A total of 167 outstanding Hindu students from 37 schools across Penang were celebrated today for their stellar performance in the 2024 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysian (SPM) examination. At a ceremony held at Kompleks Masyarakat Penyayang, the Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) awarded a total of RM 70,200 in cash prizes to students who scored 7As and above.
The recognition, now in its second consecutive year is part of PHEB’s broader initiative to encourage academic achievement and support the educational aspirations of the Indian community in the state.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the ceremony, expressed his pride in the students achievements and reiterated the state government’s commitment to human capital development under the Penang2030 Vision. Which includes quality education and equal opportunities for everyone.
“I am extremely proud of the 819 candidates in Penang who abstained Straight As in the 2024 SPM exam”.
According to Chow, Penang saw an overall improvement in academic performance this year, with the average grader point (GPN) improving to 4.39 from 4.49 in 2023. The percentage of student eligible to receive their SPM certificates also increased to 93.67%.
PHEB deputy chairman Senator Dr RA Lingeswaran shared that each student received RM50 per A, with the award amounts ranging from RM350 (7As) to RM550 (11As). The board also presented special accolades to the highest achievers. Among them was Darshini Subash Sun from SMK Hussein Onn, who scored 9A+ and received a trophy, a laptop and cash of RM450. Another high achiever, Kuhan Tharman from SMJK Chung Ling, who scored 8As and received RM400 cash.
Dr Lingeshwaran noted that between 2023 and Mya 2025, PHEB had channeled RM883,607 in education aid to support students pursuing certificate, diploma, and degree programmes, in addition to providing welfare assistance. In total, nearly RM1 million has benefited at least 1,028 Hindu students in Penang. This year, PHEB has received RM2 million in state funding, up from RM1.5 million last year. Dr Lingeshwaran said that he is deeply grateful for the state’s trust and continued support.
The ceremony also doubled as an education and career guidance platform for SPM and STPM, leavers, equipping students with information and resources for their next steps in higher education or vocational training.
“Success in SPM is only the first step. Continue striving, continue learning. Your talents are needed not only to fill job vacancies, but to drive innovation, uplift the economy, and improve the quality of life in our nation”
The event highlighted not just academic excellence, but a strong collaborative effort between the state and community organisation to invest in the dreams of Penang’s youth.
Sources: FMT, Buletin Mutiara
