THE Buddhist Tzu-Chi Merits Society of Malaysia will soon have its own campus, spanning 24.3ha in Bandar Cassia, Batu Kawan, Penang.
It will focus on the consolidation of education, healthcare, volunteerism and ecological stewardship programmes.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony, said the size of the project indicated the society’s long-term vision.
He said the establishment of the campus would add a new and vital dimension to Batu Kawan’s landscape.
“This campus will become a space championing human values, in perfect alignment with our Penang2030 vision.
“Once completed, the campus will stand out as a beacon of holistic development, cultivating civic consciousness and fostering a compassionate society – one that places equal value on people, purpose and progress,” he said, as reported by Buletin Mutiara.
Chow added that Batu Kawan had rapidly evolved into one of Penang’s most dynamic growth corridors, with high-tech industrial parks, educational institutions, residential communities and commercial developments.
“As Chief Minister, I have always believed that Penang’s future extends across the bridge, into Seberang Perai. And this initiative reinforces that belief,” he said.
Chow expressed hope that the campus would stand as a lasting symbol of what could be achieved together – a place of learning, healing and unity for generations to come.
Buddhist Tzu-Chi chief executive officer Koay Ji-Yuan expressed appreciation to the Penang government for its support, especially in allocating the land for the campus.
“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to make this vision a reality with the state’s backing,” Koay said.
Also present at the event were state executive councillors Lim Siew Khim, Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo, Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, Penang Development Corporation chief executive officer Datuk Aziz Bakar and Buddhist Tzu-Chi Penang commissioner Datuk Khoo Boo Leong.
