A TOTAL of 50 tertiary students from low-income families in Penang have been selected to receive brand-new laptops, courtesy of Senator Dr R.A. Lingeshwaran, as part of his ongoing commitment to support education and reduce digital inequality.
A handover ceremony was held yesterday (May 31) at Bayview Hotel in George Town, where the first 15 recipients were presented with laptops equipped with the latest firmware and technology.
Dr Lingeshwaran said the initiative aims to assist diploma and bachelor’s degree students in their academic journey by equipping them with the technological tools they need to thrive.
“From my observation, many tertiary students from low-income families either don’t own laptops or are using outdated devices, which makes completing their coursework very difficult.
“This initiative is not only about providing a laptop. It’s about empowering our students with the essential resources to excel in their academic pursuits.
“It also forms part of our broader efforts to ease the financial burdens faced by low- and middle-income groups, especially in relation to education costs,” he said during his speech.
Dr Lingeshwaran expressed hope that the students would make the most of the opportunity and strive for academic excellence.
“I also encourage those who receive assistance today to one day give back to the community. By doing so, we can continue to uplift others from underprivileged backgrounds and create a more inclusive and compassionate society,” he added.
Also present at the event were Bagan Dalam assemblyman Kumaran Krishnan and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) councillor Linggeswaran Charmar.
Kumaran praised Dr Lingeshwaran’s initiative, describing it as a noble effort that would have a meaningful impact on the students’ lives.
He also urged the recipients to make good use of the laptops for their studies.
Among the recipients was Nur Fatihah Johari, a Bachelor of Information Technology student at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), who expressed her gratitude for the timely support.
“This laptop will definitely help me with my studies. I no longer have to borrow my friend’s laptop or go to the library just to use a computer.
“I can now easily install the software I need for my coding assignments and other coursework,” said Nur Fatihah, who aspires to become a web developer.
For Divyashiny Amuthan, a third-year medical student at AIMST University, the laptop is a much-needed tool for attending online classes and managing her academic workload.
“I’m very thankful for this support. Once I succeed in life, I also want to give back and help others in need,” she said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat