Speech by The President of the Penang Buddhist Association Dato' Seri Khoo Keat Siew.

This graduation ceremony today marks the end of another school year.

For the 99 pupils who are leaving the Kindergarten, they will be taking an important step in their lives when they enter standard 1 next year.

Our Kindergarten teachers have for the past couple of years laid the necessary foundation for the graduates so that they will not encounter any difficulty when they begin their primary education.

The Buddhist Association Kindergarten believes that a good preschool education will give children a head start not just at school but in life as well. Hence its activities and teachings are geared towards this goal,

Studies carried out in the United States indicate that children who attended preschool performed better academically, had more self-confidence and better social skills.

The importance of preschool education cannot be overemphasised. The ministry of Education recognises early childhood development is crucial and plans to have preschool classes at each national school.

It is heartening to know that the Kindergarten comprises children of different ethnic groups. Out of 221 children :-

147 are chinese

45 Malays

25 Indians and 4 others.

Kindergartens provide an opportunity for children to mix with other children of their own age. In our multi-racial society children should be taught at an early age to be sensitive to the customs and cultures of the different races. In this way they will be more tolerant and understanding with one another.

The PBA Kindergarten helps children to develop good character by teaching them moral values, manners, good behaviour and discipline.

Unless young children grow up properly disciplined they can become a menace to society later on.

Today it is not uncommon to find violence and bullying in schools. The decision to abolish the cane has created a climate of violence and fear in schools. Corporal punishment should be re-introduced to restore order and teach children the difference between right and wrong.

I am glad to learn that indiscipline is not a problem here. However, parents must not shirk their responsibility in ensuring that their children are well behaved and do not mix with bad company.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Headmistress, teachers, staff and parents for another sucessful year.