The Penang government has granted an additional RM100,000 to five Chinese Independent High Schools in the state, as part of its ongoing initiative to support them during this period.
In addition to the RM400,000 previously allocated, the state has disbursed another RM100,000 to the schools.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the additional funds for Chung Ling Private High School, Jit Sin Independent High School, Han Chiang High School, Penang Chinese Girls’ High School, and Phor Tay Private High School.
“We understand the need for these schools to request extra funding, and we hope this will provide some relief.
We hope their burden will be eased through this support,” he said before presenting awards to the outstanding students in the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) at Komtar today.
During the event, Chow expressed his delight at the students’ impressive academic achievements.
“Since 2019, the Penang state government has consistently awarded scholarships to outstanding UEC students.
“This year marks the 7th consecutive year of this award programme, demonstrating the state government’s continued support for Chinese education and its recognition of academic excellence,” he said.
This year, 34 students achieved excellent results in the UEC, scoring 7As or more. Among them, two students obtained 10As, four earned 9As, 12 achieved 8As, and 16 received 7As.
These outstanding students include 22 from Chung Ling Private High School, five from Jit Sin Independent High School, four from Han Chiang High School, and three from Penang Chinese Girls’ Private High School.
Among them, 33 are local students, while one is an international student.
Chow also announced RM800 cash incentive to each student, bringing the total amount to RM26,400.
He expressed his deepest respect to all parents, school board members, principals, and teachers for their dedication in nurturing the students.
“With the rapid pace of technological advancement and the global shift toward digitalisation, technology has become a part of our daily lives.
“I’ve also noticed that many children, including primary school students, are self-learning online and are proficient in using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. This is a positive reflection of our progress toward becoming a smart state and staying aligned with global developments,” he added.
Dong Zong deputy chairman Lee Thiam Lim expressed his gratitude to the state for its support of Chinese Independent High Schools.
“We hope to continue working alongside the state to elevate our education system to greater heights,” he said.
Among those present at the event were state Social Development, Non-Islamic Religious and Welfare Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, Berapit assemblyman Heng Lee Lee, and Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Alissala Thian