Methodist Boys' School (Kuala Lumpur)
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| Principal | Mr Wong Chee Kheon |
| School type | Public |
| Founded | 1897 |
| Location | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia |
| School Motto | Ora et Labora : Pray and Work |
Methodist Boys' School, Kuala Lumpur is a secondary school located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
[edit] History
Starting with a humble shophouse with just a handful of boys more than a hundred years ago, MBSKL today is located at a site almost dominating the heart of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown. In its natural geography, Petaling Hill, on which MBS now stands, the school overlooks one of the oldest business sections of Kuala Lumpur which consists of many of the oldest Chinese business establishments.
The reason for Rev Horley in choosing this site for the Wesley Church, the parsonage and the school was not different from other pioneer missionaries who chose sites for church, school and living quarters in other parts of the country. It was to be close to the community whom they wanted to serve, but yet sufficiently removed to have the quiet serenity for school and church to function and the incumbent pastor who used to also head the school, to dwell in peace.
It is not surprising that as the country developed and as towns became cities, churches and schools which were once at the fringes of towns, are now engulfed in the midst of city centres.
In the hundred years of its existence MBSKL has more than fulfilled its role in providing education and nurture for those who passed through the portals. Numbered among the former students are successful citizens in all walks of life and professions. It is quite impossible to enumerate or name each one of them simply because they are far too many and there is no record of the progress and achievements of students who have left the school.
The school crest, as depicted in the graphic shown, has not changed throughout the years except for the removal of a "white cross" upon which the text "MBS" sits. The removal of the cross was initially made in deference to Muslim students in the school who would specifically wear the "cross-less" version of the badge. The cross was permanently removed in the 1970s as Malaysia, as an officially Muslim nation, became increasingly intolerant of Christian symbols in the public sphere. (The badges of convent schools which featured a prominent cross had to be completely redesigned.) Politically, Malaysia was developing into a primarily Muslim country with a multi-racial, multi-ethnic population who have long learnt to exist among each other with tolerance. The permanent removal of the cross reflects this subtle shift in the country's sensitivity to the Muslim community.
MBSKL was recognised, and continues to be recognised today, as one of the very top schools in Kuala Lumpur and the nation. Despite this rating, the school gates has always been open to the community and students from all backgrounds have walked through it doors. This policy of openness has resulted in a colourful history for the school.
