KUCHING, July 19 – More than 140 alumni of SMK St Joseph’s returned to their alma mater for the annual “Back to School 2026” programme, held in conjunction with the Sarawak Independence Day celebration, marking the largest turnout since the initiative began.
The event brought together former students, teachers and current students for a day of sports, fellowship and appreciation of the school’s long-standing legacy in educating generations of Sarawakians.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who attended the programme, said the annual gathering was inspired by a memorable experience involving the late former Sarawak Chief Minister, Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, in 2016.
Dr Sim recalled that Adenan had visited SMK St Joseph’s in February 2016 to sign the condolence book following the passing of Brother Columba. After signing the book, Adenan requested to visit his former classroom, where he fondly pointed out the seat he once occupied as a student.
According to Dr Sim, that visit was believed to be the last time Adenan returned to his old school. The experience made him realise that many former students may never have had the opportunity to revisit the place where they spent their school years, leading to the creation of the annual “Back to School” programme.
“This programme allows former students to reconnect with their school, teachers and classmates while sharing meaningful moments with the younger generation,” he said.
Also present at the event was Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim, who joined the alumni and students in the celebration.
Traditionally, the “Back to School” programme is held in October alongside the school’s annual Back to School Run. However, this year’s edition was brought forward and incorporated into the Sarawak Independence Day celebrations through the support of the Old Josephians’ Association (OJA).
Dr Sim also announced that the Back to School Run 2026 will take place on Sunday, Oct 24. He encouraged former students to organise their classmates and participate in the event while maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.
Throughout the programme, alumni and students took part in various sporting activities organised by the OJA committee and school coordinators. The competitions included badminton, basketball, squash, table tennis, futsal and pickleball, strengthening the bond between past and present generations of St Josephians.
Dr Sim expressed his appreciation to the teachers, coordinators and OJA committee members for ensuring another successful edition of the programme. He jokingly remarked that several of the “old boys” might require medical leave after taking part in the competitive sporting events.
A highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of a new basketball mural created by students and teachers. Dr Sim praised the artwork, noting that it took five days of continuous work, both during the day and at night, to complete.
He said the mural represents more than just an art project, describing it as a lasting tribute to SMK St Joseph’s rich history and its upcoming 145th anniversary. He added that the mural symbolises the school’s enduring contribution to educating generations of “anak Sarawak” and preserving its proud heritage for future generations.
The annual “Back to School” programme continues to strengthen the close relationship between alumni and the school community while celebrating the values, traditions and educational excellence that have shaped SMK St Joseph’s for more than a century.
