THE state government has approved a total allocation of RM845,000 for 16 mission schools in Penang, underscoring education as a core pillar of the state’s development.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow shared this when he attended the mock cheque presentation ceremony for mission schools at Komtar today.
Chow said the contribution reflects the state’s continuous commitment to strengthening an inclusive, high-quality and competitive education ecosystem in Penang.
“In line with the Penang2030 vision and the Malaysia Madani framework, the state government remains committed to people-centred development that embraces sustainability, well-being, and social justice.
“At the heart of this vision is education, which continues to drive Penang’s growth. By investing in education today, we are shaping a future that is more prosperous, progressive, and inclusive for all in the state,” Chow said during his speech at the ceremony.
Chow also expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for the recent announcement of RM50 million allocation for Tamil national-type schools (SJKT) and for increasing the allocation for national-type Chinese primary schools (SJKC) to RM80 million, up from RM50 million last year.
“We hope that national allocations for schools will continue, enabling school boards and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to implement projects that enhance the welfare of students and educators, while providing them with upgraded facilities and a better learning environment,” he said.
Chow said that since 2009, the state government has been providing annual allocations to mission schools. He added that records show more than RM17.45 million has been channelled to mission schools in Penang from 2009 to 2025.
“This demonstrates the state government’s ongoing commitment to ensure that these schools are able to carry out upgrading work at their respective schools for a better learning and teaching environment,” he said.
From this year’s allocation, RM525,000, or 62.3 per cent, has been designated for school repairs and infrastructure upgrades.
“This includes roof and ceiling repairs, termite-damaged structure repairs, canteen maintenance, electrical work, upgrades to roofed walkways, and improvements to classrooms and science laboratories. These upgrades are essential to provide students and teachers with a safe, comfortable, and conducive learning environment.
“In line with 21st-century learning and the digitalisation agenda in education, RM285,000, nearly one-third of the total allocation, has been approved for the installation of smartboards in mission schools.
“The remaining funds have been used for other enhancements, such as installing CCTV cameras and replacing ceiling fans, to further improve the safety and comfort of the school community,” Chow said.
Chow explained that for the past two years, upon requests from schools, the state government has considered and approved allocations for needs beyond critical maintenance work, such as the installation of smartboards, MakersLabs, and other facilities.
He also expressed hope that, with the allocations provided by the state government, the Federal Government would also address other financial constraints faced by these schools.
Pictures taken at the ceremony :-
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud