PFF 2024: Scholarship Applications Open 15 July – 9 August

PRESS STATEMENT BY YAB CHOW KON YEOW, CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG IN KOMTAR, GEORGE TOWN, 6 MAY 2024

Penang Future Foundation (“PFF”) started in 2015 as the Penang State Government’s initiative to aid outstanding and deserving Malaysian youths to pursue tertiary studies in public/private universities in Malaysia. With valuable contributions from the private sector and donors, and recognizing the importance of education and the need to retain local talents, PFF has awarded approximately 751 scholarships over the last 9 years. The awarded scholarships to date carry a projected value of RM41.7 million. For the year 2023 alone, 51 students from a diverse range of backgrounds were awarded scholarships in fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Accountancy and Finance.

Though the State has celebrated 50 years of industrialization excellence in 2022, our focus is now firmly set on the next 50 years in improving and increasing Penang’s competitive edge.

As more international industry players continue to choose Penang as one of their focal locations for investments, this positive development crucially highlights the importance of growing a stable talent pool that meets industry needs. Based on the Malaysian Investment Development Authority’s (MIDA) investment performance report for year 2023, Penang took the prime spot for the highest approved investments totaling RM71.9 billion. Penang may be the second smallest state, but our geographical limitations did not stop us from garnering more than 20 per centum of the nation’s total collective sum of RM329.5 billion in approved investments.

I would like to welcome prospective applicants from all over Malaysia to apply for either ‘PFF Penang Scholar’ or ‘PFF Mutiara Scholar’ scholarship awards. Interested candidates are advised to check the eligibility requirements for each category. Both categories have different eligibility criteria based on, among others, candidates’ financial background and scholastic record. ‘PFF Penang Scholar’ caters for those with CGPA of 3.67 and above whereas ‘PFF Mutiara Scholar’ is available for applicants whose CGPA is between 3.00 to 3.66. Successful applicants will receive benefits that correspond with the scholarship awarded to them. Detailed information on benefits and terms of the scholarship is available at PFF’s website (www.penangfuturefoundation.my).

Application window for PFF Scholarship 2024 will open from 15 July 2024 to 9 August 2024. Interested students are encouraged to keep a lookout for periodic announcements through PFF’s website at www.penangfuturefoundation.my; Buletin Mutiara’s distributed free copies; and social media websites including Facebook and Twitter.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1215686753246179&id=100044145983961&mibextid=oFDknk&rdid=91kP2ujEXeraQ4zX

Penang Future Foundation continues to nourish talent despite funding challenges

THE Penang Future Foundation (PFF) continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing Malaysia’s brightest minds, despite facing funding challenges that threaten its sustainability.

Speaking at the Penang Future Foundation 2023 Award Presentation, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who is also the chairman of the PFF Selection Committee, emphasised the programme’s decade-long commitment to supporting outstanding Malaysian students.

“We remain committed to attracting and retaining talents to spearhead the state’s growth over the next 50 years.

“A total of 700 students have received the PFF scholarships between 2015 and 2022, enabling them to pursue undergraduate degrees in various fields, including Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Accountancy, and Finance.

“The recent 2023 selection process saw an additional 43 students awarded the prestigious Penang Scholar award, and eight students selected for the Mutiara Scholar award,” he told a media conference at his office today.

Chow also cautioned the programme’s financial sustainability.

“Funding is not an eternal fruit-bearing tree. I must acknowledge that the available funds for PFF have been steadily depleting with every round of awarded scholarships.

“We call upon key industry players to step forward and contribute towards securing the future of PFF, ensuring that PFF remains a lifeline for gifted and deserving students,” Chow highlighted the importance of collective action in maintaining the programme’s vitality.

While acknowledging past contributions from companies such as National Instruments (NI) and local developer Hunza Group, he urged Penang’s extensive business community, comprising over 350 multinational corporations (MNCs) and 4,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to increase their financial support.

“Ultimately, it will be the industry reaping the rewards of the talent development programme through this scholarship.

“Without substantial support from all stakeholders, the forthcoming online application window for the PFF 2024 Scholarship Award, tentatively scheduled to open on July 15 this year, sadly marks one of our final opportunities,” Chow added.

Also present at the award presentation ceremony were four recipients from the 2023 cohort – Beh Jia Liang, Daswina Shanmuganathan, Peh Jia Xuan, and Mohamad Izzuddin Mohd Hadir.

