THE Penang government has announced a RM100,000 allocation for one of the state’s oldest schools, SMK Methodist Boys School (MBS) in Datok Keramat, to support the construction of a new two-storey academic building.
The announcement was made by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow today when he officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the new building and the opening of the school’s new digital library, sponsored by Greatech Berhad.
School Management Board chairman Dr Khoo Cheok Kau expressed his appreciation to Chow for the contribution.
He said the estimated cost of constructing the new building is about RM2.4 million.
“As of today, about RM1.76 million has been raised from donors.
“The school has also planned various fundraising initiatives this year, including a charity walk and a school anniversary dinner.
“MBS also appeals to former students, the private sector and good Samaritans to contribute towards this project,” Dr Khoo said in his speech.
Dr Khoo added that the new academic building will comprise two floors with eight classrooms.
“The building will also be equipped with laboratories and specialised classrooms for various Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes.
“This includes electrical and electronics (E&E) programmes aligned with the needs of the semiconductor industry, a Makers Lab, artificial intelligence (AI) programmes, robotics programmes and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programmes.
“These initiatives will provide a platform for vocationally inclined students to pursue TVET pathways.
“The groundbreaking of this new building and the opening of the new digital library reflect our aspiration to provide future-ready education that is both relevant and practical,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chow said that under the Penang Digital Economy Master Plan (DEMP), the state government is steering Penang towards becoming an “AI Nation” or “AI state”.
“This new building will therefore be equipped with training facilities aligned with the needs of high-tech industries in Batu Kawan and Bayan Lepas.
“Students will be exposed to automation, robotics and digital integration, ensuring they are highly sought after in the job market upon graduation.
“In line with technological progress, we are also launching the school’s new digital library. This is no longer a traditional library that only houses physical books, but rather a digital innovation hub.
“With smart devices, smart boards and high-speed data access, the library will serve as a centre for AI and data literacy.
“This is where students can sharpen their critical thinking and creativity. The presence of such facilities ensures that no student is left behind in the wave of digitalisation, in line with the principle of inclusivity under Malaysia Madani,” Chow said.
Chow also urged students to make full and responsible use of the facilities to explore emerging fields such as AI and advanced engineering.
He added that the state government appreciates the support of industry partners and donors, describing their collaboration and contributions as one of the most sustainable investments in ensuring that Penang remains a centre of industrial excellence in the region.
Also present were MBS principal Sri Ram Bilangwaty, Methodist Church in Malaysia bishop Rev Dr T. Jeyakumar, Methodist Council of Education director Lim Kah Cheng and Greatech Berhad chief financial officer Koay Lin Lin.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud