Planting seeds of hope – Laptops for students in need

By V. Sivaji

With a deep belief that education is the most powerful tool to change one’s future, State Executive Councillor for Housing and Environment, Dato Seri Sundarajoo Somu, presented laptops to 50 deserving students from underprivileged backgrounds at a heartwarming ceremony yesterday evening in Komtar.

Most of the recipients were from his own constituency in Perai, while a couple came from Kedah and Perak. Each student is currently pursuing their studies in various fields and now, they will do so with better access to digital learning tools.

Most of them were accompanied by their parents too.

What made the occasion especially meaningful was Sundarajoo’s personal connection to their struggles. Once a taxi driver, he shared how hard work, perseverance, and education paved the way for his own journey — from humble beginnings to eventually becoming a deputy president in the private sector.

“I know what it’s like to start with very little,” he told the students. “That’s why I want to give back. This is not about recognition or reward — it’s about opening doors for others, just as they were once opened for me.”

True to those words, Sundarajoo has chosen not to draw a salary since taking office. Instead, he channels those funds directly into initiatives like this one. So far this year, his office has distributed 100 laptops to underprivileged students — with a goal to deliver 50 more by year’s end.

“This programme is about more than just laptops,” he said. “It’s about celebrating hope, opportunity, and the power of education to transform lives.”

The recipients came from diverse racial and cultural backgrounds – a reflection of the shared dreams and struggles that unite communities. 

For every student who received a laptop, the event marked more than just a gift, it was a reminder that someone believes in their potential and that brighter days lie ahead.