The Tun Tan Cheng Lock College of Nursing, also known as Assunta College of Nursing, began in 1961 as the first private nursing institute in the country. Over the years, it has evolved from a single classroom to a modern, well-equipped facility. Notable milestones include being recognised by the Malaysian Nursing Board for outstanding performance in board examinations and receiving the Anugerah Kolej Cemerlang Ketua Pengarah Kesihatan 2012 (Emerald Award) for quality education. The college emphasises a balance between tradition and progress, focusing on both historical foundation and forward momentum. Trusted by private and government hospitals alike, the college’s reputation is bolstered by its long history and commitment to excellence. Awards and accreditations, such as those from the Malaysia Qualification Agency (MQA) and the Five Stars (Excellent) My Quest Certification, further attest to its dedication to providing quality nursing education and training.
To be the centre of excellence for nursing education.
To produce qualified, professional, competent and caring personnel for nursing and healthcare services through the provision of a holistic, quality-driven and value-enriched educational and learning experience.
Sister Madonna K. Purcell, F.M.M. starts the college with the goal of giving young girls career prospects in nursing. In its second year, the student quota is raised to 40 with the Malaysian Nursing Board's approval.
The School of Nursing becomes an approved affiliated training school. Sister Rosemarie Higgins F.M.M. joins as tutor and forms the Assunta Students' Faculty Cooperation Association (ASFCA), giving rise to the student newsletter "JOY". Students learn from sister tutors and doctors, with hands-on experience from ward sisters and staff nurses, and take part in community work for the poor.
As the student population and patient numbers grow, the need for a dedicated school becomes clear. The Tun Tan Cheng Lock School of Nursing is officially opened by ex-Prime Minister Y.T.M. Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Abdul Hamid.
The Educational Committee of the Tun Tan Cheng Lock School of Nursing is formed, advising the Board of Assunta Foundation and faculty on student education. Graduates are automatically absorbed into the hospital's employment.
Students begin being accepted on scholarships, subject to a contract requiring them to work for the hospital after graduating.
The certificate in nursing is upgraded to a diploma in nursing.
The Malaysian Ministry of Education promotes the nursing school to college status. The Tun Tan Cheng Lock College of Nursing receives registration from the Higher Education Ministry as a private higher education institution.
Living in the spirit of education, empowerment and skill enhancement, the college starts its short course in clinical teaching.
The college expands its offerings with a post-basic course.
Tun Tan Cheng Lock College of Nursing continues to strive for excellence in nursing education, producing graduates with high professional standards and caring attributes, with 100% employability and successful careers both locally and internationally.
Welcome to the Tun Tan Cheng Lock College of Nursing website, also affectionately known as Assunta College of Nursing.
Our journey began in 1961, initiated by the dedicated Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM) nuns within the Assunta Hospital premises. From its modest origins, the school of nursing has blossomed into a fully-fledged college, dedicated to the comprehensive education and training of aspiring student nurses who are poised to evolve into competent professionals.
With immense pride, we continue to pass on the light and wisdom gleaned from our Founding Sisters to the next generation of student nurses. Our emphasis lies in instilling the myriad positive attributes that define exceptional nurses. The hallmark of our institution is the caring and compassionate nature inherent in our nurses, setting them apart and making a profound difference in the field of nursing.
The Tun Tan Cheng Lock College of Nursing specializes in nursing education, offering programs such as the Diploma in Nursing and various post-basic courses tailored to specific specializations. Our students benefit from practical training at our own esteemed Assunta Hospital, and our enduring history and wealth of experience have firmly established our presence in the market. Assunta College of Nursing is the benchmark for many, trusted as the premier training college for nurses.
Our graduates thrive in successful careers both locally and internationally, with some assuming pivotal roles such as Director of Nursing and General Manager in the healthcare industry. The nursing profession, despite its challenges, is consistently regarded favorably, and certification from Assunta College of Nursing continues to unlock numerous opportunities for our graduates.
I encourage you to explore our website further, delving into the details of our College, our esteemed Faculty, and, most importantly, the inspiring journeys of our dear Student Nurses as they embark on their quest for knowledge within the College
Ms Theresa Arul
Principal
Tun Tan Cheng Lock
College of Nursing
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