AN additional state seat for the Opposition in the State Legislative Assembly in Penang would not bring any changes, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
Speaking to hundreds of people at a temple dinner in Jalan Badak Mati, Sungai Bakap, Chow urged the voters to vote for the Unity government’s candidate, Dr Joohari Ariffin, better known as ‘Cikgu Ariffin’ tomorrow.
“In the State Legislative Assembly currently, we have 29 state assemblymen from the Unity government while the remaining 10 are from Perikatan Nasional (PN), following the demise of former Sungai Bakap assemblyman Nor Zamri Latiff.
“The 10 state seats held by the Opposition are already sufficient for them to play their check and balance role. Under the Unity government leadership, the state government will continue to strive for the betterment of the people.
“We hope that we will be given an opportunity to strengthen our position and deliver the necessary development to the people,” he said during the Kuan Yin Hoot Chor dinner.
Chow also countered Perikatan Nasional election director Datuk Seri Sanusi Nor, who had urged the electorate to vote for his coalition’s candidate to bolster checks and balances.
Highlighting the state government’s achievements since 2008, Chow pointed to the significant progress in investment, welfare, tourism, and others.
“I believe Penangites can see for themselves how the state has fared over the past 16 years,” he said.
Apart from this, Chow mentioned several planned projects, including the Perak-Penang water infrastructure project, LRT Penang Laluan Mutiara project, and Penang Hill Cable Car project, with works expected to begin soon.
Chow also praised Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his ability to lift the nation to greater heights despite having administered for only 18 months.
Chow pointed out that a Sungai Bakap forum would be established if Dr Joohari Ariffin wins, adding it would serve as a platform for the constituents to efficiently air their complaints.
Among the attendees at the dinner were Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (also Bintulu MP), Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang (also Tanjong Malim MP), Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin, Jawi assemblyman H’ng Mooi Lye, and Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik.