Ahmad Fuzi (seated centre, in batik shirt) with Chow (on his right) and other guests being entertained by the lion dance troupe at the open house. — Photos: ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
THE road to nationwide transformation is long and reaching its finish line requires the collective effort of all citizens, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
“Only by working together can the nation overcome challenges and move towards a stronger and more prosperous future.
“Despite the challenges of the past year, 2025 is set to be a year of opportunities and hope,” he said in his speech at the Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH) Lunar New Year open house in George Town.
Adding that racial harmony was the cornerstone of national development, Chow said understanding and tolerance were key to fostering unity and mutual respect among all communities in Malaysia’s multicultural society.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the unity government has adhered to the principle that no race, religion or group should be marginalised.
“Policies and resource distribution should cater to the well-being of all communities to ensure equal opportunities for everyone,” he said.
Chow praised PCTH for its long-standing contributions to politics, economy, culture and education in the state.
“In the new year, I am sure that PCTH will continue to contribute to cultural and economic development.
“I hope that the Penang2030 vision will continue to serve as a bridge to unite the Chinese community and strengthen cooperation with other ethnic groups in building this blueprint for the future,” he added.
Chow said the goal was to formulate better policies and ensure effective implementation to bring tangible benefits to Penangites.
PCTH chairman Tan Sri Tan Khoon Hai in his opening address said the organisation’s commitment to serving the community would continue in the new year.
“We aim to enhance our services and increase investments in education and cultural programmes to nurture talent and preserve cultural heritage.
“Last year, PCTH donated 56 smart interactive screens worth RM900,000 to vernacular schools across Penang.
“We plan to donate another 100 smart interactive screens in February in collaboration with the Penang Governor’s Charity Foundation.
“This RM1.6mil initiative will benefit various local schools,” he shared.
Some 500 people attended the annual open house where they were entertained by traditional dances and treated to lunch.
Also present were Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, Chinese Consul-General in Penang Zhou Youbin, Penang state assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, Human Resources Minister and Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim, Deputy Finance Minister and Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng and PCTH advisors including Tan Sri Lim Gait Tong and Datuk Seri Khoo Teck Hock.