PENANG continues to strengthen its commitment to nurturing talent and empowering future generations through education, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this during the Padang Kota constituency Excellent Student Award ceremony, where 185 outstanding students were honoured for their academic excellence.
“Congratulations to all 185 award recipients!
“This recognition reflects your dedication and hard work,” Chow said, expressing his pride in the students’ achievements.
As a token of appreciation and encouragement, the Penang government has presented certificates of commendation, medals of excellence and financial incentives to the award recipients, starting from RM100 for outstanding primary students, RM150 for lower secondary, RM300 for SPM achievers, and RM500 for STPM top scorers.
“I hope this contribution serves as motivation for our students to continue striving for greater success.
“This achievement is not only an academic milestone but also a vital step towards shaping quality human capital for the state and the nation,” he added.
Chow also paid tribute to the parents, acknowledging their unwavering support and sacrifices behind every student’s success.
“Behind every successful child stand parents who never tire in their love, encouragement, and sacrifices.
“Your guidance is invaluable, and today’s success is not just your children’s, but also the success of families and our community as a whole,” he said.
Chow reaffirmed the state’s continued focus on enhancing the education ecosystem, especially in advancing STEM learning opportunities.
Among the state’s key initiatives is the establishment of MakerLabs across schools in Penang, innovation spaces where students can explore technology, foster creativity, and develop problem-solving skills using tools such as robotics, 3D printers, embedded systems and interactive learning software.
“As of 2024, a total of 129 schools across Penang, comprising 92 primary and 37 secondary schools, have been equipped with MakerLabs,” Chow noted.
Each MakerLab costs approximately RM60,000, with the initiative driven through collaboration between the Penang Science Cluster (PSC), the state government and the Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBGs).
“Penang is proud to be recognised as the state with the highest number of MakerLabs in Malaysia,” Chow said.
He further highlighted another milestone, where Penang became the first state in Malaysia to equip all 396 schools with smartboards, achieving 100 per cent digital learning access.
“This milestone underscores our determination to build an inclusive and comprehensive digital education ecosystem,” Chow emphasised.
Chow also pointed out that the launch of the Penang STEM Talent Blueprint reflects the state’s strong commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce aligned with current industry needs.
This effort not only opens doors to high-value job opportunities but also strengthens Penang’s industrial competitiveness and attracts more quality investments in line with the vision of Penang2030,” he said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat