The Opening Ceremony and Launch of ‘Beyond the Classroom’ Penang

Speech by Chief Minister of Penang 
At The Opening Ceremony and Launch of ‘Beyond the Classroom’ Penang

1 December 2018

Yang Berhormat Tuan Zairil Khir Johari
EXCO Penang and State Assemblyman for Tanjong Bunga

Yang Berusaha Mr Teng Chee Wai
Managing Director of Affin Hwang Asset Management

Staff and friends of Affin Hwang Asset Management

Representatives from The Committee of Management

Teachers, Parents, and Guardians

Respected Members of the Media

Distinguished Guests, and Students

Good morning to all of you.

Thank you very much for your warm welcome, and for inviting me to the Opening Ceremony and Launch today.

Thoughts on “Beyond the Classroom”

Firstly, my heartiest congratulations to Affin Hwang Asset Management and its committee members on the successful launch of its “Beyond the Classroom’ financial literacy workshop.

We applaud this initiative by Affin Hwang to be a positive influence in our community and to advance financial literacy standards among our youth.

Hopefully, we can see the torch being passed to other corporate organisations as well, so that both the private sector and public institutions can work together for the betterment of the nation.

I would like to emphasise yet again the importance of education in nation-building and indeed it is only through knowledge that one can be empowered to take control of their lives and to advance their livelihoods.

It is a troubling fact today that many Malaysians, are burdened by money-related stress. For the majority of low and middle-income groups – wages are stagnant, with very little savings, and a growing debt situation that is not sustainable. At the same time, young Malaysians below the age of 30 are now living beyond their means, trapped in emotional spending, and are set on an inevitable path to bankruptcy and financial ruin.

But, if one is serious and prepared to make changes in their lives, it is never too late to steer themselves back on course.

But as parents, teachers and educators – it is also our role to guide our young so that they can be equipped with the essential life-skills and knowledge to take on a new world that is fast-changing. With new frontiers in technology, the world is evolving at a rapid pace which can be both exciting but also a confusing one for our children.

But important values like honesty, prudence and diligence are timeless attributes that cannot be replaced and will anchor the future generations in their own pursuit, goals and ambitions.

Message to Participants and Closing

Distinguished guests,

Before I end, allow me to once again express my gratitude and offer my congratulations to Affin Hwang Asset Management for championing this great cause, and for organising such an event.

To all the students taking part, I hope you will make full use of this opportunity to learn as much as you can.

Thank you very much, and have great fun learning over the weekend.