UNIVERSITY students from underprivileged families in Padang Kota now have a timely opportunity to ease their academic journey, thanks to a meaningful act of generosity.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who is also the Padang Kota assemblyman, has announced that 20 laptops are being offered free of charge to eligible students in the constituency, a contribution made possible by a kind-hearted donor committed to supporting education.
Describing the initiative as a reflection of genuine community spirit, Chow shared that the laptops were personally donated by Johnny Chong Wee Beng, as part of his corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.
“This generous contribution will directly benefit B40 university students residing in Padang Kota, helping them stay connected and better equipped for their studies,” he said during the laptop handover ceremony in Komtar today.
Also present were Padang Kota state constituency service centre director Ewe Chee Way, Chow’s political secretary Lau Keng Ee and Chong.
With demand expected to be high, priority will be given to students from B40 households. Applicants must also meet at least one of the following criteria, which is either that their parent is a registered voter in Padang Kota, or they themselves are registered voters in the constituency.
Eligible students are encouraged to submit their applications at the Padang Kota state constituency service centre on Arratoon Road.
Required documents include a university academic transcript along with other supporting materials. All submissions will be carefully reviewed, and successful applicants will be notified accordingly.
For further enquiries, students may contact the service centre at 04-2260218 during office hours.
Chow also took the opportunity to express his sincere appreciation to Chong for stepping forward to support students in need.
“This thoughtful gesture will go a long way in assisting our youth in pursuing their education. We are truly grateful for Mr Chong’s generosity,” he said.
The initiative, valued at RM44,000, underscores the importance of collaboration between the community and the private sector in uplifting those in need.
Chong, who is the executive director of Sunwish Equity Sdn Bhd, hinted that this may just be the beginning.
“If there is further demand, I am open to extending similar contributions to other constituencies as well,” he said, offering hope that more students across Penang could soon benefit from similar support.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Alissala Thian