KUCHING: Yayasan Petronas has launched the Powering Knowledge: Back-to-School Programme (BTS 2023) in Sarawak, providing school supplies to approximately 2,940 primary and lower secondary school students from low-income households.
The initiative includes vouchers that can be redeemed for a complete set of school uniforms, black shoes, socks, and sports attire for each student.
Lower primary school students will also receive a classroom kit containing a school bag, color pencils, and a stationery set, while secondary school students will additionally receive a scientific calculator.
The distribution of the BTS 2023 packs will be facilitated through the District Education Offices (PPDs) and will reach selected students from 240 schools across various districts in Sarawak.
These districts include Kuching, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Padawan, Serian, Simunjan, Sri Aman, Lubok Antu, Betong, Saratok, Sarikei, Maradong, Julau, Kanowit, Sibu, Song, Kapit, Daro, Dalat, Miri, Tatau, Sebauh, Belaga, Baram, Miri, Lawas, and Limbang.
Yayasan Petronas chief executive officer Shariah Nelly Francis stressed the foundation’s commitment to the academic success of students, recognising the significance of equipping them with essential school supplies to help them not only stay in school but also thrive in their classrooms.
“The BTS 2023 initiative aims to set students up for success and ensure they are well-prepared to face the challenges of the new school term.”
The launching ceremony on Friday (May 26) was held at the Auditorium, Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri Sarawak (JPNS) and was attended by Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.
The Powering Knowledge: Back to School Programme was initiated by Petronas over a decade ago with the objective of enabling students from low-income families to actively engage in the education process and successfully complete their schooling.
The programme also helps alleviate the financial burden on their parents. This year, Yayasan Petronas has provided essential school supplies to 21,000 lower primary and lower secondary school students nationwide as the 2023 academic year begins.
