(Editor's note: This letter was sent in response to a profile of Eugene McGraw that appeared on the Alumni Spotlight page of Earlhamite Extras. To read the article, go to the Alumni Spotlight archives.)

To the Editor:

My name is Fookwah Tang a student of ACS Sitiawan in the '50s. I benefited from the introduction of Industrial Arts by Eugene McGraw. In the mid-50s it was introduced as an option, a non examination subject. I remember looking forward to coming back to school in the afternoon to attend the workshop he established with all the hand tools and workbenches.

I did not realise it then, but on reflection, the skills in the workshop had such an impact on my future. After ACS, Sitiawan, I was offered a scholarship to UK to train as a teacher. I specialised in Handicraft which I gained a distinction, the only distinction for that year at College. I came back to Malaysia to work in Kelantan, the Sultan Ismail College as an Industrial Arts teacher and an examiner in Woodwork for the Overseas Cambridge Examination Board. I left after serving my contract of five years with the Government.

I found myself back in UK reading for the Bar. Unfortunately, in the course of my studies both my parents passed on. I went back to teaching and taught Design and Technology for 20 years in London. While teaching, I was aware of the rising property prices and invested. I maintained the properties myself. It was only possible because I had the basic skills acquired from ACS Sitiawan. I took early retirement in '91.

I thank you Mr Eugene McGraw and Earlham.

Fookwah Tang,
D'arcy Hall,
White Rock Gardens,
Hastings, TN34 1LD.
UK.