GEORGE TOWN: Penang is accelerating the transformation of Tamil schools across the state with multi-million-ringgit investment in infrastructure, digital learning and student support, said its housing and environment committee chairman, Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo.
He said the move makes Penang the only state in the country with a dedicated annual allocation for all Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Tamil (SJKT).
Sundarajoo, who heads the Special Committee on Tamil Schools, said Penang had also become the first state to equip every SJKT with smartboards.
“Many Tamil schools began as estate schools during the British era. When plantations closed or changed ownership, the schools were left behind with ageing buildings, limited facilities and very little support,” he said when replying on behalf of the Chief Minister to A. Kumaresan (PH–Batu Uban) at the state assembly on Monday (Nov 17).
Kumaresan was asked about the Tamil school committee's efforts to upgrade the infrastructure of Tamil schools and achieve academic excellence for students.
“Through the Special Committee, we have put in place a structured plan to improve infrastructure, academic performance and digital readiness in every SJKT,” said Sundarajoo.
He added that over the years, tens of millions of ringgit have been channelled into classroom upgrades, computer labs, digital learning equipment and academic enhancement programmes.
For 2025, the state allocated RM2.3mil to 28 SJKT and 14 Tamil kindergartens. The funds cover classroom repairs, roof and toilet upgrades, improvements to preschool facilities, teacher training programs and the purchase of school equipment and digital tools.
Sundarajoo said the state was also focused on supporting B40 families and had prioritised upgrading Tamil kindergartens.
In April, Penang held its first SJKT Sports Carnival involving more than 1,000 pupils, teachers and parents from all 28 Tamil schools, aimed at promoting teamwork and stronger community engagement.
Regarding the status of the new SJKT Sungai Bakap building, Sundarajoo stated that discussions had been held with the Education Minister; however, the project remains tied to an ongoing court process. He said that the Education Ministry could only proceed once the case was resolved, to avoid interfering with the judicial process.
