Shah Alam, 2 December 2016

The Malaysian AEON Foundation continues to provide basic education amenities to schools in need through the 2016 edition of its BEST (Basic Education SupporT) Project.

During the launch of the charity initiative held at AEON Mall Shah Alam today, Chairman of AEON CO. (M) BHD and Malaysian AEON Foundation President, YBhg Dato’ Abdullah Mohd Yusof, along with Deputy Secretary-General of the Education Ministry, YBhg Datuk Seri Azmi Bin Lateh presented a total of RM399,000.00 in funds to representatives from four selected schools.

“The younger generation is the foundation upon which the future of the country will be built on. Hence, we want to help create the best learning environment to nurture their educational growth. This is especially so for students in rural areas who are often deprived of basic education facilities. Education should not be a luxury. It is a necessity,” explained YBhg Dato’ Abdullah Mohd Yusof.

While past BEST Projects focused on schools in Sarawak, Perak and Kelantan, the latest effort zoomed in on schools in Selangor. SK Asli Bukit Cheding, Banting; SK Teluk Ru, Sabak Bernam; SK Jenis Tamil Pulau Carey, Barat; and SK Kuala Pajam, Beranang, Kajang, received RM146,000.00; RM70,000.00; RM76,000.00 and RM107,000.00 respectively.

The financial assistance given would go towards funding several refurbishments in each school. They include the construction of a multipurpose futsal and sepak takraw court, the restoration of a faulty electrical system, the upgrading of libraries and a computer room, plus the purchase of equipment and furniture for a room dedicated to special needs children. With renovation works currently underway, the 2016 BEST Project is expected to be completed early January 2017.

Since the establishment of the BEST Project in August 2012, the initiative has contributed a total of RM1.327 million to 14 schools. On top of having credible teachers and educational programs, BEST Project also recognises the correlation between a conducive learning environment and active student participation. YBhg Dato’ Abdullah Mohd Yusof added, “With BEST Project, we believe that in transforming a child’s education environment, we are able to change their lives for the better.”

Moving forward, the BEST Project is slated to be an annual event in the Malaysian AEON Foundation calendar, and will cater to more schools in the Peninsular.