For decades, generations of Koleq boys have walked past it without needing directions. Everyone simply knew where it was, because at MCKK, some landmarks do not ask for attention, as time grants it to them. The Great Wall, standing guard beside the rugby field, has long been more than concrete and paint. It is a witness. To cheers. To rivalries. To muddy boots and late evening training sessions. To stories that never needed to be written down, because the wall itself remembered.
According to the Senior Assistant of Co-curricular archives, in the early years it was proudly known as The Great Wall, a name used widely by students and alumni alike. The designation later shifted to “Peace Wall” with the establishment of the UNESCO Club at Koleq, but the truth is simple: no matter what the records say, the alumni never stopped calling it The Great Wall.
And recently, after years of weather, sun, rain, corrosion, and the daily rhythm of games played beside it, the wall finally earned what time had withheld: a second life.
Restoring What Time Tried to Claim
This refurbishment was never merely aesthetic. It began with deterioration, both physical and symbolic. A visible crack prompted concern, and a quieter erosion of identity signalled something deeper: the fading of heritage.
Recognising this, Mr. Mohamad Azhar, Class of ’93, saw that this was the moment to act; not only to repair, but to restore meaning. With support and facilitation from the Senior Assistant of Co-curricular Mr. Noor Ramdhan and final approval from HM Aimin Fadhlee, a renewal project was launched. Designs were created by Koleq’s own talents, Mr. Ariff Bani (Dayat), Class of ’96 and Dr. Shahril Khalid (CK), Class of ’96, ensuring this revival remained by Koleq, for Koleq.
Then came something remarkable: an international artistic collaboration.
Europe-based RaskrasimVSE/Global Mural Arts, led by Mr Alexey Makarovskiy, together with its local and regional team, delivered a mural executed with precision, speed, and pride. Alexey himself flew in from Georgia on the eve of the project, lending artistic expertise and presence. Within three days, the wall was transformed: disciplined workmanship, exceptional professionalism, and a result worthy of Koleq’s legacy.
Great Design. Great Mural. Great Wall.
Visual Identity for 120 Years of Excellence
In conjunction with MCKK’s 120th Anniversary (1905–2025), a new design concept was chosen: 120 Years of Excellence.
The mural begins with one of Koleq’s most recognisable icons: the Big School, built in 1909 as the British model of a public school. Yet within this symbolism lies the quintessential Malay character: the handwoven sampin. Together they reflect Koleq’s essence: a British structure, a Malay soul.
Exploding outward are vibrant waves of orange, green, turquoise, and red, departing from the former black-and-red scheme, yet preserving the bold masculinity and prestige of the institution. These colours represent:
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growth from Prep School to seniority,
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the challenges that shape intellect and character,
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and the journey from boyhood to brotherhood.
At the very centre stands the everlasting motto:
FIAT SAPIENTIA VIRTUS : “Let manliness come through wisdom.”
As relevant today as it was in 1905.
This is not decoration. It is identity, rendered in colour and structure.
Framing the mural from the opposite side, it opens with a fierce tiger in motion, where the Koleq spirit visually embodied. From its roar flows dynamic movement representing four long-standing sporting traditions:
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Rugby
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Football
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Hockey
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Basketball
These figures reflect not only games, but lifelong lessons embedded in them—teamwork, grit, strategy, discipline, and leadership.
A striking crimson column anchors the far right, stamped with four letters that require no explanation for anyone who has walked Koleq grounds.
Only when the eye journeys across the mural does its identity reveal itself: Roar of MCKK.
A collaboration between RaskrasimVSE (Europe), Global Mural Arts (Malaysia/Singapore) and Malaysia’s finest local talent, bridging heritage with international artistry.
Legacy Preserved, Spirit Renewed
This refurbishment is not an ending; it is a new beginning. The Great Wall now stands stronger, brighter, and more vibrant than ever — anchored in its history while roaring confidently into its future. It embodies a story of passion, collaboration, and brotherhood, shaped by people who chose to give back not in speeches, but in stone.
More than a structure, this restoration represents a promise: a legacy handed from one generation to the next.
In the words of Mr. Mohamad Azhar, Class of ’93:
“A parting gift from me in advance. Thank you for the five years of wonderful experience you have given my son. Tq Koleq.”
As MCKK celebrates its 120th year, the mural continues what Koleq has always done best: honour the past, elevate the present, and inspire the future.
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