TO further strengthen the national education system, the Penang government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, will continue to prioritise the development of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the state.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said TVET plays a vital role in producing a highly skilled and high-impact workforce to meet the needs of Penang’s growing industries.
“TVET is no longer a secondary pathway but has now become the mainstream of the nation’s future education.
“Through digital education and the strengthening of TVET, we are not only nurturing students who can adapt to the evolving world of work, but also building future-ready talents who can think critically, act with empathy, and contribute meaningfully to collective well-being,” Chow said in his speech during the 209th Speech and Prize-Giving Day of Penang Free School (PFS) at Green Lane in George Town this morning.
Also present were PFS principal Syed Sultan Shaik Oothuman, The Old Frees’ Association president Alex Tan Hee Aik and Penolong Pegawai Pendidikan Daerah Timur Laut Yang Berusaha Encik Syahrul Bin Ghazali.
Chow said the state government is actively implementing various initiatives under the Penang2030 vision, particularly in strengthening the education and TVET ecosystem.
“This includes expanding access to smart learning technologies and nurturing a culture of lifelong learning.
“All these efforts are aimed at positioning Penang as a state with a highly knowledgeable workforce and a society that values continuous learning,” he added.
Chow also paid tribute to Penang Free School, the oldest school in Malaysia, for its long-standing contribution to the nation’s intellectual and leadership landscape.
“It is not merely an educational institution, but a symbol of Penang’s intellectual heritage and educational excellence.
“Education, in essence, is not just about acquiring knowledge, but it is about shaping well-rounded individuals, balanced in intellect, spirit, and emotion.
“This is the foundation of a Madani society built on respect, compassion, and integrity,” he concluded.
When asked about the influenza situation in Penang, Chow said he had been informed by the Penang Education Department that there were active cases involving school students in the state.
“Since there are reported cases, I hope this message can be conveyed to all school communities, including parents at home, to remain vigilant about the spread of influenza, especially among school children,” he said.
On Thursday (Oct 9), the Health Ministry reported 97 clusters of influenza A and B infections during Epidemiological Week 40/2025 — a sharp increase from 14 clusters the previous week. Most cases were detected in educational institutions.
According to the ministry, all states recorded an increase in influenza cases, with the highest numbers in Selangor (43 clusters), followed by Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (15), Penang (10), Johor (9), and Kedah (5). Most patients were reported to have mild symptoms.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Alissala Thian