Latest news with #BuletinMutiara
The Star
3 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Penang primary school repeats marching sweep
The TKRS Girls team from SJK (C) Min Sin showing their discipline and coordination while (below) the TKRS Boys team from the same school perform their marching routine during the competition. — Photos: Buletin Mutiara SJK (C) Min Sin in Penang dominated the 2025 Northeast District Marching Competition by winning all four categories for the second consecutive year. The school fielded a total of 84 pupils from Year Four to Year Six, who emerged champions in the Tunas Kadet Remaja Sekolah (TKRS) as well as the Primary School Uniformed Bodies Marching Competition (PBBSR) Boys' and Girls' categories. The TKRS Boys' from SJK (C) Min Sin performing their marching during the competition at SMK Air Itam. pic provided, july 14 2025 Their impressive performance captivated the panel of judges with their coordination, discipline and commitment to excellence during the competition held at SMK Air Itam and SK Ayer Itam. The school's teacher-in-charge Ang Aik Fung praised his pupils for their dedication and strong showing in the competition, especially newcomers from Year Four and Five. 'I am satisfied with their performance. Many were first-time participants, yet they gave their all. 'There were some weaknesses, but we'll work on them before the state-level competition on July 22 in Bukit Mertajam,' he told Buletin Mutiara. Ang said the team would review videos recorded by parents to refine their techniques and fix issues like timing errors. 'We will examine our shortcomings and fix them,' he said. Ang says they'll work on their weaknesses before the state-level competition on July 22. He acknowledged the pressure of maintaining last year's high standard, comparing it to sustaining top academic results. 'It is like scoring 90 marks in an exam last year. If you cannot maintain that this year, it becomes stressful,' said Ang, who also serves as the school's discipline teacher. He added that the standout team was the TKRS Boys team, who performed flawlessly. Meanwhile, the PBBSR Girls team, made up mostly of first-timers, overcame nerves to perform well overall. Ang added that good weather played a key role, as rain could have affected their routines. SJK (C) Min Sin senior assistant for co-curricular activities, Khaw Wei Kiat expressed pride in the clean sweep. 'This win reflects teamwork among teachers, parents and students,' he said while acknowledging leadership growth within the team, as platoon leader roles had been rotated since last year. With eyes on the state-level competition, both Ang and Khaw are optimistic about another strong showing.
The Star
10-07-2025
- Health
- The Star
Nurturing greener, healthier future
Participants of the Tote Bag Design competition posing with the panel of judges. — Courtesy photo MORE than 500 Penang schoolchildren gathered at the Straits Quay Convention Centre in Tanjung Tokong for a hands-on learning experience on health and green living. The 'Fit For Future Art: Green and Health Choices' programme was designed to spark creativity and foster community engagement for a healthier, more sustainable generation. It featured 52 booths representing various health and environmental organisations. Visitors received practical tips on healthy eating, exercise and carbon footprint reduction, as reported by state publisher Buletin Mutiara. Students took part in a variety of interactive experiences, including expressing messages about health and environmental consciousness through visual and performing arts. Penang Nature Society teacher Law Yee Chen expressed hope that the children would learn the importance of environmental protection and healthy living through creative arts, and that they would apply these values in their daily lives. 'Through participation and hands-on practice, we hope that they will become active advocates of green living,' she said. Law emphasised that such activities help spark students' creativity and sense of responsibility, laying the foundation for a sustainable future. The programme was jointly organised by the Penang branch of the Malaysian Diabetes Association (MDA), The One Academy Penang as well as various government and private agencies. Three competitions were held during the event, namely painting, tote bag design and mini skit performances. These contests sparked creativity among students and deepened their understanding of the close link between health and environmental conservation. The event also received support from various sectors of society, featuring guests who were advocates for sustainable living. Penang Environment Department director Norazizi Adinan presented certificates of appreciation to the programme's organisers and co-organisers. MDA Penang branch president Dr Dicky Ng Teik Kee described the event as a successful integration of art and education. 'Through this initiative, we witnessed the perfect blend of creativity and awareness-building, inspiring more people to care for their health and the environment. 'We hope to see more platforms like this to continuously encourage healthy lifestyles among the public,' he said.
The Star
09-07-2025
- General
- The Star
RM5.5mil school facelift unveiled
Chow (centre) flanked by students and teachers, together with state leaders and representatives from various agencies in front of the new four-storey building of SM St Mark in Butterworth. — Buletin Mutiara CM launches upgraded facilities, pledges action on road safety at Butterworth institution THE new four-storey building at SM St Mark in Butterworth, completed in 2019 at a cost of nearly RM5.5mil, was launched by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. The opening ceremony of the upgraded building was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Chow said the state had contributed over RM1mil to the school since 2009 to support the institution's various initiatives State publisher Buletin Mutiara reported that the Federal Government had approved RM3.2mil for the new building. The rest of the funds were raised through donations from a fundraising event, well-wishers, church members, alumni and the community. The school upgrade included building upkeep, laboratory facilities, ICT (information, communication and technology) equipment and other resources to support effective teaching and learning, ensuring students have full access to education. 'I am proud to see the government, education sector and community working together to make meaningful progress,' Chow said at the opening ceremony. He said efforts to upgrade the infrastructure were commendable as a conducive and comfortable learning environment had been factored in for the school community. Chow added that it would be a challenge for high-performing schools to accommodate the increasing number of students while supporting effective teaching and learning. 'Many other schools in Malaysia are also awaiting resources from the Education Ministry as well as their respective state governments.' He added that he had taken note of the issues raised by both school principal T. Shanti and its board chairman Rev Soong Hoe Pin. 'One of the concerns highlighted was the federal road near the school, which will be widened from two lanes to four lanes. 'This has raised safety concerns, especially regarding traffic flow in front of the school. 'I will raise this matter to the attention of Public Works Department (JKR) to ensure that safety aspects are prioritised in the project. 'I will do my best to fulfil the request to instal a roof over the assembly ground,' Chow said. Also present at the event were Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen, Bagan Dalam assemblyman K. Kumaran, Senator Dr R. Lingeshwaran, and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) councillor C. Linggeswaran.
