Back to School programme eases financial burden

The Penang Hindu Association and Klinik Derma Sivasanta (TFA), in partnership with the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), united to provide assistance to school-going children.

The “Back-to-School Programme event was held on February 25th at at Klinik Derma Sivasanta, River Road, Penang

Program targets low-income households

The program aimed to ease the financial burden on low-income households as the new school term approached.

“We distributed cash vouchers worth RM100 for primary school students and RM150 for secondary and college students,” explained P. Murugiah, chairman of the Penang Hindu Association.

“Goodie bags containing stationery, socks, water bottles, and snacks were also provided.”

Rising costs of school supplies

Murugiah highlighted the specific difficulties faced by single-parent families, where mothers often hold part-time jobs with limited monthly income.

“These families are already struggling, and the rising cost of school supplies adds further strain,” he said.

He expressed concern that children might even drop out due to the inability to afford essential items.

“Our goal is to ensure that these children can stay in school,” Murugiah emphasised.

He pointed out that the mid-month school start date could create additional challenges for parents facing financial constraints, potentially forcing them to borrow money or delay purchases until their next paycheck.

Dato’ Ir. Rajendran Anthony, the Mayor of MBPP, officiated at the event and personally distributed vouchers and goodie bags to the students.

This collaboration between various organizations demonstrates the importance of local initiatives in supporting vulnerable communities.