Welcome
from the Deputy Head of Secondary (overseeing Boarding)
Here at Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, the boarders constitute the very heartbeat of our school and indeed, the atmosphere that pervades is richer for the presence of our boarding community. While offering a traditional British boarding school model in a Malaysian setting, we are forward thinking in our approach, and while we could never replace the love and care of a student’s home, our boarding houses offer experiences, memories and friendships that are enhanced by the boarding environment. Dedicated house staff are focused on creating a ‘second home’ for our students, making sure our boarding houses are a place of comfort, support and belonging for all who live there.
Our holistic approach to education is rooted in the belief that we should be developing students beyond the bounds of the classroom, allowing them to grow and to prepare for all the opportunities and challenges of life beyond school.
We believe happy students will be successful ones, and therefore we focus on enriching all aspects of our students’ lives, aiding them in their development into confident and well-rounded young adults and global citizens.
Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar is an amazing school, full of happy students who benefit from our diverse pool of teaching experience and the abundance of facilities that sit within our 80-acre site. We are extremely proud of the international boarding provision we provide and are confident that our students are ready to ‘Make it’ in the ever changing global world that awaits them when they leave.
Mr Gary Slade Deputy Head of Secondary
Welcome & Introduction
from the Houseparent of Alia
I have been the house parent for Alia since August 2012 and before I was a tutor since January 2010, that is since the creation of this boarding house.
A French national, I have enjoyed living and teaching French in Malaysia for many years, and the welcoming warmth of the Malaysians has helped me feel like home; I have enjoyed as well the climate as I can’t stand the cold! I am still struggling with spicy food though…In my free time, I love reading, walking, practising Yoga and I have a weakness for French detective TV shows; I also discovered a recent enjoyment for climbing. I have one child (Darshini who completed her A level course in KTJ).
In the boarding house, students and staff are all proud of the Alia love that can be seen everyday, from minor interactions within the community to major events, where Alians can be seen supporting one another selflessly.
I am known as Ms. E,. and together with the other house staff members and the current students, we look forward to welcoming you and helping you make Alia your new home away from home, build fond memories, and form relationships that will last you a lifetime!
Mrs Esméralda Therese Borges Houseparent of Alia
Welcome
from the House Captain
Hi, I’m Isyha! Joining KTJ has been an exhilarating and transformative journey. Although I have been part of this vibrant school for only a year, it feels as if I have just scratched the surface of what it has to offer! One of the standout features of KTJ is the warm and welcoming atmosphere, nurtured by a close-knit community, especially within the boarding houses. Initially, like many new students, I felt anxiety and uncertainty synonymous with being uprooted from normalcy. Reaching out and voicing my concerns allowed me to overcome these challenges and comfortably adapt to KTJ life, thanks to the compassionate boarding staff and caring tutors. I feel incredibly grateful to be part of Alia’s rich history and to navigate the exciting journey of growing up alongside supportive and caring peers. Witnessing Alia’s journey through its highs and lows has fueled my determination to strive for excellence and inspire my fellow Alians to reach their fullest potential. Leading this exceptional team to victory in the upcoming academic year fills me with immense pride.
Isyha House Captain of Alia
Alia House Staff
I am excited to embark on a new journey with Alia. It all began in 2012 when I took my first steps into the world of education as a part-time teacher at KTJ. In 2023, nearly a decade later, I had the opportunity to broaden my horizons and take on new responsibilities. I transitioned from being a teacher to assuming the role of Head of Department, where I had the privilege of leading and guiding a team of dedicated educators. My journey continued to unfold as I embraced the role of a resident tutor and eventually took on the position of Assistant Head of Secondary for Key Stage 4. These roles allowed me to work closely with students, parents, and colleagues, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. I am fortunate to have a beautiful family consisting of my loving spouse and four wonderful children. Beyond my family, I have discovered a deep passion for performing arts, particularly dancing and singing.
Ms Rachel Easaw
Alia Resident Tutor
I’m Indradewi Sunda Singh, and I am married with one child. My passion is singing and dancing. My KTJ life began some 12 years ago. I started in administration and then moved onto working in the Primary School. I enjoy working with students, and I want to spend time being with them and nurturing them, both inside and outside the classroom. The opportunity to assist as a House Tutor came in September 2021 and I’m very glad to have gotten the position. Living, working, and being a member of the KTJ community, continues to be a privilege. Life here is full of great surprises and is never dull!
Ms Indradewi Sunda Singh
Alia Visiting Tutor
For two years, I have worked with KTJ as a House Tutor for Naquiah Boys and as an Exams Officer. I have experience of more than 12 years in the financial, oil and gas, and tourism industries before I joined KTJ.
I’m eager to get started on this new path with Alia House. I studied in a boarding school since I was nine years old and spent five years in a girls’ boarding school in Malaysia. After two years at KTJ, I can tell that the Alia girls have a strong camaraderie and house spirit. It brings back memories of my time spent at my previous boarding school. I am delighted to join Alia as the new House Coordinator!
Ms Erlizawani binti Jasmi
Alia House Coordinator
Contact Details
Contact person
Mr Gary Slade Deputy Head of Secondary
Mr David Hughes Assistant Head of School (Houses)
Ms Esméralda Therese Borges Houseparent of Alia
Contact details
+60 6-850 5622 garyslade@ktj.edu.my
019-239 3362 davidhughes@ktj.edu.my
House phone: 019-241 3362 esmeraldaborges@ktj.edu.my
Ms Rachel Easaw Resident Tutor racheleasaw@ktj.edu.my
Ms Indradewi Sunda Singh Visiting Tutor indradewi@ktj.edu.my
Ms Erlizawani binti Jasmi House Coordinator erlizawanijasmi@ktj.edu.my
