THIS year, the Penang government has allocated RM3.717 million to assist various schools, including missionary schools, vernacular secondary schools (SMJK), and Chinese secondary private schools, as a gesture of its continued commitment to them.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced that from the amount, RM707,000 is for 15 mission schools, RM1.010 million for 10 SMJKs, and RM2 million for five Chinese secondary private schools.
“On top of this, we have also received good news from the Transport Minister (Loke Siew Fook), that a total allocation of RM18.9 million will be channelled to 63 Chinese secondary private schools in the country this year.
“With the additional financial support to be received by Chinese secondary private schools from the Federal government, it is hoped that this will further enhance the quality of education in these schools.
“We hope that the Federal government will also consider providing additional financial support for vernacular secondary schools (SMJKs) and missionary schools, as they play a pivotal role in molding a knowledgeable and responsible younger generation,” Chow said during his speech at the mock cheque presentation held at Komtar today.
Chow also highlighted the state government’s various efforts in developing human capital in the state such as the allocation of RM60 million for the primary and secondary government-aided schools in Penang over the next six years, until the year 2030.
The initiatives encompass scholarships and financial assistance for higher learning students, free tuition classes for 1,500 students annually, particularly for those from low-income families, and the provision of laptops for deserving students entering higher learning institutions.
Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo and fellow state executive councillors Wong Hon Wai, Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, Lim Siew Khim and Daniel Gooi, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, Batu Lancang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong, and schools’ representatives.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Alissala Thian