Story by Chan Lilian
GEMS International School of Pearl City, Penang officially opened its first world-class international school on Penang’s mainland, marking its first educational investment in Malaysia.
The opening of the RM55 million GEMS International school located on 8.03acres of land was officiated by Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng on Sept 28.
Dino Varkey, group executive director of GEMS International School Malaysia and Tom Collin, CEO of GEMS International School Malaysia welcomed the dignitaries and Penang state leaders to the event.
“We are indeed honored GEMS Education has chosen the state for their first educational investment in Malaysia. While the island is home to several such institutions, the location of GEMS Pearl City means we now have an added advantage when driving investments and investors to consider Seberang Prai and Batu Kawan as a choice destination to invest, work, live and learn, especially if they have school-going children,” Lim said in his speech.
“To win the future, you must invest in the future, especially the young. The Penang government staunchly believes that investing in education means investing in the future,” he added.
Lim said education is the single most important driving force for peaceful, equitable and prosperous development.
“Education encourages us to think freely and acquire knowledge. It is an important catalyst for creativity, innovation and economic progress. Penang is a sterling example of how well freedom works to allow us not only a degree of economic prosperity but also enhances human dignity by giving everyone the equal opportunity to be the best you want to be,” he added.
“GEMS Pearl City’s hybrid of international and Malaysian curriculum means local students will be imbued with their Malaysian heritage and at the same time garner an international outlook.”