Penang Free School marks 210 years with push for digital transformation

Penang Free School is marking its 210th anniversary with a renewed push to strengthen its digital infrastructure and student exposure to new technologies. — Picture via Facebook/Penang Free School

First Published: Friday, 02 Oct 2026 6:48 PM MYT

GEORGE TOWN, Oct 2 — Penang Free School (PFS), the oldest English-medium school in South-east Asia, is marking its 210th anniversary this year and is committed to strengthening its digital capabilities to better prepare students for the changing education and technology landscape.

PFS Organising Committee chairman Ivan Ooi Jieun Vei said the anniversary celebrations also provided an opportunity to mobilise support for the PFS Digital Transformation Fund, aimed at enhancing the school’s digital infrastructure and capabilities.

“This is not merely a celebration of 210 years of history. It is a rallying call to the entire Penang Free School community to step forward together and invest in the school’s future.

“We want to harness the strengths of our alumni, educators, industry and the community to ensure that students not only excel academically but are also capable of developing into future professionals, innovators and leaders,” he said.

He said the fund focused on strengthening digital infrastructure, enhancing educators’ capabilities and exposing students to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, coding and new digital technologies.

Ooi said that as of September 28, a total of 13 75-inch Hisense Smartboards had been acquired through the PFS Digital Transformation Initiative, out of an overall target of 33 units to be installed throughout the school.

He added that the Digital Transformation Fund aimed to complement, rather than replace, government funding to accelerate the school’s development.

“We are not raising funds merely to acquire technology. We are investing in capabilities, opportunities and ultimately, in the talent development that will underpin Penang’s future economy,” he said.

The highlight of the celebration is the 210th Anniversary Dinner at PFS tomorrow from 6pm to 11.30pm, featuring a special performance by Malaysia’s Queen of Rock, Ella, alongside performances by PFS students. — Bernama