Reconsider donate and build initiative, says Lee
Penang and Seberang Perai Dong Lian Hui chairman, Lee Tian Lin urged the Education Ministry to review the “Donate and Build” initiative.
Penang and Seberang Perai Dong Lian Hui, is a organisation for Chinese schools committees in Penang and Seberang Perai.
He said that building schools is a fundamental duty of the government.
“We welcome all members of society, including corporations, institutions, and non-governmental organizations, to fulfil their social responsibilities in building schools.
“However, the establishment of schools is also a fundamental duty of the government and should not be solely left to private entities under a policy framework for building Chinese primary schools,” he said.
He said the education ministry should treat all types of schools equally and take responsibility for establishing and relocating schools.
He said this during the Penang and Seberang Perai Dong Lian Hui’s 45th Board of Directors swearing-in ceremony.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow hopes that the Penang and Seberang Perai Dong Lian Hui can continue to unite various parties, to advance the development of Chinese education.
He emphasized the importance of passing on the torch, injecting new blood, nurturing successors, and ensuring the sustainable development of Chinese education.
“The contributions made by the Penang and Seberang Perai Dong Lian Hui to Chinese education over the decades are undeniable.
“Both past and recent boards of directors have shouldered responsibilities, dedicating themselves to consolidating the strength of Penang Chinese school boards, advocating for and safeguarding the interests of Chinese education, and staunchly opposing policies detrimental to Chinese education,” Chow said.
He mentioned that the Penang and Seberang Perai Dong Lian Hui have been established for 72 years and currently have 107 members, including 90 Chinese primary schools, 12 national-type secondary schools, and 5 Chinese independent schools.
“In addition, the association closely collaborates with the Dong Zong, to promote Chinese education nationwide. It stands at the forefront of promoting the development of mother tongue education and making fearless and selfless efforts for the survival and development of national education and culture,” he said.
“Education has always been one of the state government’s key focus areas. Within our capabilities, we fully support and cooperate with the development of Chinese education, including providing funding support for activities organized by the Penang and Seberang Perai Dong Lian Hui to alleviate their burden and facilitate more Chinese education activities.”
He stressed that the development of Chinese education requires joint efforts from the government, Chinese organizations, Chinese education organizations, and individuals passionate about Chinese education.
Therefore, he hopes that all groups will continue to support various Chinese education initiatives, unite as one, and strive for the future development of Chinese education.
The “Donate and Build Initiative” initiated by the education ministry offers opportunities for agencies, foundations, non-governmental organizations, corporate companies, and developers to fulfil their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by contributing to Malaysian education.