SJKC Kong Min Cawangan Satu officially launched its Readtopia Zone at the school premises in Air Itam today to cultivate a stronger reading culture among its pupils.
Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, who officiated the launch, described the initiative as a meaningful effort to instil a lifelong love of reading and learning.
“In today’s rapidly changing world, driven by technology and artificial intelligence, those who read widely are often more creative. This project will inspire pupils to read, explore and grow,” Ng said during the launch ceremony.
Quoting the well-known saying, “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader,” Ng expressed hope that the initiative would inspire more schools to promote reading among their students.
He also thanked the school’s Board of Governors, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), alumni, teachers and RGB International Bhd for their commitment and support in making the project a reality.
Ng added that support from the corporate sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) has been instrumental in providing smart boards to 12 schools in Air Itam, including SJKC Kong Min Cawangan Satu.
School headmaster Tea Wan Fair expressed his appreciation to RGB International Bhd for transforming the school’s waiting area into the Readtopia Zone at a cost of approximately RM120,000. The company also donated five tablets and more than 300 books.
He said the reading space is designed to allow pupils to enjoy reading before and after school.
“For example, while waiting for their parents to pick them up after school, pupils can make good use of the space by reading. We hope to nurture a reading culture and inspire them to broaden their knowledge,” he said.
Board of Governors chairman Datuk Dr Lim Beng Suat encouraged pupils to set aside time each day to read.
Using the slogan, “Give a Book, Open a World,” Lim said the Readtopia Zone would inspire pupils to pursue their dreams of becoming scientists, doctors, entrepreneurs and professionals in other fields.
“Reading is not just about preparing for examinations. It develops critical thinking, sparks creativity and encourages lifelong learning. We hope this initiative will help our pupils build a brighter future,” she said.
The event concluded with a performance by the school’s choir.
Also present were Northeast District Education officer Baharuddin Hashim, Readtopia representative Chuah Hui Jing, PTA chairman Khor Chin Hong, Alumni chairman Datuk Chong Soon Keong and Penang Education Department representative Nor Mazrah Baharun.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siew Chia En