As the only Tamil primary school in Kelantan, SJKT Ladang Pasir Gajah in Kuala Krai continues to serve as an important educational institution for the state’s Indian community. Despite having a small student population, the school remains a place where young children can learn, grow and stay connected to their mother tongue.
Deepavali Celebration Brings Joy to the School Community
On November 3, 2026, the school celebrated Deepavali with a lively Ambang Deepavali celebration, bringing together pupils and teachers to mark the Festival of Lights.
According to a Facebook post by the Kelantan State Education Department (Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Kelantan), the celebration was made more meaningful with a contribution of ‘Duit Raya’ from Yayasan Didik Negara, presented by Mohd Hassany Hashim, Deputy Director of Education (School Management Sector), as a gesture of care and support towards the school community.
The celebration also featured a traditional kuih-making demonstration, giving pupils an opportunity to experience and appreciate festive traditions. Despite having only 20 pupils and 10 teachers, the school demonstrated that a small community can still create meaningful and memorable celebrations through togetherness and unity.
100km Daily Journey Does Not Stop Six Pupils from Attending School
While the school continues to nurture its small community, the determination of six pupils has also drawn attention. According to a report by the New Straits Times, the pupils travel approximately 100 kilometres every day to attend classes at the school.
For these young learners, attending school means embarking on a lengthy daily journey, but the distance has not become a barrier to their education. Their commitment reflects the importance they and their families place on education, particularly in ensuring that they have access to Tamil-medium learning.
Their journey also highlights the challenges faced by families living far from the state’s only Tamil school, where access to education in their mother tongue may require additional time, effort and sacrifices.
Headmaster Hopes to Establish a Hostel for Pupils
Recognising the challenges faced by pupils who travel long distances, the school’s headmaster hopes to see a hostel established to accommodate students who live far away.
Having a hostel would provide these pupils with a more convenient arrangement, reducing the burden of travelling long distances every day while allowing them to focus more on their studies.
The proposal also reflects the need for greater support to ensure the long-term sustainability and accessibility of Tamil education in Kelantan.
As the state’s only Tamil school, SJKT Ladang Pasir Gajah represents more than just an educational institution. It is a place where language, culture and community identity continue to be passed down to younger generations.
The determination of its pupils, together with the dedication of its teachers and the support of the wider community, serves as a reminder that even the smallest school can carry a meaningful legacy worth preserving.
Source: Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Kelantan Facebook, NST
