A TOTAL of 16 primary and secondary schools in the Air Itam constituency received 34 air coolers today, thanks to the Bukit Gelugor parliamentary constituency office.
The handover ceremony took place at SRJK(C) Chiao Nan and was attended by Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, alongside Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh representative Evon Tan and North East District Education Officer Mohamad Zawawi Ahmad.
Air Itam, which falls under the Bukit Gelugor parliamentary constituency, is home to a significant number of schools.
Recognising the need to enhance the learning environment, Ng highlighted that the contribution, valued at RM56,000, was made possible through discussions with Ramkarpal.
“Each air cooler costs approximately RM1,600. Thus, I would like to express my gratitude to YB Ramkarpal Singh for this generous allocation.
“Schools are vital in disseminating knowledge, and their environment plays a significant role in facilitating learning.
“Air Itam is one of the constituencies in the state with many schools. However, it is challenging to address all their needs using only the state constituency allocation.
“After discussions with YB Ramkarpal, I am pleased that he agreed to sponsor these 34 air coolers. This contribution is particularly important as many schools here do not have indoor multipurpose halls to shelter students from the heat,” Ng said.
Mohamad Zawawi welcomed the contribution, emphasising its importance in providing comfort to students, especially during the current hot weather.
“This is a much-needed initiative for the comfort of students during programs, examinations, or lessons. On behalf of the North East District Education Office, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to YB Ng and YB Ramkarpal for their assistance,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting