'Convent land in Penang to be used for education, not redevelopment'

The landowner of the three convent schools in Penang has vowed to continue advocating education in mission schools.

In a statement to the media, Lady Superior of the Society of Saint Maur, Sister Mary Thresa Chua, reiterated there were no plans to sell the land or buildings where the convents are situated.

Chua said firmly, as her predecessor Sister Celine Wong had said in 2017, that there were no plans for the redevelopment of the land.

She is currently in Rome and will release a further press statement upon her return early next month.

"We wish to impress that the sisters are firm believers of education and they will continue to advocate wholesome education in their mission schools," said Chua.

"There is no intention to sell the land and buildings of our convent schools for redevelopment and it is our aspiration that our schools will continue to be used for education purposes," she added.

Speculation was rife that the land may be sold to a private developer for redevelopment but the sisters have rubbished reports about the matter in 2017.

On June 20, The Star quoted state Education Department director Dr Mahanom Mat Sam as saying that the three schools – SK Convent Light Street, SMK Convent Light Street and SMK Convent Pulau Tikus – would be closed down and the land returned to the Sisters of Infant Jesus Malaysia.

SMK Convent Light Street and SMK Convent Pulau Tikus are expected to be closed in 2023, while SK Convent Light Street in 2024, reported The Star, fueling further concerns about the end of missionary schools in Penang.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said a meeting with Chua is slated for July 19.

Chow had said that the land for the school can only be acquired by the state government if plots and buildings were surrendered to the Education Ministry.  - Mkini