Convents of the Saint Maur Sisters - Chen Yen Ling - 9786299812265 - Clarity Publishing

Retrace the road of progress for women pioneered by the St. Maur Sisters, visit their convents to experience nostalgia in pictures and marvel at their achievements for more than 170 years. Known presently as the Infant Jesus Sisters, their epic journey through Malaya transitioning into Malaysia, Singapore, Japan and Thailand was one filled with perils, hardship and sacrifices in their early days.

Still they prevailed, operating numerous schools to educate girls, raising countless orphans and caring for the abused, sick and desolate. Every country has its own story, greatly influenced by its political and social developments. In Malaya – then including Singapore – increasing territorial control by the British created the need for English medium education; while in Japan, learning European languages gained popularity as the country westernised following the Meiji Restoration.

World War II was cruel to all. In Malaya, English education was forbidden while in Japan most of the sisters’ buildings were flattened by bombs. But it did not break the spirit of the survivors and soon their schools were flourishing again. In Thailand, consequent to the unavailability of Malayan schools following a surge in demand by locals, the sisters’ mission and schools were re-established.

Convent school education continues to present day, albeit in varied manner in each country. But all remain unified to the principle of being “Simple in virtue and steadfast in duty”, promulgated by the no nonsense nuns.