PENANG’s flagship scholarship programme, the Penang Future Foundation (PFF), has awarded approximately 805 scholarships worth an estimated RM44.1 million to eligible individuals since it was launched in 2015, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced today.

Speaking at the Penang Future Foundation 10th Anniversary Dinner at The Tamarra by Irama Dining in George Town this evening, Chow said the total does not yet include new recipients from the recently concluded PFF 2025 selection interviews.

Chow said the total does not yet include new recipients from the recently concluded PFF 2025 selection interviews.

“Over the past decade, the PFF structure has been reviewed and refined repeatedly to address rising household income inequality, the changing realities of industry needs, and to manage scholar expectations,” Chow said.

Chow (centre) taking a group photo with PFF Selection Committee members and stakeholders.

He noted that one of the most significant reforms was the introduction of the Mutiara and Penang scholarship categories.

Chow having a light moment with PFF Selection Committee members and stakeholders during the anniversary dinner today.

“These two tiers were introduced to ensure that those from financially challenged backgrounds are not left behind, while at the same time ensuring that high-performing students continue to be encouraged to excel academically,” he added.

Chow said he is both proud of the 10-year milestone and deeply humbled knowing that thousands of lives, scholars and families have been positively impacted by PFF.

However, he stressed that PFF’s continued impact relies heavily on sustained funding.

“We are reaching the end of our reserves. Without additional support, the PFF may no longer be able to serve as a lifeline for students even though the need is very real, and still urgent,” he said.

Chow said to date, 352 PFF scholars have completed their service bond, while another 194 are currently fulfilling their service obligations.

Chow reiterated that the service bond requirement is not limited to Penang civil service posts.

“Many PFF scholars, in fact, pursue careers in industry. Their employers range from multinational companies to local tech champions.

“This aligns with PFF’s vision to attract, nurture and retain talent across diverse sectors,” said Chow.

He then made a strong call for more industry participation.

“We appreciate the contributions made to date, but we welcome and encourage more industry players to step forward.

“Contributions to PFF are tax-exempt, subject to the issuance of receipts from the State Finance Office and the relevant tax guidelines.

“If you or your company are interested in supporting this initiative, please get in touch with the PFF Secretariat,” he said.

Chow also expressed appreciation to the PFF Secretariat for their steadfast stewardship and commitment over the years.

“We have come a long way together. With a committed Selection Committee and continued support from industry, I am confident we can bring this initiative to greater heights and extend its impact well beyond the first decade,” he concluded.

Also present were PFF Selection Committee members Datuk Seri Nazir Ariff, Datuk Daisy Ooi, Datuk Loo Lee Lian, Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Lim Koon Ong, Dr Lim Kim-Hwa and Datuk Danny Goon.

Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Source from: Buletin Mutara (https://www.buletinmutiara.com/penang-future-foundation-marks-10-years-rm44-1mil-in-scholarships-awarded/)

Chow (third from left) and Nazir (fourth from left) in a group photo with the PFF scholarship recipients (from left) Chin Qi, Muhamamad Danial, Kavinesh and Zhi Wei.

 

THE Penang government has urged industry players and the private sector to contribute to the Penang Future Foundation (PFF), as its scholarship fund is running low, with less than RM5 million remaining to support deserving undergraduate students.

 

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who also chairs the PFF, made this appeal while announcing that 54 students have been selected for the 2024 scholarship awards – 49 under the Penang Scholar category and five under the Mutiara Scholar category.

“Our funds are drying up, and we have less than RM5 million left, which may only last for about two more years.

 

“The arguments remain that the state government must do more and more to provide a bottomless talent pool. That is a tall order, but it is also a reality that such a commitment places a high financial strain on the state government’s already limited resources.

“While we intend to continue with this initiative for as long as possible, I must implore the generosity of key industry players in Penang to step forward and contribute. Their generosity will help ensure that the PFF remains a lifeline for gifted and deserving students,” Chow said during a symbolic award presentation to four scholar representatives from the 2024 cohort at Komtar today.

 

The total scholarship amount awarded for the 2024 cohort stands at RM2.7 million. Since its inception in 2015, PFF has provided scholarships to 805 students, amounting to approximately RM44.5 million.

