(First row, from fourth left) Lim, Lai and Goh alongside other guests and some scholarship recipients at the event in Kuala Lumpur.
The Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) with Carlsberg Malaysia continue to empower young Malaysians via the Carlsberg Huazong Education Fund (CEF).
This year, RM1mil was disbursed to 333 students, bringing the total disbursement to RM3mil for 999 students across 2021, 2024 and 2025.
The initiative primarily supports students from B40 and M40 households, including orphans, individuals from single-parent families and those supporting family members with special needs, according to a press release from Carlsberg Malaysia.
It said the funds were disbursed to students by each state’s Chinese Assembly Hall, with 73 recipients from Kuala Lumpur and Selangor; 27 each from Penang and Perak; 25 from Johor; 24 from Sarawak; 22 each from Melaka and Negri Sembilan, 21 each from Kedah, Pahang, Kelantan, Terengganu and Sabah; and eight from Perlis.
Carlsberg Malaysia corporate affairs and sustainability director Pearl Lai said, “Since 2021, this education fund has evolved from interest-free study loans to scholarships.
“Our continual support for educational empowerment ensures that education continues to be a gateway to a brighter, more equitable future.
“As part of our ongoing mission, Carlsberg Malaysia is also proud to champion inclusivity, ensuring that opportunities for growth and learning are accessible to students from all regions and backgrounds.”
Huazong president Tan Sri Dr Goh Tuan Chuan said education was a powerful tool for societal transformation.
“We are paving the way for a future where no deserving student is left behind.
“This partnership stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in unlocking potential and empowering young Malaysians to rise above challenges, achieve their dreams and contribute to a more prosperous society,” he said.
Also present at the event in Kuala Lumpur was Huazong deputy president Datuk Lim Kah Chuan.
Meanwhile, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak student and CEF recipient Kirtina Muniandy said receiving the education aid was a form of affirmation and encouragement.
“Knowing that my hard work is noticed motivates me to pursue my goals with greater determination and to continuously enhance my professional capabilities so that I can create a positive impact in society,” said Kirtina.
Angeline Tan, from Politeknik Kuching Sarawak, said, “Seeing my mother’s sacrifices has always driven me, and being selected to receive this aid shows there are people and organisations in Malaysia who genuinely care about students like us.
“It reminds me that opportunities are real if we keep striving, and it strengthens my resolve to become an accountant who can one day give back to my family and community.”
Caleb Sawing Thomas from Kolej Vokasional Kuching called the support life‑changing.
“I’m even more driven to finish my culinary training and build a career where I can give back in meaningful ways.
“To anyone facing similar challenges, I say believe in yourself, keep going and one day you will make it,” he said.
Established in 1998, CEF has positively impacted the lives of nearly 1,500 students across Malaysia.
