BATU CAVES: The Eco World Foundation officially handed over a covered walkway to SMK Selayang Bharu today. The ceremony was attended by Chairman of Eco World Foundation, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye; President and Chief Executive Officer of Eco World Development Group Berhad, Dato’ Chang Khim Wah; as well as members of the Board of Trustees of Yayasan Eco World, Tan Sri Mohd Radzi Bin Sheikh Ahmad and Mr Philip Mathews.

Located in Batu Caves, SMK Selayang Bharu has a total of 1,974 students and 142 of them are students with special needs. This large number further strengthens the Eco World Foundation’s intention to help build a covered walkway for the school to meet the needs of students. This is also in line with the EcoWorld Cares initiative.

The EcoWorld Cares initiative is the company’s effort to improve the quality of life and provide sustainable experiences for future generations. It covers aspects of education, empowerment, economic stability, financial freedom and job security.

Among the Eco World Foundation’s contributions in terms of educational assistance are the construction of basic school infrastructure, providing classroom furniture and improving the schools’ landscape.

Since its inception, the Foundation has assisted 2,000 students annually across 117 schools under its Students Aid Programme (SAP). The SAP aims to provide essential educational support to underprivilege students of all backgrounds, regardless of their race, religion or ethnicity at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels.

To date Eco World Foundation has spent RM1.26 million on upgrading school infrastructure since its inception in 2014. Last year, the Foundation also embarked on a special project to further assist schools participating under the SAP. A total of five schools have benefitted from this.

“The Eco World Foundation believes that education is one of the most important aspects and that every student deserves equal educational opportunities, and the provision of basic school infrastructure must also be emphasised to ensure that the needs of these students are successfully met,” said Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, Chairman of Eco World Foundation.

“Social responsibility is the commitment and obligation of individuals, organisations and companies to voluntarily contribute to society and the environment. The Eco World Foundation fully supports the Government’s call to help ease the burden of students with special needs by providing opportunities for them to enjoy the quality of education and reach their full potential,” added Tan Sri Lee.

According to Tan Sri Lee, the current pathway in SMK Selayang Bharu is uncovered, leaving students exposed to the elements and significantly impacted by rainy weather conditions.

To alleviate this situation, the Eco World Foundation has built a 21-metre covered walkway known as “Laluan Teduhan Eco Mutiara” which will benefit the school community, especially the special needs students. The school environment has also become more complete and conducive. This route is also equipped with special lights and handles for the special needs students.

“Cooperation and contributions from various parties are very important for positive development among students with special needs, as well as helping to produce skilled people who have the potential to be an asset to the country,” said Tan Sri Lee.

The Eco World Foundation also hopes that more agencies and corporate companies will continue to channel assistance and support to schools, especially those in need regardless of race, religion and background.