Pupils of SJK(C) Yok Eng in Muar, Johor happily showing off the storybooks that they received from STM Lottery Sdn Bhd.
STM Lottery Sdn Bhd has announced the commencement of the 2023 edition of its Sports Toto “Reading My Companion” programme.
This initiative aims to spread the joy of reading to 2,515 pupils from 20 micro-sized Chinese primary schools in the rural areas of Penang, Perak, Pahang and Johor.
The company understands the vital role that education plays in building a sustainable future and is delighted to contribute through this corporate social responsibility initiative.
“Our reading programme is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable education efforts,” said STM Lottery communications and sustainability deputy general manager Giam Say Khoon in a statement.
“By promoting reading as a favourite pastime and igniting a passion for reading, we believe we can inspire pupils to excel academically and unlock their full potential.”
Beginning July 16, STM Lottery staff volunteers have been visiting 20 participating schools to present pupils with carefully selected storybooks and donating interesting storybooks to the libraries of each participating school.
Storytelling sessions will be carried out at schools to encourage pupils to read in an interactive manner.
The participating schools will play an integral role in cultivating a reading community among their pupils by promoting book exchanges, urging kids to share stories in class and express their thoughts and reflections in personal journals.
This collaborative approach not only enhances the joy of reading but also encourages the development of critical thinking and self-expression skills.
In recognition of pupils’ enthusiasm and dedication, the company arranged tokens of commendation for two pupils from each participating school.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to make a difference in the lives of young learners,” said Giam.
“By bringing the storybooks to these deserving pupils, the reading programme will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark, empowering them with the tools and inspiration to unlimited possibilities.”
Initiated by STM Lottery in 2012, the programme has so far benefited over 17,500 pupits in 163 sub-urban schools in Penang, Perak, Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Pahang and Johor.
