Message from the Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, Most Rev. Julian Leow Beng Kim.
Our Ethos
Our schools are Catholic in character and Malaysian in orientation. We believe in God and care for all God’s creation. We believe in the dignity and potential of all persons and are committed to the holistic education of our children. We promote a liberal, caring and disciplined learning environment that encourages human endeavour, achievement and the quest for academic excellence whilst providing for the proper formation of character with love for all people, irrespective of background.
We achieve this through purposively designed curricula and co-curricular programmes that blend the pursuit of knowledge with the inculcation of values and the acquisition of skills, all of which contribute to the growth of the whole person and the development of model citizens of tomorrow.
Our Vision
The preferred choice and centre of excellence in primary and secondary education for the development of the whole person.
Our Mission
Through quality-driven, knowledge-based and value-enriched education we aim to produce loyal, thinking and caring, citizens of high moral standards who serve our society in truth and justice.
A Message from
BGen (Rtd) Dato’ Richard Robless Chairman Council of Directors Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon (YTDV)
Education of our young is an investment for the future and Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon was incorporated as a charitable foundation with this aim in mind to provide quality and holistic education in as affordable a manner as possible reaching out to as many as possible, limited only by our own physical and financial capacity.
Our schools, both national and international, which are branded as Stella Maris, have been established to prepare our young to meet demands of the future and the challenges of life, following the noble traditions of the great mission schools in the years gone past.
Our students are provided with an educational experience that is wholesome and balanced in body, mind, soul and spirit; one that not only adds knowledge and builds intellectual capacity but also nurtures our young with the right values and critical skills to enable them to maximise their potential and succeed in all that they endeavour for the betterment of themselves, their families and community.
Within a school environment that is liberal, caring, disciplined, value-focused and enterprise-driven, we are confident that our students will grow to become model citizens of tomorrow with sound moral standards and excel in service to country and society as true beacons of honour, truth, justice and peace.
To all our students and those who plan to join us, we wish you a truly fulfilling, enriching, enjoyable and exciting educational experience with and in Stella Maris. To parents, we thank you for your support and for entrusting your young to our care. To one and all, Happy Schooling and Welcome to the Stella Maris family.
Education of our young is an investment for the future and Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon was incorporated as a charitable foundation with this aim in mind to provide quality and holistic education in as affordable a manner as possible reaching out to as many as possible, limited only by our own physical and financial capacity.
Our schools, both national and international, which are branded as Stella Maris, have been established to prepare our young to meet demands of the future and the challenges of life, following the noble traditions of the great mission schools in the years gone past.
Our students are provided with an educational experience that is wholesome and balanced in body, mind, soul and spirit; one that not only adds knowledge and builds intellectual capacity but also nurtures our young with the right values and critical skills to enable them to maximise their potential and succeed in all that they endeavour for the betterment of themselves, their families and community.
Within a school environment that is liberal, caring, disciplined, value-focused and enterprise-driven, we are confident that our students will grow to become model citizens of tomorrow with sound moral standards and excel in service to country and society as true beacons of honour, truth, justice and peace.
To all our students and those who plan to join us, we wish you a truly fulfilling, enriching, enjoyable and exciting educational experience with and in Stella Maris. To parents, we thank you for your support and for entrusting your young to our care. To one and all, Happy Schooling and Welcome to the Stella Maris family.
Our Heritage
2018
The Official Opening of Stella Maris International School
The school offers Primary and Secondary curricula in a modern building equipped with purpose-built facilities including a Sports Centre complete with a swimming pool and a multi-purpose hall for indoor sport and schools events.
2013
Sekolah Rendah Stella Maris Damansara opened
is located in the safe and established Medan Damansara residential suburb
2003
Sekolah Rendah Stella Maris in Ampang
The Stella Maris Primary School in Ampang is located on a hill-slope in Madonna Heights, surrounded by lush greenery.
1996
The first school, Sekolah Menengah Stella Maris, opened its doors
in January 1996 when the Ministry of Education acknowledged the school as “an institution owned by the Catholic Church”.
Our History | YTDV
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History of YTDV
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
In an effort to promote and preserve the Catholic Church’s traditional interests and best practices in education as well as to provide greater educational opportunity and choice at affordable rates to as many as possible with special attention to the marginalised and less-privileged, then Titular Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, the late HE Anthony Soter Cardinal Fernandez DD, with the support of the Bishops of Peninsula Malaysia, and the Malaysian Catholic Education Council (MCEC) approved plans to expand the Church’s involvement in education, through formal private education.
