The Penang government has allocated RM2.42 million to support Tamil schools, preschools, and community education centres in the state this year.
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government has allocated RM2.42 million this year to the Penang Tamil Schools Special Committee to strengthen education and support the development of the younger generation.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said RM768,901 of the total allocation would be channelled to 28 Tamil National-Type Schools (SJKT) through their Parent-Teacher Associations to maintain conducive learning facilities.
He said RM194,400 would go to 11 SJKT preschools to support early childhood education, while RM1,336,699 would be allocated to the Penang Education Council to enhance digital infrastructure and STEM skills.
“Another RM120,000 will be distributed to three Punjabi Education Centres, with RM40,000 each, and RM30,000 to the Telugu Association, reflecting the state’s commitment to inclusive education,” he said at a contribution presentation ceremony.
Chow also reaffirmed the state’s continued commitment to advocating for the establishment of Malaysia’s first Tamil secondary school as part of efforts to expand educational access.
The state is currently monitoring the construction of new buildings for SJKT Rajaji here and SJKT Ladang Byram in Nibong Tebal.
Penang Tamil Schools Special Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo said part of the allocation would fund several new initiatives, including the provision of free desks and chairs for all SJKTs.
He said the committee also aims to provide prayer rooms in all 28 SJKTs in Penang this year, with four schools having already implemented the initiative to cater to religious practices.
Other new programmes include stress management camps for headmasters and senior assistants, alongside the implementation of Bahasa Malaysia camps to strengthen proficiency in the national language.
“In addition, we are focusing on organising the Penang Tamil Schools Annual Sports to promote a healthy lifestyle and sportsmanship among pupils,” Sundarajoo added.
