WE can make a difference in whatever we do if we believe in it, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow told the youths.
Chow said this when he attended the ‘Penang Youth Volunteers Appreciation Night’ at St Giles The Wembley Hotel today.
He said the programme’s slogan, ‘We make a difference’, could inspire people to make a difference to the country and themselves.
“I believe that we can make a difference in whatever we do. And before that, we must believe that we can make a difference.
“Nelson Mandela once said, ‘We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference’.
“This is a motivation for us to adopt a positive attitude,” Chow said in his speech at the event.
He thanked the Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC) for its efforts in promoting the Penang Youth Volunteer programme.
“The PYDC has organised programmes with various parties including government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), schools and educational institutions.
“The ‘Penang Youth Volunteers Appreciation Night’ is held to appreciate members who have given their strong commitment.
“I want to thank the 4,000 over volunteers for taking part in the programme (Penang Youth Volunteer),” he added.
During the appreciation night, a total of 159 volunteers of the Penang Youth Volunteer programme were recognised for their excellent contributions to the community.
They have completed more than 10 hours of service in a period of one year, which is from May 2022 to May 2023.
From the total, 88 volunteers who had contributed 15 hours and more in a year received a BP Health Care package worth RM552.
The top five volunteers were also awarded the Excellent Contribution Award.
State Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee thanked the volunteers for contributing their time, energy and knowledge to help the community without expecting anything in return.
“Continue helping the community,” he said.
Also present were PYDC general manager Dr Gwee Sai Ling, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi, state Department of Youth and Sports director Mozakir Buyong Mokhtar, Penang Youth Council director Hafiz Ali Mohd Anuar and other dignitaries.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat