he said, symbolises both the enhancement of the learning environment and the continued growth of education.
Following the blessing, Archbishop Wong signed a commemorative plaque and underscored the importance of community involvement in education.
He called on parents, teachers, alumni, and leaders to maintain their commitment to the school’s success.
Chairman of the Building Committee, John Tan, provided insights into the project’s timeline. Foundation work began in 2017, with construction completed in 2020.
Students began using the facility in 2022, but final approvals were only secured in 2024.
The official blessing and inauguration took place on Feb 22, 2025.
Additionally, in 2024, the building’s auditorium was named in honour of Datuk John Su for his contributions to the school’s development.
Tan said the building’s role in improving students’ learning experiences and acknowledged the generosity of those who donated classrooms and special rooms.
He urged continued support for interior renovations to fully optimise the facility.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held, officiated by key donors who contributed to the construction of special rooms and classrooms.
Among them were Datuk Joseph Ambrouse Lee, Madam Vivian Lau, Datuk John Su, George Ng, Couple Welfare Foundation, Sabah Credit Corporation, PERKASA CONSTRUCTION S/B, Wong King Ngien, Datuk Chin Chee Kee, JP, Globinaco S/B, Kelly Chee, AP COL Geotechnics S/B, Tengku Datuk Ahmad Fuad and C. Future S/B.
Chairman of the Board, Joseph Chai JP, reiterated the need for additional funding to complete the interior renovations of the special rooms. He called on the community for continued financial support to ensure the building serves as an optimal learning and development space for students and educators alike.
He also extended special appreciation to past PTA Presidents Fannie Chin and Josephine Lai, current PTA President Sofian Ku, former and current Board members, past school principals, and current principal Andrew Chong.
