EFFECTIVE communication and leadership can help individuals excel in their careers, build stronger teams, drive innovation and create economic progress.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow urged the people to continue to speak with passion and from their heart.
“Everyone needs to speak (at any point in life), and public speaking is a vital skill to have and to hone,” he said in his speech during the Toastmasters International District 51 Annual Conference 2023 Gala Dinner at St Giles The Wembley Hotel today.
Chow said giving a speech was part and parcel of his career as a politician.
“At times, we do not even have the time to refer to the speech draft and have to speak off the cuff.
“Toastmasters International can play a crucial role in helping to develop the next generation of high-calibre leaders in Penang.
“It can enhance skills and connections needed to succeed by providing training, mentoring, and networking opportunities,” he said.
Chow also welcomed the delegates who had travelled from afar to visit Penang.
“I am happy to see a healthy mix of local and international delegates who are here in Penang for the Toastmasters International’s 2023 District 51 Annual Conference.
“Take this opportunity to savour our world-famous gastronomic offerings, explore the many tourist attractions within reach, and experience our hospitality,” he said.
Organising chairman KK Lim said Toastmasters International is a good platform for members to grow and thrive.
“Today, we have grown to 180 clubs under District 51,” Lim said.
Toastmasters International District 51 director Chung Chee Yan paid tribute to an accredited and professional speaker and a pioneer of Toastmasters in Malaysia, the late Gerald Green.
The gala dinner also saw a cake-cutting ceremony in celebration of the organisation’s 30 years of success, and the installation of District 51 director-elect 2023-2024 Charles Tan, together with other elected office-bearers.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Siew Chia En