THE Penang government appreciates the close relationships with the trade organisations and community associations in the state.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who is also the Penang DAP chairman, said he was happy that most organisations in Penang have gone beyond their call of duty to provide services to the people.
“We have seen the Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (PCCC) actively engaging the community in the areas of business, trade, culture, education and charity.
“The PCCC members consist of those from the business groups, trade associations and individuals.
“PCCC has been actively raising issues to the Penang and Federal governments and for the benefit of the community,” Chow said in his speech during the engagement session between Penang DAP delegates and the PCCC representatives at the PCCC building this afternoon.
PCCC president Datuk Seri Hong Yeam Wah said the organisation has over 10,000 members and more than 1,300 youth members.
“PCCC has continuously played an active role in society for the past 119 years since it was established in 1903.
“It is one of the pioneer trade organisations in this region.
“We have come a long way since our inception to be one of the strongest commercial institutions in Malaysia that is recognised by both the public and private sectors,” Hong said in his speech.
The Penang DAP delegates and PCCC representatives also discussed crucial matters during the 90-minute session.
Among the topics discussed were centralised labour quarters (CLQ) and affordable housing.
Earlier, Chow said the Little India arch project is expected to be completed by November this year.
Chow said the proposed arch at the entrance of Little India (Market Street) is currently being constructed by the contractor at the workshop.
“The arch project is expected to be completed by November but we hope it could be ready before Deepavali, so that we can welcome the visitors to Little India during the festivity,” he said during a visit to the Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Micci) Penang’s office in Penang Street.
Chow said the state aspired to be a government that is close to its people.
“We want to be a better government and this is our commitment to Penangites.
“We believe that for the past 15 years we have brought significant changes to Penang and we will try our best to continue bringing changes here.
Micci president Datuk N. Gobalakrishnan said the organisation is the first Indian chamber in the country and was established nearly a century ago.
“Currently, we have about 400 members. Our numbers may be small but we are a strong organisation.
“We thank the state government for its continuous support towards Micci,” he said.
The Penang DAP delegates also visited the Penang Teong Guan Association in Jalan Bagan Serai.
Among the issues discussed were the upcoming Phor Thor Festival, and a prayer session to be held on July 31 (the 3rd Day of the Seventh Lunar Month) to commemorate the ferry fatal tragedy on July 31, 1988.