PENANG’s flagship scholarship programme, the Penang Future Foundation (PFF), has awarded approximately 805 scholarships worth an estimated RM44.1 million to eligible individuals since it was launched in 2015, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced today.
Speaking at the Penang Future Foundation 10th Anniversary Dinner at The Tamarra by Irama Dining in George Town this evening, Chow said the total does not yet include new recipients from the recently concluded PFF 2025 selection interviews.
“Over the past decade, the PFF structure has been reviewed and refined repeatedly to address rising household income inequality, the changing realities of industry needs, and to manage scholar expectations,” Chow said.
He noted that one of the most significant reforms was the introduction of the Mutiara and Penang scholarship categories.
“These two tiers were introduced to ensure that those from financially challenged backgrounds are not left behind, while at the same time ensuring that high-performing students continue to be encouraged to excel academically,” he added.
Chow said he is both proud of the 10-year milestone and deeply humbled knowing that thousands of lives, scholars and families have been positively impacted by PFF.
However, he stressed that PFF’s continued impact relies heavily on sustained funding.
“We are reaching the end of our reserves. Without additional support, the PFF may no longer be able to serve as a lifeline for students even though the need is very real, and still urgent,” he said.
Chow said to date, 352 PFF scholars have completed their service bond, while another 194 are currently fulfilling their service obligations.
Chow reiterated that the service bond requirement is not limited to Penang civil service posts.
“Many PFF scholars, in fact, pursue careers in industry. Their employers range from multinational companies to local tech champions.
“This aligns with PFF’s vision to attract, nurture and retain talent across diverse sectors,” said Chow.
He then made a strong call for more industry participation.
“We appreciate the contributions made to date, but we welcome and encourage more industry players to step forward.
“Contributions to PFF are tax-exempt, subject to the issuance of receipts from the State Finance Office and the relevant tax guidelines.
“If you or your company are interested in supporting this initiative, please get in touch with the PFF Secretariat,” he said.
Chow also expressed appreciation to the PFF Secretariat for their steadfast stewardship and commitment over the years.
“We have come a long way together. With a committed Selection Committee and continued support from industry, I am confident we can bring this initiative to greater heights and extend its impact well beyond the first decade,” he concluded.
Also present were PFF Selection Committee members Datuk Seri Nazir Ariff, Datuk Daisy Ooi, Datuk Loo Lee Lian, Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Lim Koon Ong, Dr Lim Kim-Hwa and Datuk Danny Goon.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat