Why is this all-girls school called Convent Bukit Nanas? Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Convent Bukit Nanas is an iconic institution. It stands proudly in Kuala Lumpur. Its history is as rich as the city itself. Today we will uncover the story of this esteemed school.
Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Convent Bukit Nanas abbreviated CBN began in 1899. Three Sisters of the Holy Infant Jesus arrived in Kuala Lumpur. They sought to establish a school. Their mission started humbly in a garden shed. This shed belonged to Nyonya Ah Yok. It was near the River Gombak on Ampang Road.
In March 1899 the Convent School officially opened. It had a dozen children. Many were children of immigrants. These immigrants worked on the railway lines. By the second year the school grew. It had 60 day pupils. The sisters also operated an orphanage.
Towkay Goh Ah Ngee assisted the sisters. He provided temporary residence in Semenyih. He also helped them acquire the Victoria Hotel in Brickfields. In 1901 the Victoria Hotel became the school’s new home. It housed 17 sisters 60 orphans and students.
The school continued to grow. By 1911 there were 308 children. This prompted the need for new classrooms. The school moved to Bukit Nanas. The location was on top of a hill. Pineapples and coffee once grew there. The Sisters bought the land for $40000. They sold the old property for $60000. The new building cost $26000. Public contributions covered the shortfall.
CBN faced challenges during World War II. It became a sanctuary for refugees. The sisters cared for 400 refugees. They grew vegetables and drew water from a well.
After the war CBN returned to its original state. The Nazareth Building became part of the school. Physical education and science were introduced. The primary and secondary schools separated.
CBN is known for its academic excellence. It is a Cluster School of Excellence. It consistently ranks among the top schools in Kuala Lumpur.
CBN also boasts a strong alumni network. The Old Girls’ Association supports the school’s ethos. They uphold its values.
The school badge represents love labor and faith. The school song inspires students to be steadfast in duty. CBN’s cheerleading team Xavier showcases school spirit. They have won many awards.
Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Convent Bukit Nanas stands as a testament to faith education and community. Its legacy continues to shape young women. They will continue to contribute to Malaysia and beyond. The school motto remains: Simple in Virtue Steadfast in Duty.