THE Batu Kawan DAP parliamentary committee is working to establish three new branches in the constituency, bringing the total to 22 branches.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who is also the DAP national vice-chairman and Batu Kawan MP, stated that the addition is necessary to better serve the constituents of the expansive Batu Kawan parliamentary constituency, which comprises Bukit Tambun, Perai, and Bukit Tengah state constituencies.
“Batu Kawan is a large parliamentary constituency, and it is crucial for us to expand our presence to ensure we can serve the people more effectively,” Chow said.
“The Batu Kawan DAP parliamentary committee, which I chair, has already submitted an application to the Penang DAP state committee for approval,” he announced during a townhall session held at Iconic Point, Batu Kawan.
The session was attended by prominent party leaders, including Human Resources Minister and Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim Chee Keong, who also chairs the Penang DAP; state DAP deputy chairman Ramkarpal Singh; vice-chairman Zairil Khir Johari; assistant organising secretary Lee Wei Seang; state publicity secretary Joshua Woo Sze Zeng; assistant publicity secretary Soon Lip Chee; state political education director Daniel Gooi Zi Sen; and committee members Ooi Yong Wooi, Teh Chuann Yen, and Foo Yu Keong.
Sim underscored the importance of townhall sessions in fostering communication between party leadership and grassroots members.
“This is the sixth townhall we have conducted since I became chairman of the Penang DAP state committee a few months ago.
“These sessions are essential for engaging grassroots members, understanding local issues, and fostering collaboration.
“They provide a platform for us to listen, exchange ideas, and align our strategies with the needs of the people,” he said.
Sim highlighted the close coordination between the Penang DAP state committee and the state government under Chow’s leadership, emphasising the importance of unified efforts in addressing public concerns.
He also reaffirmed his strong support for Chow to complete his term as Chief Minister.
During the session, Sim announced the formation of a dedicated Indian bureau within the Penang DAP, led by Ramkarpal.
“This bureau reflects our commitment to inclusivity and the welfare of all communities.
“It will focus on addressing the challenges faced by the Indian community in the state and developing solutions to improve their quality of life,” Sim said.
The townhall addressed a variety of pressing issues, including rising medical costs, challenges surrounding foreign workers, the high cost of living, employment rates, traffic congestion, political strategy, sports facilities, and foreign investments.