Miss Kong Yoke Lan (left), Executive Director, Reliance College
It was the Reliance College Convocation 2007. After the ceremony was over, the college hosted a high tea reception for the graduates and their parents at JW Marriot Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
The high tea celebration was charged with excitement and jubilation. Not only the graduates were on cloud nine; their parents were over the moon too. For the parents, being there to witness their children wearing their graduation robes and receiving their academic credentials was a dream come true. Standing in their midst, I felt energized and proud that I was there too.
I spoke to Ms Madiline Bok, the Head of Reliance College Johor Bahru. She told me that she was overwhelmed when parents who travelled from various parents of Johor sought her out in the crowd and thanked her for helping their sons or daughters. Well, whoever says that an educator’s job is a thankless one has to rethink!
Here, I wish to salute the lady who manages Reliance College – Miss Kong Yoke Lan, the Executive Director. Every time I speak to her, I feel inspired. She is a lady who demonstrates strong values and principles, who faces challenges with unflinching courage, and who tackles the ups and downs of life with tenacity.
The guest of honour at the convocation was Dr John Pymm, Dean of School of Sports, Performing Arts & Leisure, the University of Wolverhampton, United Kingdom. He said to me, “This is one of the most impressive convocations that I have attended.”
Yes, it was indeed. It was well-planned, well-executed with a touch of class. I was eager to congratulate Miss Kong. But, she is not one who gloats over her own success, so she was quick to give the credit to her team.
In fact, earlier when I complimented her on giving the college a facelift, she remained modest and said she was grateful that the college had faith in her and gave her the opportunity to prove herself.
Well, with a head honcho who personifies dedication, perseverance and humility, I’m certain Reliance College will continue to educate and equip Malaysian youths with skills to serve the tourism and hospitality industry.
March on, Reliance College!