 

Between 2015 and 2023, 751 students received PFF scholarships to pursue undergraduate degrees in diverse fields, including Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Accountancy, and Finance. In 2024, an additional 54 students have been awarded scholarships.

 

“These two distinct scholarship awards are designed to encourage the academic high-flyers to maintain a strong academic performance in the Penang Scholar category, and to help those from disadvantaged financial backgrounds under the Mutiara Scholar category,” Chow said.

 

Marking its 10th anniversary this year, the state government remains committed to sustaining the PFF initiative. Chow emphasised that as Penang charts its industrialisation journey for the next 50 years, it is even more crucial to maintain a steady pipeline of talent to meet growing industry demands.

 

“This initiative benefits both students and the industry, as scholarship recipients are required to work in Penang for two to five years after graduation, depending on the scholarship amount they received,” he explained.

 

With the presence of over 350 multinational companies (MNCs) and 6,500 small medium enterprises (SMEs) in the state, Chow is hopeful for more financial support from the industry to sustain the programme.

 

Datuk Seri Nazir Ariff, a member of the PFF Selection Committee, highlighted that more than half of the over 700 graduates who received the scholarship awards are now employed in the Free Trade Zone.

 

“I have been involved in the selection process for 10 years, interviewing students. Seeing them graduate brings us an immeasurable sense of satisfaction. Echoing Chief Minister Chow’s call, I also appeal for contributions to support deserving students, who in turn will contribute to the state’s growth,” Nazir said.

 

All the four scholarship recipients  – Kavinesh Reddy Gopalakrishnan, Muhamamad Danial Adzha Syamsul Adzha, Ng Chin Qi and Samantha Law Zhi Wei – expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the state government and donors.

Kavinesh, a first-year Data Engineering student at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Johor Baru, described the scholarship as more than just financial assistance.

 

“It is a symbol of trust, a belief in our potential, and a push for us to strive for greater heights,” he said.

 

Coming from a family of nine, with only his father as the sole breadwinner, financial struggles have always been a challenge.

 

“Despite the hardships, my parents have always emphasised the importance of education, encouraging me to work hard and pursue my dreams.

 

“Receiving this scholarship is not just a relief for me but a blessing for my entire family. It lifts a huge financial burden off our shoulders and allows me to focus entirely on my studies, grow, and give back.

 

“To the Penang Future Foundation, to our sponsors, and to everyone who made this scholarship possible – thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten,” Kavinesh said.

 

Muhamamad Danial, a second-year Accountancy student at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), shared how he took on part-time jobs during semester breaks to help ease his parents’ financial burden in raising four children.

 

He noted that the rising cost of living, coupled with studying in Selangor, had added to the strain due to expenses such as rent, food, and general living costs.

 

“With Penang’s rapid development and the influx of multinational and manufacturing companies, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals in the accounting sector. I recognise that accounting is the heart and soul of every business, and I hope to contribute to the state’s growth by applying my skills and working diligently.

 

“I strongly encourage fellow students to apply for the PFF scholarship, as it holds immense value for recipients. The scholarship not only helps deserving students complete their studies but also encourages them to give back to Penang by working here. This helps prevent brain drain while nurturing local talent to build a brighter future, mutually benefiting both the state and its scholars,” Muhamamad Danial said.

 

 

Chin Qi, a second-year Accounting student at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), shared that receiving the scholarship has allowed her parents to focus on supporting her younger sister, who is currently in secondary school, and her elder brother, who is pursuing his studies at UTAR.

 

“I really appreciate getting this scholarship. Many students out there are also working hard and hoping for this support, so I feel a strong sense of responsibility to make the most of this opportunity. It motivates me to work even harder to maintain the required academic results, ensuring that I do not take this privilege for granted.

 

“I applied for the PFF scholarship because Penang is where I want to build my future career. As someone born and raised here, I deeply appreciate the state’s rapid development and the strong presence of multinational companies (MNCs) across various industries. These opportunities make Penang an ideal environment for graduates like me to grow and thrive professionally. I hope to contribute my skills and knowledge to support Penang’s future development, particularly in the financial and corporate sectors,” Chin Qi said.

 

Zhi Wei, a third-year Computer Science student at INTI Penang, spoke about the financial struggles she faced, coming from a single-parent household with her mother working tirelessly to support the family.

