THE Penang government has been assisting the development of Chinese schools in the state since 2008.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state has been allocating funds to the Chinese schools all these years.
“Today, we contribute RM30,000 to the Chung Hwa Confucian School Alumni Association (CHCA).
“They are about to celebrate their 100th anniversary soon, and therefore a special allocation of RM15,000 is allocated for them to ensure their activities can be carried out smoothly.
“Another RM15,000, which comes from my Tanjong parliamentary constituency, is meant for the CHCA Benevolent and Education Fund.
“We understand that CHCA has been established for 98 years since 1924 and the members have been actively contributing to their alma mater since its establishment.
“We have also provided funds for them to purchase music equipment, computers, building painting and other related purposes,” said Chow, who is also the Tanjong MP, in his speech after witnessing the completion of the CHCA building renovation in Burmah Road today.
Chow said the state had approved the amount of funds for SMJK Chung Hwa Confucian, SJK Chung Hwa Confucian A and SJK Chung Hwa Confucian B this year.
“Since 2009, a total of RM2.66 million has been given to them for the upgrading and repairing purposes,” he said.
Penang Chung Hwa Confucian School Alumni Association (CHCA) president Datuk Goh Teng Whoo was delighted with the state’s contribution.
“On behalf of the alumni, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to us.
“We hope to see more alumni members step forward and make their contribution in the future,” he said.
Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang Lu Shiwei was happy to witness the special occasion.
“I am happy to see many of their alumni members step forward to do their part.
“We will continue to work together with the state to develop Chinese education,” he said.
CHCA honorary president Tan Sri Alex Ooi Kee Liang, who was present, also contributed RM100,000.
Also present during the event were Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (PCCC) president Datuk Seri Hong Yeam Wah, Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH) chairman Datuk Seri Khor Teng How and other distinguished guests.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Ahmad Adil Muhamad