PENANG DAP secretary Lim Hui Ying paid tribute to Chow Kon Yeow for his invaluable services in laying a strong foundation for DAP to form the state government in 2008 and retain power until today.
Speaking at the Penang DAP State Ordinary Convention at Setia SPICE Arena, Hui Ying described the occasion as historic as Chow announced he would not be contesting in the DAP Penang State Committee elections after leading the party as state chairman for 25 years, since 1999.
Initially choked with emotion, Hui Ying recovered quickly and said: “Brother Chow has served the party he loves since 1986 when he became the political secretary to the then DAP secretary-general, Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang.
“His leadership and perseverance have been greatly appreciated, especially in strengthening the party in Penang. In 1999, he was appointed as DAP Penang chairman, and in 2008, under his leadership, DAP won 19 seats, forming the state government alongside Pakatan Rakyat coalition partners.
“The history of DAP Penang’s success was not an easy journey. We have experienced challenging moments, from lacking funds to having to go door-to-door campaigning. However, Brother Chow’s spirit never waned, and under his leadership, DAP has opened many opportunities for young people in the party to emerge as leaders, councillors, and elected representatives.
“Additionally, under Brother Chow’s leadership, DAP Penang successfully acquired Wisma DAP on Jalan Rangoon for RM3.5 million in 2012. This building has served as a hub for various party management activities, member programmes, and election campaigns. Highest appreciation to Chow for all his contributions and sacrifices,” Hui Ying said.
The convention proceeded with a video tribute commemorating Chow’s political journey, followed by Penang DAP deputy chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo, who also serves as Chief Minister II, presenting Chow with a souvenir. Hui Ying then presented Chow with a bouquet. Both Hui Ying and Jagdeep hugged Chow, and the crowd responded with a standing ovation.
A total of 1,466 delegates from 296 branches, 70% of the quorum, attended the convention, where 32 candidates contested for 15 posts in the state DAP Committee.
Asked by a reporter how he felt about the occasion, Chow said: “It was a surprise. I was not informed.”
In his farewell speech, Chow urged party members to prioritise the interests of the party and the people above their own.
He expressed his gratitude to the party and members for the privilege of having served as state DAP chairman for the past 25 years. Before that, he had also served as its secretary for eight years.
“We have achieved much, and we must continue to persevere with dedication and commitment. We must be guided by the party’s vision and mission, and always respect the people.
“Do not take things for granted and stay true to the party’s struggle.
“I am glad to hand over a party that I believe is much better today than 25 years ago.
“As you vote today, you are voting for the future of the party, ensuring it remains relevant as the party of choice to continue leading the Penang state government,” Chow said before the delegates cast their votes.
National DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng, in his speech, reminded members of the importance of listening to and working for the rakyat.
“To win power is hard, but to retain power is even harder. We must return to basics and focus on the rakyat’s needs in economic livelihood, education, employment opportunities, healthcare, and digital services. We fail if we stop listening to the rakyat or neglect their needs.
“For this reason, the civil service must also do the same and understand what the voters want,” Guan Eng said in his speech.
National DAP adviser Tan Kok Wai, representing secretary-general Anthony Loke, who is away in China, reflected on the party’s difficult years in the 1995, 1999, and 2004 general elections when DAP won only one seat in Penang. However, he noted, “We did not give up and successfully began to turn the tide and rewrite history.”
He said in the 2008 general election, under the leadership of Guan Eng, DAP succeeded in governing Penang, bringing about transformative changes for the people of Penang. Subsequently, in the 2018 and 2023 elections, Chow took over the baton and under his leadership, Penang’s economic and social development progressed steadily.
“I am heartened that, since the opposition coalition took over the Penang state government 16 years ago, the DAP-led Penang government has consistently met the people’s expectations through good governance.
“We have demonstrated to the people our capability to govern Penang, elevating the state in many aspects. Today, Penang is one of the wealthiest states in Malaysia.
“Looking to the future, our mission in Penang is not only to safeguard our existing achievements but also to scale new heights. The challenges ahead are more complex, and we must continue to maintain our leadership amidst global economic changes, increasing social tensions, and higher public expectations of the government,” Tan said.
Tan urged all party members to unite in good faith and work together for the long-term development of Penang and the welfare of its people.