Beh, an electrical engineering undergraduate at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), said has alleviated his family’s financial burden significantly.

whatsapp image 2024 03 14 at 1.21.21 pm — Beh.

“My mother and I both suffer from a chronic illness, requiring monthly medical check-ups and costly treatments. The scholarships have been a lifeline for us, covering my tuition fees and providing a much-needed living allowance.

“Being awarded this scholarship instils in me a profound sense of responsibility and a renewed motivation to pursue excellence,” he said.

Daswina, a mechanical engineering undergraduate at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in Nibong Tebal, said the scholarship has changed her life.

whatsapp image 2024 03 14 at 1.21.22 pm — Daswina.

“My father is the sole provider for our family, and there came a time when his income could not cover my educational expenses.

“I am immensely thankful for the PFF scholarship, which has enabled me to afford my tuition fees and meet my living expenses,” Daswina expressed, with a commitment to giving back to Penang once she completes her studies.

Mohamad Izzuddin, who is currently pursuing his studies in Biological Sciences at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in Selangor, expressed his gratitude to the state for awarding him with the scholarship.

whatsapp image 2024 03 14 at 1.21.22 pm (1) — Mohamad Izzuddin.

“While many prioritise development and progress, my passion lies in the conservation of our natural environment and resources. The scholarship helps to motivate me to excel in my studies.

“I want to contribute back to my state, community and nature after I complete my studies,” he said.

Meanwhile, Peh expressed her gratitude to the Penang government and the PFF Selection Committee for entrusting her with the scholarship.

whatsapp image 2024 03 14 at 1.21.23 pm — Peh.

“The scholarship acts as a gateway for me to realise my goals and achieve my dreams. With the support of this scholarship, I can focus more on my studies without financial worries and distractions.

“I aspire to be a software engineer and I am committed to working in Penang, utilising my knowledge to develop innovative solutions to serve the needs of the community in the state,” the computer science undergraduate from INTI International College Penang said.

PFF Selection Committee members – Datuk Seri Nazir Ariff, Datuk Loo Lee Lian, and Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Lim Koon Ong – were also present at the award presentation ceremony.

Source: Buletin Mutiara (https://www.buletinmutiara.com/penang-future-foundation-continues-to-nourish-talent-despite-funding-challenges/)

PFF 2023 Selection Interview

We are thrilled to announce the successful culmination of the PFF 2023 Selection Interview, a crucial step in identifying and nurturing the brightest minds of tomorrow. This year, the PFF Secretariat meticulously reviewed all applications, seeking individuals with exceptional potential, a strong commitment to Penang, and a drive to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields.

The Selection Interview, held on September 25th and 26th, 2023, was a platform for candidates to showcase not only their academic prowess but also their dedication to their community and their vision for Penang’s future. The interview sessions were led by the Selection Committee members and partnered with invited industry experts as co-interviewers. Together, they delved into various aspects, including the candidate’s potential, family background, and any financial assistance they may have received.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to our esteemed industry partners who graciously dedicated their time and expertise to be a part of the PFF 2023 Selection Interview:

Ms. Lai Yet Foon (Intel)
Dr. Jeen Khor (Escatec)
Mr. Yeoh Shih Hoong (ViTrox)
Mr. Chandra Segar (AMD)
Tuan Haji Abdul Latiff (PDC)
Ms. Cindy Chow (Dell)
Mr. Johnny Liew (In-Tech)
Ms. Chan Wah-Bin (Keysight)
Mr. Ng Wei Tee (StarFive)

Their invaluable contribution has greatly enriched this process, and we are immensely grateful for their participation.

The objective was clear: to unearth the most promising talents who embody the spirit of PFF’s mission – to empower individuals who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Penang.

As we look ahead, we are excited to witness the remarkable impact these scholars will undoubtedly have on our beloved community. Together, we forge a path towards a brighter, more prosperous future for Penang.

PFF 2023 Dinner

On 21 August 2023, the Penang Future Foundation (PFF) Day concluded with an appreciation night at Olive Tree Hotel, hosted by Chief Minister of Penang, YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow 曹觀友, who is also the Chairman of PFF Selection Committee.

Since August 2019 till August 2023 there are 347 scholars who have graduated and over 290 scholars along with more than 35 industry players gathered together at the PFF dinner to celebrate this wonderful night with various programmes such as certificate-giving, performances by PFF scholars and networking session between industry players and the scholars.