Inspired by the leadership of the late Cardinal Fernandez, the revival of Catholic education in the Archdiocese began in earnest in 1991 when Detik Restu Sdn Bhd was incorporated to spearhead activities in the field and business of private education. The first school, Sekolah Menengah Stella Maris, opened its doors in January 1996 when the Ministry of Education acknowledged the school as “an institution owned by the Catholic Church”. The blessing of the school was officiated by the Apostolic Delegate, Archbishop Luigi Bressan on 27 April 1996 and this was followed by its official opening on 16 August by then Datuk Bandar of Kuala Lumpur, Tan Sri Dato’ Kamaruzzaman Shariff. The inaugural Board of Governors was chaired by Brig Gen (Rtd) Dato’ Richard Robless with Tan Sri Lim Leong Seng, Rev Fr Peter Bretaudeau, Rev Bro Michael Jacques FSC, Mr Patrick Tan Kim Loong, Dr Ian Chia Kay Meng, Mr Leslie Fredericks, Dr Kurt Svrcula, Mr Joseph Er and Mr R Santhanaraj as members. Rev Bro Dr Cassian Pappu FSC played a significant role in the design and structure of the school as well as the preparation of curricula and Rev Bro Casimir Hannon FSC served as the school’s first Principal.
Recognising the need for more focus in its investments and in anticipation of the growth and development of more schools and institutions, it was later decided to organise and group all Archdiocesan private education schools, activities and assets under one roof.
Towards this end, Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon (YTDV) was incorporated on 2ndNovember 2000 as a company “Limited by Guarantee” and charged with the objective to “foster, develop and improve education of all kinds approved under the education laws of Malaysia and in such manner as may, from time to time, be decided upon by the Yayasan including but without prejudice to the generality of the provision, the founding and maintaining of scholarships, chairs at schools, colleges and universities in Malaysia”.
The original members of the Council of Directors approved by the Minister of Home affairs comprised:
Brig Gen (Rtd) Dato Richard Robless as Chairman and Tan Sri Sir Lim Leong Seng, Mr Mathew Mathai, Rev Bro Michael Jacques, Dato’ Sir Dr Peter Mooney, Dato’ Lim Boh Ang, and Dato’ Francis Huang as Directors of the Council.
All Stella Maris schools and educational institutions are owned and operated by Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon, the management and control of which is vested in its Council of Directors.
Our History | Stella Maris
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History
History of Stella Maris Schools in Malaysia – by Mr. S. Bhakti Reddy, headmaster of Sekolah Menengah Stella Maris, from January 1969 – December 1991
From Humble Beginnings to Shining Star: The Story of Stella Maris Stella Maris, a name synonymous with academic excellence in Kuala Lumpur, has a rich history rooted in humble beginnings. In 1969, where a small building once housed part of St. Anthony’s Boys School (founded 1932), Sekolah Menengah Stella Maris emerged to serve students seeking a second chance after failing their exams in government schools.
Church of St. Anthony’s Pudu [circa 1932]
Rev. Fr. Noel Clement – Parish Priest of St. Anthony’s Church [1955 – 1968]
With 70 students and a dedicated leader, Mr. S.B. Reddy, the school emphasised discipline, moral values, and a quiet learning environment. This formula, coupled with dedicated teachers, fostered a strong reputation, attracting students even from other states.
Mr. S.B Reddy
The school thrived for years, offering morning and afternoon sessions to accommodate the high demand. However, with changing education systems and competition from private colleges, enrolment declined in the 1990s.
Yet, the Star of the Sea (Stella Maris) rose again. The school’s transfer to the Kuala Lumpur Archdiocese led to a magnificent new building, a testament to the enduring commitment to education
The Most Reverend Tan Sri Dominic Aloysius Vendargon (29 August 1909 – 3 August 2005)
His Eminence Cardinal Anthony Soter Fernandez (22 April 1932 – 28 October 2020)
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
THE SCHOOLS
The Stella Maris group of schools is owned and operated by Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon, a foundation established primarily “…to receive and administer funds for education, scientific and charitable purposes, all for the public welfare, and for no other purposes…” and, to this end, “…to foster, develop and improve education of all kinds approved under the education laws of Malaysia…” amongst others. The schools are private and co-educational. They are registered with the Ministry of Education and follow curricula approved nationally and internationally.
