KUCHING: The Old Josephians’ Association (OJA) Kuching held the 7th Ora Et Labora Run recently with the goal of raising funds to support students’ extracurricular activities.
Themed ‘Once a Josephian, Always a Josephian’, the event drew over 1,400 participants, including students from the St Joseph’s Family of Schools comprising of SMK St Joseph, St Joseph Private School, and St Joseph International School, alumni, and members of the public.
The run also served as an opportunity for former students to reconnect and contribute to their alma mater.
OJA president Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is the Deputy Premier, officially flagged off the run.
Joining here were fellow alumni, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng and OJA honorary secretary Louis Ng.
In his speech, Dr Sim commended the strong collaboration between the three schools and their alumni, which was further demonstrated during the ‘Back to School Games’ held a day before the run.
Such events foster a stronger sense of unity among the Josephian family, he said.
“St Joseph’s Family of Schools consists of SMK St Joseph, St Joseph Private School, and St Joseph International School.
“This unique setup in Sarawak brings together the government-aided SMK St Joseph working collaboratively with two private schools in various activities,” he said.
The school’s legacy of producing outstanding graduates, many of whom have excelled as engineers, lawyers, accountants, entrepreneurs, politicians, and other professionals, significantly contribute to Sarawak’s growth.
“Notably, four out of six chief ministers or Premier of the state are alumni of St Joseph’s School,” said Dr Sim
Earlier, the run featured three categories namely a 1.4km walk, a 5km fun run, and a 10km competitive run, with separate open categories for men and women.
The men’s open category saw Tan Xian Wen claiming the top prize, earning RM350.
Mohammad Amirul and Muhamad Airell Danish finished second and third, receiving RM250 and RM200, respectively.
In the women’s open category, Cherynna Corey Chin took first place, also winning RM350, with Chopard Gwendolyn Su-Jean and Amber Tiong securing second and third place, earning RM250 and RM200, respectively.
