IN an effort to provide free academic guidance for children from the B40 group, the Penang Sustainable Education Development Organisation (Penang SEED) will organise a charity walk on June 14, 2026, at SEGi College Penang in George Town.
Penang SEED president Inna Lee Yin Nah said the organisation aims to raise RM100,000 through the event, known as Jalan Amal Penang SEED 2026, to support underprivileged students.
Speaking at a press conference held at SEGi College Penang today, Lee said Penang SEED would continue to provide free academic guidance and soft skills training to disadvantaged students through its Academic Mentor Programme (AMeP).
She expressed her appreciation to every partner, sponsor and community supporter for helping to sustain continuous learning pathways for 320 students.
“We share a common vision — to sow hope through education and to unite communities through action. You are not merely supporters, but indispensable partners in this meaningful educational journey.
“We are fully aware that education is not merely the transmission of knowledge, but a key that unlocks a more prosperous life,” said Lee, who co-founded Penang SEED with secretary Chew Chee Tatt.
Lee added that the funds raised would enable AMeP not only to continue supporting the existing 320 students, but also to expand the programme to Seberang Perai. She noted that AMeP differs from conventional tuition classes by placing strong emphasis on the development of soft skills through interactive presentations and engaging activities.
With the collaboration of partners like the Department of National Unity and Integration (Penang), Foundation for Cultural and Education of Nezha, Seikhlas Jiwa Chinese Welfare Association of Penang, SEGi College, JCI Penang, MPKK Pykett Avenue/Northam Road, SJKC Hun Bin and SJKC Kwang Hwa, Lee is confident that the initiative will continue to benefit many more students in need.
“This is not merely an event, but a concrete act of solidarity — bringing together people of different races and beliefs to walk side by side, to support one another with every step, and to witness hope in every drop of sweat,” she said, adding that the theme of the walk is ‘Education as the Foundation of Unity.’
Penang SEED also launched a charitable initiative known as Leaping 365, which invites members of the public to contribute through the simple concept of “one ringgit a day, RM365 a year”.
“With just RM365 a year, you can enable an underprivileged student to receive free academic tutoring and soft skills training,” Lee added.
Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, who was also present, commended Penang SEED, its strategic partners and sponsors for their collaboration in bringing positive change to the community.
She said education plays a crucial role in cultivating mutual respect, understanding and tolerance, allowing differences to be celebrated as a shared source of richness.
“This is a truly noble effort with a significant impact, not only on the nation but also on the lives of those in need.
“To everyone present, let us seize this opportunity to invite more friends and sponsors to join hands in empowering education and strengthening unity in Penang,” she said.
SEGi College Penang principal Dr Leong Mi-Chelle said the charity walk was designed as an inclusive platform for all, especially young people, to experience unity through a simple yet powerful act — walking together.
“Regardless of background, race or belief, participants will share the same path, reinforcing the values of mutual respect, understanding and compassion. These are the values that form the backbone of a harmonious Malaysian society,” she said.
Dr Leong added that SEGi College Penang firmly believes education is the greatest equaliser — a powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty and create sustainable social mobility.
She noted that the charity walk aligns with SEGi College Penang’s flagship outreach programme, Sentuhan Kasih (Touch of Compassion), which supports students from B40 and rural communities who have the potential to succeed but lack the means to pursue higher education.
Calling on all Penangites, including students, educators, corporate partners, community organisations and members of the public, to participate in Jalan Amal Penang SEED 2026, Dr Leong said collective action could make a meaningful difference.
“Let us take these steps together, not only for health and well-being, but for unity, hope and a better future for our next generation,” she said.
Also present at the press conference were Penang Island Municipal Council councillor Ooi Mei Mei, Department of National Unity and Integration (Penang) deputy director Zulkhairi Zainal, Seikhlas Jiwa Chinese Welfare Association of Penang president Anson Cheah Chin Aik, Foundation for Cultural and Education of Nezha deputy-president Mandy Chan, 2026 Local President (JCI Penang) Tan Khim Siang, SJKC Hun Bin principal Cheryl Tey Kwee Chin and SJKC Kwang Hwa principal Leong Sook Luan.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi