Since SJK (C) Chong Fah Phit Chee was founded 109 years ago, in 1909, it gives an indication as to how long ago the Chinese community settled in Pudu.
Till today, Pudu is still known as Half Jungle in Chinese. It harkens back to the early development days of Kuala Lumpur when it was partially developed..
Half Jungle was the area between Pudu Jail and Cheras. Search to see my photo essay on Pudu Market for more insights.
Back to the school. From its original humble wooden building, a new building was built in 1952. It is both privately and publicly funded. In 2011, funds were raised to modernise the old building from 1952.
The ceiling, roof and wiring were replaced with funds from a community chest to keep the school and students safe. Inset picture of renovated building from Community Chest website (http://www.commchest.org.my/).
I don’t like the school emblem or logo that was possibly inspired by the winged emblem or logo of Harley Davidson. I forget that school badges often took this shape. Used to collect metal school badges as a hobby. The enameled button badges have a safety pin welded to the back.
I wonder if people still collect school badges? It was gratifying and an honour to do badge exchanges when visiting another school for a sports event or science fair. Life was simple then.
While photographing the Pudu Market, I met many female traders who were from the more than a century old Pudu English Secondary School (PESS). I know my Fb friend Kimyee Wong was. 🙂
It is located at Jalan Foss, opposite the former F&N factory. I think I may have collected its unique purple badge. Sadly, I don’t know where my collection is now.
#school #chineseschool #pudu #history #pudumarket #pess #landmark #documentaryphotography #chongfahphitchee