Honoring GIS History
Garden International School (GIS) is a renowned educational institution with a rich history and a proud heritage. Established in 1951, GIS holds the distinction of being one of the oldest first British International schools in Malaysia.
GIS initially began its journey at a modest location in Lake Gardens, Kuala Lumpur, where it started as a nursery school with only a handful of students. However, as the demand for quality international education grew in Malaysia, GIS expanded its facilities and after several moves, settled at its current address in Mont Kiara in 1996.
GIS was one of the pioneers to locate in Mont Kiara, then a largely undeveloped area with lush landscapes. The decision to relocate here was a significant one and showcased GIS’s forward-thinking approach. An area which is less dense would afford expansion opportunities including providing ample space for the school to expand its facilities, construct new buildings, and create a campus that meets its specific needs. This allowed the school to accommodate the growing student population and offer a wider range of facilities and amenities.
The opening of the GIS Bukit Kiara Campus 1996 by YB Dato' Khalid Yunus, Deputy Minister of Education, representing the Minister of Education.
At the time of its move in 1996, Mont Kiara was an emerging and rapidly developing area. GIS’s presence in the region played a pivotal role in shaping the reputation and popularity of Mont Kiara as a preferred residential and educational hub.
As one of the first educational institutions to set up in Mont Kiara, GIS brought with it a legacy of academic excellence and a strong commitment to nurturing young minds. Its establishment in the area attracted families and expatriates who were seeking a high-quality international education for their children. The school’s reputable standards and rigorous curriculum quickly gained recognition, positioning GIS as a leading educational institution in Malaysia.
Over the years, Mont Kiara has blossomed into a vibrant and thriving community, with an array of schools, residential developments, and commercial centres. GIS’s early presence in the area has undoubtedly contributed to the area’s growth and popularity, attracting other educational institutions, businesses, and residents to invest in this location.
Despite its flourishing surroundings, GIS is committed to uphold the quality of education ensuring every child gets the personalised attention they need to help them thrive.
Community Initiatives
Care in the Community
The Care Movement is an initiative across all the Taylor’s Schools aimed at cultivating a culture of Care for Self, Care for Others and Care for the World. This focused initiative allows students to learn about the importance of caring for family members, friends, and communities. In our community projects, this is embodied in volunteering in the community and environmental stewardship.
Volunteerism
GIS encourages its students, staff, and parents to participate in volunteering efforts or provide resources for community projects. Offering support and assistance to the community in times of need reinforces community care. Here are just some of our many activities!
Street Feeding and GIS Street Store
This initiative offers donated food and clothing to the urban poor and homeless in the Klang Valley, addressing their essential needs.
Discovery Week
This is a week-long program in which our students choose one of our community projects to engage with environmental and animal charities, aiding refugees and local schools, fostering social responsibility and empathy among participants.
Garden Party Fundraising
The Garden Party Fundraising event raises funds for their five core charities, this year being Free Tree Society, Make a Wish Foundation, GIS Street Feeding, Dignity for Children, and Global Environment Centre. It fosters community involvement while supporting vital causes to make a positive impact on society.
Student-Led Charity Drives
Through student-led charity drives like Shoe Drive, Lost Food Project, Street Feeding, and Turkey Earthquake Donation Drive, our students are empowered to make a difference and help others. Encouraging their initiatives fosters a sense of compassion and community engagement, creating a positive impact on various causes.
Environmental Initiatives
Environmental Stewardship
The school demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability, and this forms an important component of our community care. We have implemented eco-friendly practices, such as recycling programs, tree-planting, energy conservation measures, and maintaining green spaces.
Solar Energy
Solar panel installation serves the environmental purpose by harnessing the sun’s renewable energy to generate electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, curbing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting a sustainable energy future.
Second-Hand Uniform Shop
The opening of a Second-Hand Uniform shop aims to promote sustainability and reduce waste by facilitating the recycling and reuse of preloved uniforms. In addition to offering affordable clothing options, the initiative fosters a sense of community and responsible consumption among students and parents.
Cutlery Project
The objectives of the Cutlery Project are to eliminate single-use plastic cutlery and promote sustainable alternatives. By implementing reusable or compostable cutlery, the project aims to reduce plastic waste, minimise environmental pollution, and raise awareness about the importance of eco-friendly practices for a greener future.
Traffic Management
We realise that traffic is a key challenge for the school and our neighbouring areas. Therefore, we have put in place several strategies to try to help minimise traffic during pick-up and drop-off times. These include:
- Staggered school hours for different phases of the school to help smooth the traffic flow during drop-off and pick-up times.
- Encouraged students who live within walking distance to walk to school.
- Currently, about 35% of GIS students walk to school.
- Constructed a new drive-through ramp to help streamline traffic flow between Jalan Kiara 3 and Jalan Kiara 5.
- Introduced a free shuttle bus service located near the school in addition to the normal bus service, thereby reducing the number of cars during peak times.
Upcoming new facilities
Facilities for the Community
Our commitment to supporting the community is exemplified through the use of our school facilities, accommodating various sports clubs, guide groups, and events. Additionally, we warmly welcome and frequently host Refugee gatherings such as the joyous Refugee Christmas party, along with engaging local school activities led by students through CCA clubs.
Now, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming addition of a new world-class sports centre, a true gem for our wider community. This exceptional facility will serve as a versatile venue for sporting events, performances, and various community gatherings beyond regular school hours. Anticipate the following top-notch facilities within the new sports centre:
- An Olympic-size swimming pool
- Two indoor basketball courts
- Two tennis courts
- Fully equipped gym/fitness suite
- Convenient basement car park
- Expansive outdoor sports field
We believe this remarkable sports centre will create boundless opportunities for everyone in our community to thrive, grow, and connect.
Lives within Mont Kiara
Community Care Lines
Here are some important emergency numbers and public amenities contacts for the Mont Kiara area:
Lives within Mont Kiara
Community Care Lines
Here are some important emergency numbers and public amenities contacts for the Mont Kiara area:
Contact the police in case of emergencies, crimes, or suspicious activities.
Reach out to the fire department in case of fire emergencies or accidents requiring immediate assistance.
Dial this number to request an ambulance or seek medical assistance during emergencies or accidents.
Amenities | Contact details |
|---|---|
Local Council Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) | General line: +603-2617 9000 Website: http://www.dbkl.gov.my Contact the local council for enquiries regarding public amenities, municipal services, waste management, or public infrastructure in the Mont Kiara area. |
Mont Kiara Management Corporation (MKMC) | Hotline: +603-6203 7194 Email: admin@montkiara.com.my MKMC manages the maintenance and operations of common areas, facilities, and security services within the Mont Kiara area. Contact them for any concerns or queries related to the management of the community. |
Mont Kiara Residents Association (MKRA) | Website: http://www.mkra.com.my MKRA represents the interests of residents in Mont Kiara. They address issues related to community welfare, development projects, and advocate for residents’ concerns. Visit their website for more information or to get in touch. |
