EDUCATING the public on the importance of safe and responsible driving remains one of the biggest challenges for the Road Transport Department (JPJ), says Penang director Zulkifly Ismail.
Speaking after the state investiture ceremony at Dewan Sri Pinang in George Town, Zulkifly said tackling this issue required public cooperation and continuous campaigning.
He added that the Bintang Cemerlang Negeri (BCN) medal he received from Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib would motivate him further.
“This award will inspire me to perform my duties with even greater dedication and excellence,” said Zulkifly, 56, who has served as the state JPJ director for two years.
Also honoured was Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) director- general Datuk Seri Zulfikri Osman, who received the Darjah Gemilang Pangkuan Negeri (DGPN).
“Although it was conferred on me, I see it as recognition of what Mara has accomplished here, particularly in education and entrepreneurship to assist the bumiputra community,” said Perlis-born Zulfikri, who has been with Mara for 35 years.
“Our core responsibility is to uplift the socio-economic status of the bumiputra community.
“For Mara, sustainability begins with knowledge. That is why education remains our top priority.”
He added that the second pillar was entrepreneurship, where it provides a complete ecosystem to help entrepreneurs succeed.
He said the ecosystem encompassed training, business advisory services, financing, commercial premises, factories and other facilities needed to help businesses grow.
“I believe Mara is the only government agency that offers such a comprehensive ecosystem for development.”
Meanwhile, Malaysia Hindudharma Mamandram Penang chairman Thanabalan Nanda Kumar, who was conferred the Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK), expressed his gratitude for the recognition.
“I have served at both the Penang state and national levels, working alongside volunteers, community leaders, the Penang Hindu Endowments Board and government agencies to uplift society and preserve our cultural and spiritual heritage,” he said.
Thanabalan said he had always been guided by the principles of selfless service, unity and compassion and remained dedicated to continuing his work.
The ceremony also recognised Penang Newspaper and Booksellers Association (Penba) chairman M. Murugesu who was conferred the Darjah Johan Negeri (DJN), while his deputy M. Selvam received the Pingat Jasa Masyarakat (PJM).
The awards recognise the duo’s longstanding contributions to the newspaper and bookselling industry, alongside their dedicated service to the community.
A total of 101 people were conferred state orders, while 1,120 received state stars and medals during the four-day ceremony.
