This posed a challenge for Muslims who wanted to provide their children with a modern education but were wary of exposing them to religious conversion.

[2] This appeal led to the formation of the Colombo Muslim Educational Society, with I. L. M. Abdul Aziz as the first secretary and Arasi Marikar Wapchie Marikar as the first treasurer and headmaster, assisted by Ahamed Orabi Pasha, an Egyptian exile in Ceylon.

[citation needed] Notable former principals of the college include Tuan Burhanudeen Jayah (1921-1947), A. M. A. Azeez (1948-1961), and R. I. T. Alles (1983-1985).

[citation needed] The project to build a college swimming pool was proposed and funded by the Old Boys Association.

[6][7] It was initiated in 2010 and completed on 14 July 2012, opening for students, alumni, and the public (after school hours).