THE Penang government has pledged a contribution of RM500,000 to Chung Ling High School (CLHS) for the construction of a RM22 million multipurpose building behind the existing main building in Jalan Air Itam.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the allocation at the groundbreaking ceremony today as the state government has always been concerned about the development of education in the state.
“The state government believes that education is the foundation of the nation and that talents are the most important asset of Penang,” Chow said in his speech after taking part in the groundbreaking ceremony.
“Beginning in 2008, the state government was the first to systematically allocate funds to various primary and secondary schools in Penang, which has largely eased the financial difficulties of these schools.
“Chung Ling is one of the few schools in the state that has a high percentage of 90% of science students.
“It can be seen that the school attaches great importance to mathematics and science education and spares no effort in promoting STEM education.
“Some of its students have also won international scientific research awards, including the invention of a cinnamon insecticide last year. Two Chung Ling students even have an asteroid named after them following their success in the Chemistry category in an international science fair.
“I hope that other schools will also follow Chung Ling and groom more internationally competitive mathematics and science professionals for the state government.”
Chow also expressed his wish that the project would be successfully completed as the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted everyone’s daily routines to some extent.
Chow added that the government has also spent RM3.24 million to set up makerlabs in 89 schools in Penang to provide students with opportunities to access and experience high technology.
Joining Chow at the groundbreaking ceremony were Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng, Bukit Bendera MP Wong Hon Wai, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng and CLHS board of directors chairman Datuk Seri Koay Hean Eng.
The school band also performed at the groundbreaking ceremony to enliven the event which was attended by the school board vice-chairman Datuk Siah Kok Poay and other board directors, school principal Soo Seng Poh, teachers, students and invited guests.
Some old buildings were demolished to make way for the new five-storey building, which is expected to be fully constructed by August next year.
The building will consist of a school hall, an auditorium, activity rooms, a science lab, a library and a canteen.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alvin Cheng
Video by Alissala Thian