THE Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH) remains steadfast in its mission to serve the community and deliver tangible benefits to the people of Penang.
Speaking at PCTH’s annual Chinese New Year open house today, PCTH chairman Tan Sri Dr Tan Khoon Hai reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to enhancing its services and supporting initiatives that contribute to the well-being of society.
“Over the years, PCTH has actively engaged in community development, focusing on education, culture, and social welfare.
“Through various programmes and initiatives, we have fostered social harmony while strengthening intercultural relationships.
“One of PCTH’s key initiatives is the ‘smartboard project’, which aims to modernise classrooms and enhance digital learning experiences.
“In 2024 alone, we contributed 56 smartboards worth RM900,000 to various schools across the state. Looking ahead, we are set to donate another 100 smartboards, valued at RM1.6 million, in February this year,” Dr Tan announced.
He explained that this initiative is a collaboration with Yayasan Amal Tuan Yang Terutama Yang di-Pertua Negeri Pulau Pinang (Yayasan Amal TYT) and will benefit schools of various streams.
“We hope this initiative will inspire students to develop a deeper interest in learning while laying a strong foundation for the future of education,” said Dr Tan.
Dr Tan also expressed optimism for the year ahead, emphasising PCTH’s continued commitment to growth, progress, and meaningful contributions to the community.
PCTH’s annual Chinese New Year open house was graced by the presence of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
In his speech, Chow praised PCTH’s smartboard project, highlighting its significance in driving educational advancement.
“The Penang Chinese Town Hall has long been regarded as the highest Chinese institution in Penang, playing a crucial role in the state’s political, economic, cultural, and educational spheres,” he said.
He also lauded PCTH’s collaboration with the Penang government as a model for how non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the government can work hand in hand to uplift society.
“Such initiatives deserve high praise, as they demonstrate a strong commitment to social responsibility — not only as a corporate entity but also as an organisation that is sensitive to the needs of the people.
“PCTH continues to play a key role in promoting harmony among Penang’s diverse communities,” he said.
Chow also further acknowledged PCTH’s contributions through various community programmes, including educational initiatives, welfare assistance, healthcare services, social and cultural events.
“These efforts benefit not only the Chinese community but all Penangites, regardless of background,” he added.
Chow also expressed hope for a year filled with prosperity, blessings, and harmony, emphasising that a strong spirit of unity will propel Penang’s economic growth and ensure a brighter future for the state.
Also present were Chinese consul-general in Penang Zhou Youbin, Human Resources Minister and Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim Chee Keong, Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, who is also the Tanjong MP, Penang Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, Deputy Chief Minister I Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, PCTH honorary advisers Tan Sri Lim Gait Tong and Datuk Seri Khor Teng How.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud