The school, sponsored financially by Phoenix Tree since 2018, was established through a partnership with SSM Educational Services (SSMES) for joint management over the past 5 years. Since its establishment, the American curriculum-based international school located in Johor, Malaysia, has been a beacon of diversity, cultural respect, and academic excellence in the region. This educational institution has carved out a unique space for itself, offering students an opportunity to experience a blend of Western educational philosophy and a multicultural environment that mirrors the global society of the 21st century. We are grateful for the collaborative efforts of both parties, particularly during the challenging three-year period of the COVID pandemic.

In a recent discussion to align with the strategic development of fostering a more integrated global school network for our school, we and SSMES have mutually agreed to conclude their existing contract on June 30, 2024. Following this, the school will form a partnership with the CATS Global Schools Group to provide world-class learning experiences for our students. The partnership with CATS Global Schools (renowned for its exceptional education system), will ensure continued excellence in teaching quality, university counseling, student achievements, and global exposure on a larger scale. 

This change represented more than a simple rebranding; it heralded the institution's ambition to pursue a brighter future that would take its mission and vision to new heights. The transition to CGS was a strategic decision aimed at better positioning the school within the competitive landscape of international education and underlining its commitment to providing top-quality education that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing global context.

The adoption of the CGS brand signified the school's alignment with an established network known for its focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) initiatives, innovation, and global leadership programs. This shift in brand identity allowed the school to leverage these strengths and enhance its curricula, offering students an even broader range of educational opportunities designed to stimulate creativity, critical thinking, and global citizenship.

The school's commitment to diversity and cultural respect remained a cornerstone of its philosophy under the CGS banner. The institution continued to attract students and faculty from diverse nationalities, creating a dynamic environment where different perspectives could be exchanged, celebrated, and embraced. The cultural festivals, language exchange programs, and international days organized by the school became integral parts of its annual calendar, further solidifying its reputation as a melting pot of cultures and ideas.

As the school marches towards an increasingly brilliant future, it does so with the conviction that its past challenges have only served to strengthen its resolve and shape a more tenacious and adaptable institution. The lessons learned during the pandemic have not been forgotten but rather integrated into a more comprehensive approach to education that anticipates and responds to change.

In conclusion, the story of this international school in Johor, Malaysia, is one of resilience, adaptation, and continuous improvement. From its inception, through the trials and triumphs of the pandemic years, to the transformative upgrade to CGS, the school has proven its capacity to evolve while staying true to its core values of diversity, cultural respect, and academic excellence. As it steps into the future with confidence and clarity of purpose, this international school remains committed to providing its students with a world-class education that prepares them to become global leaders and agents of positive change.

（This article is from Forest City International School）