Penang government will fulfil a pledge in its election manifesto to give RM60mil to government-aided primary and secondary schools over the next six years, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
“We are aware of the financial challenges faced by these schools in providing a safe place to learn.
“We affirm our commitment to improving the physical condition of the schools as stated in our manifesto.”
Chow said this in his speech during the Old Xaverians’ Association (OXA) centenary dinner which drew about 500 guests.
Chow praised OXA for establishing the Malaysia Federation of LaSallian Alumni Associations in 1976.
“This initiative has been instrumental in safeguarding and advancing the LaSallian education system in the country.
“The LaSallian Brothers aimed not just to impart academic excellence but also brotherhood and a charitable ethos.”
Chow (ninth from right) and OXA committee members with the centenary cake. (Inset) SXI band made up of OXA members posing with a lion dance troupe. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
He said OXA lived up to this ethos by contributing yearly to a wide range of good causes and also giving back to alma mater St Xavier’s Institution in Farquhar Street.
“Since OXA was established in 1924, it has been promoting the Xaverian spirit of friendship and cooperation which has transcended racial and religious boundaries.
“The association is active in promoting sports and other unity-building activities with other alumni and sporting clubs.
‘This has contributed to nation-building,” said Chow.
Also at the centenary dinner were OXA president Datuk Khoo Khay Seang and committee members, SXI brother director Brother Jason Blaikie, SXI board of governors chairman Victor Tan and dinner organising chairman Jon Saw.
During the dinner, OXA donated RM54,000 to several charities and RM36,000 to St Xavier’s schools including St Xavier’s Institution and SK St Xavier’s.
Khoo also presented RM10,000 to Chow for the Penang Disaster Aid Fund.