 

“When I learned that I had been awarded the PFF scholarship, I felt an immense sense of relief, knowing that it would ease my mother’s financial burden.

 

“This scholarship has instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility, driving me to strive for academic excellence.

 

“As I look towards my future, I am excited about the opportunities available in Penang. The state’s thriving tech sector, with its diverse industries spanning AI, data analytics, and more, provides great prospects for Computer Science graduates like myself. I aspire to use my expertise to develop solutions that address real-world challenges and contribute to Penang’s growth and prosperity.

 

“On a personal note, this scholarship has taught me the power of perseverance and the importance of giving back. I’ve always been inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote, ‘The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.’ This scholarship has made my dream a reality, and I am committed to contributing to the community by making a meaningful impact,” Zhi Wei said.

 

Source: Buletin Mutiara

(https://www.buletinmutiara.com/penang-calls-for-industry-support-as-pff-fund-dwindles-54-students-awarded-2024-scholarships/)

PFF Bootcamp 2019 was held on 23 and 24 August 2019 at Olive Tree Hotel Penang. The main objectives for the bootcamp are:

• To align scholars on PFF’s objectives and State’s vision, plans and programs
• To develop the scholars through soft skills training eg: leadership and communication skills
• To encourage camaraderie amongst scholars and strengthen the alumni bond

Various programmes had been arranged for the scholars during this 2 Days 1 Night bootcamp in order to achieve the objectives of the event. PFF Bootcamp 2019 started with concurrent site visits to Penang-based companies i.e. Intel and Vitrox, followed by an “Emotional Intelligence” training by Leaderonomics. Bootcamp participants were also divided into 12 teams to work on Bootcamp Challenge 2019 – “Realization of Penang2030”, a project designed for them to develop a captivating public awareness campaign to promote Penang2030 vision as a family-focused green and smart state that inspires the nation to their fellow university mates.  After the elimination round, the top 4 teams were selected to present their projects during PFF Luncheon 2019 on 24 August 2019.

Site Visit to Intel

On the second day of the bootcamp, Mr. Ng Sang Beng from Aemulus Corporation Sdn Bhd was invited as a speaker to share on a topic “F for Fundamentals, Not for Fun”.

The bootcamp concluded with PFF Luncheon 2019 hosted by Chief Minister of Penang, YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow to thank PFF Selection Committee members and co-interviewers/industry leaders in making PFF a success. All scholars, PFF Selection Committee members and co-interviewers/industry leaders, PFF Secretariat and invited guests had joined PFF Luncheon which was founded as a great platform for all to establish friendship and networking opportunities. PFF Luncheon 2019’s itinerary included certificate-giving to 66 PFF Graduates, performances from PFF Scholars and networking session between industry players and PFF Scholars.

Once again, congratulations and well done to our 66 PFF Graduates:

