Penang: The Persatuan Kebajikan 88 Kapten Pulau Pinang (88 Captains) has awarded more than RM1 million in scholarships to 44 students from five educational institutions as part of its ongoing efforts to empower young talents and contribute to the development of education. Its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ooi Eng Hock said the scholarships were not merely aimed at easing the financial burden on students, but also at inspiring young talents to dream bigger, work harder and eventually give back to society with the right attitude and character.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the organisation also remained committed to bridging the gap between academia and industry through its Apprenticeship, Internship, Reskilling and Upskilling (AIRU) programme, which was launched last year at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) here. 'We established a dedicated task force under our 88 Captain Young Fellowship, led by outstanding scholars from USM, ViTrox College, Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) and INTI International University. They will meet CEOs and founders to understand industry expectations while sharing the aspirations and perspectives of today's graduates, including the minimum starting salary of RM4,000 for graduates,' he said at the 88 Captains Annual Charity Dinner 2026 here last night.
The event, which successfully raised a total of RM1.89 million, was graced by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah, and attended by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. Ooi pointed out that over the past four years, 88 Captains had organised more than 50 events and carried out various community initiatives, including donating smart televisions to primary and secondary schools, establishing 5G Education Digital Libraries in 88 schools and supporting the Special Education Integration Programme (PPKI).
Meanwhile, Chow commended 88 Captains for its focus on education and talent development through scholarships, digital learning initiatives and partnerships with schools, universities and industry. He also noted that the AIRU programme, which strengthens the link between education and industry, supports Penang's ambition to become a leader in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI) and the digital economy.
'I also commend 88 Captains and its partners for launching the Joint Mental Health Development in Schools with AI Early Education for Responsible Adoption earlier this week. This initiative comes at the right time following the introduction of the Anti-Bullying Act 2026. While the law provides the legal framework, prevention depends on our schools, families and communities. We must equip teachers, support students and promote the responsible use of AI,' he said.
Established in 2022, 88 Captains is a charitable non-governmental organisation founded to support talent development by providing financial aid to deserving students in Penang and the Northern Region.