GEORGE TOWN – In the space of two months, a computer leasing scheme run by Penang social development exco, Chong Eng, with strategic partner Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA), managed to raise a total sponsorship of RM2 million.
During the launch of the e-learning computer programme, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted that since May 21, 2020, during the movement control order, 1,742 computers have been distributed to needy students.
Out of the 1,742 laptops, a total of 945 were given, and another 797 loaned to help students with e-learning, while another 279 smartphones were also distributed.
This leasing scheme is the latest initiative and involves two methods; lease-to-use and lease-to-own, Chow said.
“We are thankful that the state government has many strategic partners in the industrial sectors, NGOs, government-funded agencies and also individuals who are committed to helping the state create a conducive e-learning environment for students and teachers within the state.
“However, following the suspension of the Parliamentary session, I would like to take this opportunity to raise a question on the status of providing 150,000 laptops to B40 students for teaching and home learning needs due to the Covid-19 pandemic as announced in the 2021 budget by the federal government.
“I would also like to ask the federal government to list the number of laptops that have been distributed so far, with the breakdown of states as well as the costs involved,” Chow said.
According to Chong Eng, 100 refurbished laptops are under lease-to-use. It will be leased for six months (at) a cost of RM1 per day, or RM30 monthly. The state government will be funding this initiative.
As for lease-to-own, the leasing term will be three years. All 1,562 laptops sponsored by the members of MSIA under this scheme are new. After three years, schools will own the laptops.
“It has to stay with the school so that when these students who use them graduate and move on to further their education, the laptops can be used by the next batch of students.
“Evaluations and decisions on where the laptops are channelled are made by the program committee, and the laptops will be distributed in phases.
“For Penang to be a smart state, we also need to have smart systems,” she said.
All schools in the state are urged to apply.
In attendance at the event was also MSIA president Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai who said that their initial goal was to sponsor 1,500 laptops.
A total of 28 semiconductor companies contributed to the cause. Among them were Western Digital with 250 laptops, Greatech Technology Bhd with 200, Intel Malaysia with 112, Micron Memory Malaysia with 100, Kok Construction (M) Sdn Bhd with 100.
Jabil Circuit Sdn Bhd and Plexus Manufacturing Sdn Bhd also donated laptops. – The Vibes, May 7, 2021
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