GIS History
Founded in 1951, Garden International School is one of the oldest British international schools in Malaysia. From its beginnings in the Lake Gardens of Kuala Lumpur, GIS has grown into one of the country’s largest international schools, now located in Mont Kiara and Desa Sri Hartamas, educating over 2,000 students.
Explore key milestones that have shaped Garden International School since 1951, reflecting our long-standing commitment to excellence in British international education.
Garden School was founded in 1951 in the Lake Gardens of Kuala Lumpur with 33 students and two British teachers. By 1955, the school relocated to Jalan Bukit Bintang, bringing together its Kindergarten and Primary sections.
The introduction of Secondary education in 1965 marked the beginning of a full through-school. In 1966, GIS became Malaysia’s first centre for the University of London GCE examinations.
As enrolment grew, the school expanded across three campuses. In 1976, GIS celebrated its Silver Jubilee with Malaysia’s first Prime Minister as Guest of Honour.
The school moved to a purpose-built campus in Cheras in 1982, with a diverse student body representing over 30 nationalities. The name “International” was adopted to reflect this global community.
GIS relocated to Mont Kiara in 1996, its current main campus. IGCSE was introduced in 1998, followed by the launch of Sixth Form and Cambridge A Levels in 2000.
Accredited by ECIS in 2002, GIS continued to expand its facilities, including the opening of a dedicated Arts Centre and the Early Years Centre in Desa Sri Hartamas.
Innovation accelerated with the introduction of a 1:1 iPad programme, the EYC Jungle School, and recognition as an Apple Distinguished School. The Sixth Form Centre was also newly opened.
GIS marked its 70th anniversary in 2021 and was recognised as a GL Centre of Excellence in 2022—the first in Asia and one of only five globally.
Recent developments include a natured inspired outdoor classroom at EYC and enhanced sports facilities on the main campus. In 2025, GIS opened a world-class Sports Complex featuring an Olympic-sized swimming pool, indoor courts, tennis courts, and a fitness suite.
A state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre, set to open in 2026, will further enhance opportunities in music, drama, and the arts.
Are you a GIS Alumni?
We look forward to welcoming you to our ever-growing global GIS Alumni Community.