We extend our gratitude to the Penang State Government, PFF Selection Committee members, co-interviewers, and industry players for their unwavering support on cultivating the future talent, improving their professional development, and making tertiary education more accessible by providing financial aid.

Once again, congratulations and well done to the 347 scholars.

PFF Day 2023 – Industrial Immersion: A Learning Experience

The Penang Future Foundation (PFF) Day 2023 reconvened after three years, with the theme “Industrial Immersion: A Learning Experience”, organised by Penang CAT Centre. The objective of this event is to allow scholars to directly engage with industry experts and immersing themselves in the real-world work environment in Penang.

Over 120 students joined the PFF Day at the Ship Campus, Batu Kawan. At the commencement of the event, Dato Loo Lee Lian, from InvestPenang presented the industry outlook and Penang current talent landscape. Followed by the two esteemed speakers, Ms. Cindy Chow from Dell Technologies and Mr. Friiscor Ho from Lattice Semiconductor, shared the overview of the respective companies and insights about abundant job opportunities available. This event highlighted the State’s initiative to foster continuous engagement and stronger bonds with the PFF scholars.

We would like to extend our gratitude to Inari, Lam Research Corporation, Boston Scientific, and ViTrox, who hosted the scholars at their facilities in Batu Kawan Industrial Park and shared the latest trends and practices in the manufacturing industry, together with plant tours.

Application for the PFF Scholarship 2023 is open from Aug 1 to Aug 25

The Penang Future Foundation (PFF), a state initiative, started in 2015 to assist outstanding and deserving Malaysian youths to pursue tertiary studies in public/private universities in Malaysia.

Now in its ninth year, this scholarship fund remains one of Penang’s means of attracting, building and retaining human talent.

Application for the PFF Scholarship 2023 is open from Aug 1 to Aug 25 this year.

Interested students are encouraged to keep a lookout for periodic announcements through PFF’s website at www.penangfuturefoundation.my; Buletin Mutiara’s distributed free copies; and social media websites including Facebook and Twitter.

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Press Statement by YAB Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang

Komtar, George Town, 6 June 2023

Penang Future Foundation (“PFF”) started in 2015 as the Penang State Government’s initiative to aid outstanding and deserving Malaysian youths to pursue tertiary studies in public/private universities in Malaysia. With valuable contributions from the private sector and donors, and recognizing the importance of education and the need to retain local talents, PFF has awarded approximately 700 scholarships over the last 8 years. The awarded scholarships to date carry a projected value of RM38.81 million. For the year 2022 alone, 45 students from a diverse range of backgrounds were awarded scholarships in fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Accountancy and Finance.

Now in its ninth year, this scholarship fund remains as one of Penang State Government’s mechanisms in attracting, building and retaining human talent. Fresh from the state’s 2022 celebration of Penang’s 50 years of industrialization and in preparation for many more decades of industrial excellence, the Penang State Government is geared towards upholding Penang’s competitive edge by developing multi-faceted initiatives and ramping the talent supply to meet industry needs. Skilled talents are undoubtedly a crucial component in attracting investments, both foreign and domestic. In this regard, Penang recorded RM110 billion of foreign direct investments (FDIs) from 2019 to 2022, out of which 84% (or RM92 billion) were contributed by the Electrical & Electronics (E&E) sector. This translates into 44% of Malaysia’s RM209 billion FDIs in E&E for the said period, which attested Penang’s instrumental role in anchoring Malaysia’s participation in this industry.

Prospective students may apply to be either a ‘PFF Penang Scholar’ or ‘PFF Mutiara Scholar’. Interested candidates are advised to check the eligibility requirements for each category. Both categories have different eligibility criteria based on, among others, candidates’ financial background and scholastic record. ‘PFF Penang Scholar’ caters for those with CGPA of 3.67 and above whereas ‘PFF Mutiara Scholar’ is available for applicants whose CGPA is between 3.00 to 3.66. Successful applicants will receive benefits that correspond with the scholarship awarded to them. Detailed information on benefits and terms of the scholarship is available at PFF’s website (www.penangfuturefoundation.my).

Application window for PFF Scholarship 2023 will open from 1 August 2023 to 25 August 2023. Interested students are encouraged to keep a lookout for periodic announcements through PFF’s website at www.penangfuturefoundation.my; Buletin Mutiara’s distributed free copies; and social media websites including Facebook and Twitter.

CHOW KON YEOW

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