GEORGE TOWN: The RM1 million raised from a donation drive for former chief minister Lim Guan Eng’s bail in his corruption charges two years ago has been channelled to a university scholarship programme under the Penang government.
Penang DAP vice-chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo handed over RM1.038 million to the Penang Future Foundation (PFF) in a small function at the state assembly meeting room today.
The sum, consisting of the money raised as well as interest accrued, was given to Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow who chairs the PFF. Chow is also state DAP chief.
“We hope the money will help more of Penang’s hopefuls in pursuing their dreams,” Jagdeep said.
The PFF initiative was established in 2015 to help top students enter the universities of their choice and continue their studies in science, technology, math, accounting and finance.
Scholarship recipients are required to work in Penang upon graduation.
The RM1 million was raised to pay Lim’s bail after he was charged with corruption in the High Court along with businesswoman Phang Li Koon. It was returned to Lim’s bailor, state executive councillor Phee Boon Poh, after the case was dropped this year.
Both Phang and Lim were acquitted by the High Court on Sept 3 following the prosecution’s decision to drop the charges against them.