GEORGE TOWN: Diversity remains Penang’s cornerstone of unity, turning societal differences into shared economic and educational progress for all communities, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
In his Deepavali message, Chow said that beyond commemorating the symbolic triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, the festival served as a timely reminder of the need to build a prosperous, harmonious and mutually respectful society.
“In Penang, our diversity of race, religion, language and culture is the very strength that unites us.
“Differences are not a reason to drift apart but an opportunity to complement one another and build a shared future through education, economic development and well-being accessible to every segment of society,” he said.
Underscoring education as an indispensable pillar for the younger generation, Chow highlighted the state government’s ongoing investments to strengthen Tamil vernacular education, digital competency and exposure to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
In April this year, the Penang government channelled RM2.42 million towards educational development in Tamil schools across the state.
Of this amount, RM1.34 million was allocated through the Penang Education Council (PEC) to upgrade digital infrastructure and STEM capabilities.
A further RM768,901 was disbursed to 28 SJKT through their Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) for routine maintenance and facility upgrades, while RM194,400 went to 11 kindergartens located within SJKTs to support early childhood education.
Chow said academic advancement must be complemented by grassroots cultural preservation, praising community-led programmes such as the free Tamil classes organised by the Lebuh Pasar Village Community Management Council.
Addressing structural concerns, Chow reaffirmed the state’s commitment to helping all 28 SJKTs in Penang secure permanent land titles.
As of June 2026, land plots had been secured for five schools, with five more targeted over the next two to three years.
The state has also provided a 2.368-acre site to facilitate the relocation of SJKT Rajaji in Air Itam.
Looking ahead under the 2027 Madani Budget framework, Chow said Penang would deepen cooperation with federal agencies, civil society and the private sector to widen socio-economic opportunities.
This includes leveraging platforms such as Tekun Nasional, Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) and the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (Mitra) to support Indian micro-entrepreneurs and youth.
“True progress is development that creates opportunities, enhances well-being and ensures every community shares equitably in Penang’s prosperity,” Chow added, wishing all celebrants a joyous and meaningful Deepavali.