Today, Stella Maris stands tall, its rich past a foundation for a bright future, ready to serve generations to come.
Our School Badge & Flag
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Badge & Flag
Our School Symbols: Badge and Flag
The Stella Maris badge and flag are more than mere identifiers; they are powerful symbols that foster pride, unity, and belonging within our school community. Both these symbols encapsulate the school’s identity, values, and aspirations, serving as a visual representation of our collective journey towards excellence.
Shared Symbolism Both the badge and flag are grounded in a colour palette rich with meaning where: Dark Green represents stability, strength, integrity, and hope; reflecting the school’s bedrock of being Catholic in character and Malaysian orientation. It evokes a sense of tradition, dependability and trust.
White signifies justice, purity, truthfulness, openness, and transparency; and it emphasises the school’s commitment to sound moral standards and ethical practices based on our core values of justice, truth, peace, compassion, service and love.
Gold represents excellence, success, prestige, and honour; highlighting our dedication and determination in providing our students with the best education to maximise their potential and prepare them for higher orders of achievement and accomplishment.
Yellow signifies optimism, joy, brightness, and creativity, aligning with the school’s focus on fostering a positive learning environment
Within this vibrant backdrop of colours lie two powerful symbols at the heart of our badge:
A star, representing “Stella Maris” (Star of the Sea), one of the titles of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the school’s patroness. It also signifies the “Light of Enlightenment,” guiding the school’s path to success. An open book represents knowledge and the Holy Bible, the foundation upon which the school’s code of conduct and ethics are built.
A Duality of Mottos: Our badge proudly displays two mottos. “Abadikan Sinar Kecemerlangan,” which translates to “Let the Light of Excellence Endure.” This powerful phrase encapsulates the school’s vision for its students to achieve lasting excellence. Additionally, “Semper Excelsius” appears on the badge in Latin, meaning “Excellence Always.” This motto serves as a constant reminder to strive for continuous improvement and reach ever greater heights.
A Shared Identity Both our badge and flag are tangible expressions of our school’s identity. They unite students, staff, alumni, and supporters, fostering a sense of belonging and pride. By wearing the badge or witnessing the flag flying high, we are reminded of our shared values, aspirations, and the enduring legacy of Stella Maris.
Our School Rally/Song
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Our School Song: A Rallying Cry
Our school song, “Loyalty” is a powerful anthem that embodies the spirit of Stella Maris. It’s a call to action, a celebration of unity, and a reminder of our commitment to excellence.
Loyalty and Strength The song opens with a declaration of unwavering loyalty to our school, symbolised by the “banners flying high.” This loyalty is paired with strength and bravery, qualities essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Oh, we are marching with a song, A song of loyalty. We see our banners flying high, Symbol of victory Our Stella Maris we all hail, Our love shall never fail For we are strong and brave, So let our colours wave And let us show our loyalty to thee.
Excellence in Every Corner “Loyalty” emphasises the pursuit of excellence in all areas. The lyrics mention the gym, lab, and classroom, representing the multifaceted approach to learning offered by Stella Maris. Leading the Way The song also highlights our role in shaping the future. We are encouraged to be “unafraid to take the lead,” charting a course for a “future breed.”
Carve a way before us, March in honour of the school In the gym, the lab, the classroom Let us give our best, it is the rule Charting the way for a future breed, Unafraid to take the lead, So come on one and all, Let us rally to the call, Let us lift our song with all our hearts, (Repeat)
A Unified Voice The final verse unites all members of the school community with a call to “rally” and “lift our song with all our hearts.” Singing “Loyalty” is not just about the words, but about the collective energy and spirit it evokes.
A Song for All “Loyalty” is more than just a song; it’s a shared identity that binds us together. It reminds us of our common purpose and inspires us to achieve great things, both individually and collectively.
His Grace Most Reverand Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim Advisor Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
BGen (Rtd) Dato’ Richard Casimir Robless Chairman Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
Dr. Leong Mun Yoon Director Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
Dr. Tarcisius Chin Nyet Leong Director Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
Alexander Anthony @ Roy Anthony Director Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
Philip Satish Rao Director Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
Peter Loh Chee Khen Director Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
Wen Lieh Lieh Director Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
Rev. Fr. Alvin Ho SJ Chaplain Yayasan Tan Sri Dominic Vendargon
