PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim made a generous contribution of RM20.16 million to 63 independent Chinese high schools across Malaysia, with each receiving RM320,000, and an additional RM1 million to Sekolah Menengah Persendirian Jit Sin (Jit Sin Independent High School) in Bukit Mertajam.
Anwar made the announcement during his speech at the school hall after officiating the groundbreaking ceremony for the Mutiara LRT Line in Sungai Pinang, George Town, earlier today.
The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to Jit Sin for the invaluable lessons he learned during his time teaching Bahasa Malaysia at the school for about one year before embarking on his tertiary education at Universiti Malaya.
Reflecting on his Penang roots, Anwar acknowledged that some might accuse him of favouritism for approving the LRT project in Penang and of being overly supportive of the Chinese community for the educational aid to Chinese independent schools. He urged narrow-minded politicians and leaders to adopt a forward-thinking approach that would contribute to the nation’s progress.
“It’s nostalgic and sentimental to be here today,” Anwar said, recalling the meaning behind Jit Sin’s school anthem, which celebrates spirit, unity, creativity, and humanity. Before his speech, he requested the students to sing the school anthem in Mandarin and joined them in the performance.
While emphasising the importance of producing well-rounded students, Anwar spoke of the Madani concept, which stresses good character development.
He remarked on how education fosters intellectual skills, such as in engineering and biotechnology, but also underscored the need for moral integrity. He highlighted a shift in societal values, saying, “We’re taught not to steal. It’s fundamental. In the past, if students were caught stealing a pencil, they were punished with caning. But today, stealing billions can turn you into a hero. Where are the morals?
“When I take action against corrupt individuals, some claim that Anwar is engaging in revenge politics and has forgotten the kindness of others,” he said.
He said as he was appointed prime minister, he has to carry out his duty responsibly
Anwar recounted his own childhood experience of stealing coconuts from a Chinese owner and how his grandmother taught him a valuable lesson in honesty and integrity. “Do not steal other people’s property – whether for Chinese to steal from Malay, or Malay to steal from Chinese,” he said.
Anwar also stressed the need for a high-quality education system to equip the young with the necessary knowledge to face future challenges. While affirming that the national education system must uphold Bahasa Malaysia as the national language, he emphasised that knowing Chinese and English languages would provide individuals with greater opportunities, especially in engaging with China, an economic powerhouse.
Reflecting on his own experiences, he said, “When I was teaching in Jit Sin, 99 per cent of the school comprised Chinese students and teachers. But as a Muslim, I do not lose my faith in Islam. The Chinese students I taught are my anak kasihi (beloved children). We respect each other.” Anwar humorously added that at functions, he now “yam sengs” (toasts) with orange juice.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke described the Mutiara LRT project as a significant “ang-pow” for Penang, highlighting its potential to connect the island to Penang Sentral in Seberang Perai. This, he said, would benefit the northern region as a whole.
Loke further emphasised the meaningfulness of Anwar’s visit to Jit Sin Independent High School, noting that Malaysia’s diverse population – comprising different races and religions – is a national asset.
“We must remain united for the country’s economy to grow,” Loke said, stressing the importance of unity in diversity.
Jit Sin Independent High School’s acting principal, Tang Eng Hoe, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Federal government for its ongoing commitment to Chinese private secondary schools, as well as to the state government. He acknowledged the roles played by former Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and current Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow in developing private schools and education in Penang.
Tang also thanked Anwar for his past role as a teacher in the 1960s, noting how his educational philosophy continues to inspire Malaysians, particularly through the Malaysia Madani concept. This concept, Tang explained, promotes core values such as Sustainability, Well-being, Creativity, Respect, Confidence, and Compassion – principles that are essential to fostering a prosperous and harmonious nation.
Founded in 1918, Jit Sin Independent High School has a proud 107-year history. Currently, the school serves 2,250 students, supported by 135 teachers and 36 staff members.
Tang highlighted the school’s reputation for excellence, its commitment to a holistic approach to education, and its status as a top choice for students. Despite affordable tuition fees, the school faces significant expenditures, but it has managed to thrive thanks to the unwavering support of the local community and assistance from the federal and state governments.
The event was also attended by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Human Resources Minister and Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Minister Chang Lih Kang, Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, State Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, several state executive councillors, assemblymen, and representatives from various organisations.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siew Chia En
