"Once a Panther, Always a Panther!"
The iconic phrase, often heard echoing through The International School of Kuala Lumpur’s (ISKL) state-of-the-art campus, symbolizes the deep connection that tethered every student, parent, faculty and staff members, and alumni to the school.
The purpose-built campus is a 25-acre urban sanctuary in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, reflecting the school’s mission to inspire learners to shape their path as global citizens. The campus was designed to provide flexibility, inspire ideas, and allow opportunities for collaboration, which ISKL believes is key to effective learning.
But beyond that, the campus is home to over 1,700 students representing more than 70 nationalities. As the school enters six decades of growth and development since its inception in 1965, it has witnessed significant changes to its campuses, from its humble beginnings in Jalan Maxwell to the picturesque campus with a stunning city skyline view in Ampang Hilir.
However, one thing remains constant: the sense of community and belonging that makes ISKL a place students call home.
A curved connecting spine brought the Elementary School (ES), Middle School (MS), and High School (HS) divisions together in a single location, meeting the varied needs of each age group, where spaces adjust as students progress through the school. The Early Childhood Centre nestles within a protective, walled garden at the base of the ES, with classrooms grouped around its art, music, and science spaces. The MS is designed for a collaborative, cross-curricular program, while over at HS, it is designed to enable every learner to choose the curriculum best suited to their abilities, interests, and aspirations in preparation for life beyond ISKL.
Student learning spaces are strategically placed throughout the campus to encourage a flexible and collaborative environment. Multi-sensory and Makerspaces, three libraries, world-class science laboratories, dance, visual arts, digital art studios, and play areas provide stimulating spaces for students to learn and enjoy themselves.
The campus boasts leading-edge sports facilities with extensive playing fields, a regulation track, two gymnasia, a climbing wall, and tennis courts. Another key sports space is its Aquatics Centre, which includes:
- A 50-meter Olympic-sized competition pool.
- 25 m daily activity pool.
- A learn-to-swim pool for young learners.
The Performing Arts is the heart of the whole school, where students can showcase their talents and growth in music, dance, and drama. ISKL’s Performing Arts Centre is a central open amphitheatre showcasing local and regional community events. This complex includes the 600+ seats Robert B. Gaw Theatre, 345-retractable seats black-box style Melawati Theatre, and Dr. Norma J. Hudson Amphitheatre. From talent shows to musicals, youth orchestras, and jazz nights, students have opportunities to hone their talents and creatively express themselves.
Service Learning, Sustainability, and Community Partnerships have long been part of ISKL’s 60-year history. A structure of sustainable architecture, ISKL was the first school in Malaysia to achieve the Green Building Index Platinum rating, with spaces such as the Eco Garden and Recycling and Compost centers that encourage students to get involved. ISKL also actively shares its resources and facilities with the wider community through a variety of initiatives, including:
- Annual Southeast Asia (SEA) Forensics and Debate Tournament: Established by ISKL in 1979, this is one of the largest forensics tournaments in Asia.
- Community Service & Sustainability Fundraising Fair: A new initiative for students, parents, and employees to learn about ISKL’s community partners and discover ways to get involved and make a difference.
- Community Sports at ISKL: A year-round program in partnership with top-tier sports providers, offering sporting experiences for the community.
Exceptional education is underpinned by a two-way partnership between school and family. ISKL values parents’ involvement in the school’s life and has intentionally created spaces for parents and volunteers to meet. From a full-service coffee shop to parent lounges and dedicated Parent-Teacher Association areas, the campus design supports ISKL’s unique and warm community.
The state-of-the-art facilities are made possible with ISKL’s status as a non-profit, society-owned school. This means that revenue generated by tuition and school fees at ISKL is reinvested back into the school, enabling the school to provide its students with the best learning environment possible.
As alumni Rika from the Class of 2024 so eloquently described during her graduation speech: "The countless memories, laughs, tears, and growth that this place has fostered will always insulate the walls of the home in our hearts... It will always say, welcome home."
No matter where you are in the world, ISKL invites families to come and experience the home of the Panthers. Head on over here to book your personalized tours, and if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Admissions team at admissions@iskl.edu.my. Find yourself at ISKL today!
About ISKL
Since 1965, The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL) has been a center of excellence in international education. ISKL is a co-educational, private, non-profit school responsible for the learning journey of over 1,700 students aged 3-18, representing more than 70 nationalities, at its campus in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
ISKL offers a robust international curriculum that combines leading North American educational frameworks and global best practices. This curriculum, which recognizes that students are on a lifelong learning journey, is driven by ISKL's purpose to prepare our students for life itself. We believe in the importance of helping students shape their own paths, supporting them in discovering their passions, developing their competencies, and having an ethical impact on the world. At ISKL, every student's journey is unique, and we are committed to nurturing their growth.
ISKL is accredited internationally through the Council of International Schools (CIS) and in the United States through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Across its divisions, ISKL strongly focuses on service and sustainability and is a member of the Eco-Schools organization and the Green Schools Alliance.
As ISKL celebrates its 60th anniversary, we reflect on six decades of nurturing passions and competencies, fostering a caring community, and striving to create a better world. Join us in honoring the legacy that has shaped us for 60 years, and find yourself at ISKL!