The Star
19-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Penang must lead through uncertainty, says CM
Chow lauds PM, trade minister for diplomatic efforts to engage US leadership. — Buletin Mutiara Chow urges businesses to remain competitive, agile, forward-looking amid US tariff talks PENANG cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the fragile state of global trade, especially after the United States' announcement of tariffs on imports ranging from 10% to nearly 50%, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. 'Our economy is tightly interwoven with global supply chains, from semiconductors to precision tools and medical devices. 'When shocks occur, the tremors are felt not only in Silicon Valley or Shanghai but right here in Bayan Lepas and Batu Kawan,' he said. State publisher Buletin Mutiara reported that Chow, however, said there might be cause for cautious optimism. With indications that tariffs on Malaysian goods may be capped at 10% as opposed to the feared 24% or more, he praised Malaysia's diplomatic efforts and proactive leadership. 'I applaud Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and our Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz for taking swift, strategic steps, including directly engaging the US leadership. 'It is proof that diplomacy still works when backed by a strong policy foundation and credible leadership,' said Chow. Nevertheless, he cautioned that a 10% tariff was significant and businesses in Penang must remain agile, competitive and forward-looking. He was speaking at a luncheon with members of the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) in George Town. Chow said he had been slated to speak on 'Penang on the Rise – Focusing on Infrastructure, Sustainability & Innovation' but shifted his tone in light of recent geopolitical developments. He said Penang's role as a critical link in global supply chains left it acutely exposed to international economic disruptions but also uniquely placed to seize new opportunities. He also reaffirmed the state's commitment to resilience, innovation and global competitiveness in the face of growing trade tensions, stating that Penang is well-positioned to navigate and lead during this uncertain period in global economics. Separately, Chow underscored the importance of strong public-private collaboration in navigating these changes, highlighting the role of MICCI and its members as strategic partners. 'You are more than just the voice of business. 'Through feedback, policy alignment, and talent development, your collaboration with the state government, particularly through InvestPenang and Penang Development Corporation, helps ensure we cannot only adapt but lead,' he said. Echoing Penang's history as a trading hub turned technology powerhouse, Chow concluded his remarks with a message of resilience and opportunity. 'Penang remains open for business, open for innovation and open for collaboration. 'Let us not just respond to uncertainty but lead through it,' he stated. Also present were state executive councillors Daniel Gooi Zi Sen and Lim Siew Khim and MICCI northern branch chairman Datuk Brian Tan Guan Hooi.
The Star
15-06-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Journos lauded for vital role amid digital deluge
Chow (foreground, in multi-coloured shirt) and Mohd Iskandar (on Chow's left) with journalists during the cake-cutting ceremony to mark the 10th anniversary of Kelab Media Mutiara Pulau Pinang. — Buletin Mutiara IN an environment where the landscape is crowded with misinformation, manipulation and rapid digital dissemination, journalists serve as the boundary between fact and falsehood, truth and distortion, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. He said the role of the media had never been more important as society struggled to navigate such a landscape. Speaking at the 10th anniversary of Kelab Media Mutiara Pulau Pinang and National Journalists Day (Hawana) celebration at The Light Hotel in Seberang Jaya, Chow said Penang government valued the media as a strategic partner in the state's development. State publisher Buletin Mutiara reported Chow as describing the media as one of the most important entities in disseminating accurate and timely information to the public. He also commended journalists for their unwavering commitment to the truth, especially during challenging periods such as the Covid-19 pandemic. 'I remember clearly how during the pandemic, while movement was restricted for most people, our journalist friends were still out on the ground, risking their safety to deliver timely and accurate information. That dedication brought hope and clarity to many. 'Journalists of integrity are not just news writers. 'They are bearers of verified information, agents of checks and balances in a democratic nation and influencers of public thought. 'In a world saturated with fast and often confusing information, journalists play a critical role in filtering, investigating, and ensuring that what is shared is accurate and truthful,' he said during the event. The Chief Minister also said that the anniversary marked 10 years of impactful reporting and meaningful engagement with the people of Penang. Chow added that National Journalists Day was an important day to recognise the vital role played by journalists around the world, often in the face of grave risks, including threats to their lives. 'It is also a day to appreciate the media for giving voice to the voiceless. 'That role remains essential and must be carried out effectively.' Chow said journalists today must embrace emerging technologies and face a range of modern challenges, but added that these challenges also brought new opportunities. Also present were Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, Malaysian Press Institute president Datuk Yong Soo Heong, Kelab Media Mutiara Pulau Pinang president Mohd Iskandar Othman, past presidents Ahmad Zhafaran Mohamed and Imran Hilmy Tawfik Hilmy, club members, sponsors and guests. In his speech, Mohd Iskandar said since its formation in 2015, the club had organised a wide range of programmes, from community outreach and professional development to recreational and welfare activities. To mark its 10th anniversary, the club introduced 10 special programmes. 'As media practitioners, we do more than report the news. 'We are the voice of the people, narrative builders and custodians of truth. 'And in this challenging digital age, we must remain ethical, credible and courageous in speaking the truth,' Mohd Iskandar said in his speech. He also encouraged part-time or contract-based media personnel to register with PERKESO for protection in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Mohd Iskandar announced that the club sent 10 representatives to attend the national-level Hawana celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, which was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