1. Aaron Koe Zhen Yao – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Chemical Engineering, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
2. Ang See Ping – Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
3. Ang Wei Keong – Bachelor of Science (Housing, Building and Planning) (Honours) Construction Management, Universiti Sains Malaysia
4. Chan Jye Ming – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Cognitive Science, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
5. Chan Swee Mei – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Actuarial Science, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
6. Cheang Yeu Huang – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Environmental Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia
7. Cheng Z-Ker – Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
8. Chong Ka Fan – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Applied Chemistry, Universiti Malaya
9. Choo Jie Liang – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electronic Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia
10. Choong Chia How – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Mechatronics Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia
11. Fatin Nadhirah binti Abdul Aziz – Bachelor of Information Technology (Honours) Information System Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Mara
12. Fatin Nur Adilah binti Md Idris – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Geology, Universiti Malaya
13. Foo Kim Hui – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Industrial Chemistry, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
14. Foong Pooi Chee – Bachelor of Business (Honours) Accounting and Finance, Kolej Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
15. Galvin Ooi Yeow Boon – Baachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Northumbria at Newcastle
16. Gan Xu Yang – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electronic Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia
17. Hazwan bin Anuar – Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) with Honours, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
18. H’ng Yap How – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Industrial Chemistry, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
19. Husema A/P Murugiah – Bachelor of Business (Honours) Accounting and Finance, Kolej Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
20. Isamuddin bin Mohamed Iqubal – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Materials Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia
21. Kang Huay Wei – Bachelor of Finance (Honours), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
22. Khe Jia Ming – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Chemistry, Universiti Malaya
23. Khor Chia Yee – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Chemistry, Universiti Sains Malaysia
24. Khor Yee Shuan – Bachelor of Science Industrial Mathematics with Honours, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
25. Koay Hui Ling – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Biohealth Science, Universiti Malaya
26. Kok Kian Yuen – Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
27. Lee Che Keat – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Mechanical Engineering, Curtin University
28. Lee Kah Wei – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Computing Studies, University of Northumbria at Newcastle
29. Lee Yuan Jun – Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) with Honours, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
30. Liew Wei Chong – Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), AIMST University
31. Lim Wun Xin – Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
32. Lim Yong Fong – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electrical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia
33. Loh Wai Kei – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Construction Management, Universiti Sains Malaysia
34. Loh Zi Ting – Bachelor of Science (Hons) Industrial Chemistry, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
35. Loo Ri Ying – Bachelor of Technology (Honours) Food, Universiti Sains Malaysia
36. Lukhman Nur Hakim bin Ahmad Ridzuan – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electrical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Mara
37. Muhamad Syazwan bin Md Aris – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Chemical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia
38. Muhammad Daniel bin Haris Nasation – Bachelor of Sport Science (Honours), Universiti Teknologi Mara
39. Ng Kia Kheng – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electronic Engineering, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
40. Ng Tze Hong – Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) Applied Statistics, Universiti Sains Malaysia
41. Nur Nasuha binti Bakar – Bachelor of Quantity Surveying (Honours), Universiti Teknologi Mara
42. Nurul Syahirah binti Asrul Effendi – Bachelor of Accountancy (Honours), University Teknologi Mara
43. Ooi Kean Lee – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Mechanical Engineering, University of Sunderland
44. Ooi Lim Seong Liang – Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
45. Ooi Yan Xin – Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) Industrial Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang
46. Ooi Yong Xuan – Bachelor of Nutrition (Honours), Management & Science University
47. Poornakala A/P Rathakrishnan – Bachelor of Accounting with Honours, Universiti Utara Malaysia
48. Seah Ciao Hern – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Mechanical Engineering (Automative), Universiti Malaysia Pahang
49. Seah Jia-Min – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Computing Studies, University of Northumbria at Newcastle
50. Seah Min Ni – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Computing Studies, University of Northumbria at Newcastle
51. Shantini A/L Chandra Logan – Bachelor of Business (Honours) Accounting and Finance, Kolej Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
52. Sim Chee Hoe – Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
53. Sim Jia Wei – Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
54. Sim Zhenzhao – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Mechanical and Manufacturing, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
55. Tan Chong Gee – Bachelor of Computer Sains (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
56. Tan Hang Yan – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electronic Engineering, Unersiti Sains Malaysia
57. Tan Kean Hong – Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) with Honours, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
58. Tan Ya Sze – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Chemical, Monash University
59. Tan Yuen Syan – Doctor of Dental Surgery, Mahsa University
60. Teh Shu Hui – Bachelor of Business (Honours) Accounting and Finance, Kolej Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
61. Teoh Yet Yi – Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) Accounting, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
62. Thow Ting Ting – Bachelor of Accounting (Honours), Universiti Sains Malaysia
63. Tiew Soo Wei – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Architecture, Universiti Malaya
64. Trishal Ashvin Kaur A/P Ranjit Singh – Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Finance, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation
65. Wong Kah Liang – Bachelor of  Engineering (Honours) Electronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis
66.  Yeong Choy Shan – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Applied Chemistry, Universiti Malaya

PFF 2019 Selection Interview was held on on 1 August (Mutiara Scholar), 5 and 6 August (Penang Scholar) 2019 at Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC). This is a face-to-face panel interview headed by members of the PFF Selection Committee and leaders from industry, academia and community. Shortlisted PFF 2019 applicants were required to attend the interview for their final round of evaluation for PFF Scholarship 2019.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has announced that application for PFF 2019 will be opened from 31 May to 20 June 2019 during a press conference held on 25 March 2019.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow shared, “PFF provides fruitful opportunities for our future Malaysian leaders. We hope to attract, build and retain human talent in Penang. We intend to engage industry players and form strategic partnerships”.

 

Buletin Mutiara’s video link: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=407257523426077