OVER 200,000 visitors from Penang and neighbouring states flocked to the Northern Zone Madani Rakyat programme held at Tapak Pesta Pulau Pinang in Sungai Nibong over the three-day event, concluding today.
Running from Friday (May 3) from 9am to 10 pm, this programme marks a continuation of the Madani government’s first-anniversary celebration. It offers a special platform for the community to access information about 196 services provided by Federal and state governments and their agencies.
These services range from reduced compound rates by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), registration for Rahmah Cash Aid (STR), to helmet exchanges. Additionally, visitors enjoyed exhibitions of government assets, mobile services such as dental check-ups and treatments, blood donation campaigns, recycling services, massage therapy, beauty services, and open job interviews.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who officiated the closing ceremony, expressed his appreciation to those who came from far and near.
“It is truly heartening to witness the overwhelming response to the three-day Northern Zone Madani Rakyat programme.
“The immense support from the people of Penang and neighbouring states like Kedah, Perlis, and Perak underscores its significance.
“With a wide spectrum of 196 services across various ministries, including state agencies, the programme is committed to addressing the diverse needs of our citizens.
“Beyond being a mere event, it serves as a platform to highlight ongoing and future government initiatives, fostering greater understanding and engagement within our society,” Anwar said in his speech.
Anwar also thanked all the related ministries and various Federal and state agencies for making the programme a success.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, in attendance, praised the collaborative efforts of the Federal Government, relevant ministries, and state agencies for ensuring the seamless execution of the three-day programme.
“This platform serves as a stage to highlight both current and upcoming government initiatives, promoting deeper understanding and involvement within our society.
“We hope it becomes an annual event due to its positive impact on the community,” he said.
Chow expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for greenlighting several crucial infrastructure projects for Penang, such as the Penang LRT and the expansion of Penang International Airport, among others.
Emphasising the significance of cooperation between the Federal Government and the state government, he stressed the importance of adhering to established timelines in implementing planned development and infrastructure projects, ensuring that the populace can reap their benefits in due time.
On a separate matter, Anwar also announced that the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah and the Perak government have agreed to the Perak-Penang water deal.
He outlined that water supply to Penang would be facilitated through the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park, extending to Seberang Perai.
“We are pleased to announce that Tuanku Sultan Nazrin and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad have agreed to facilitate water supply from Sungai Perak, flowing through the green industry of Kerian, extending at least to Seberang Perai.
“The first phase will reach Seberang Perai including Nibong Tebal and Sungai Bakap,” he said, adding that more information regarding this matter would be announced soon.
Among the distinguished attendees at the programme today were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali, Penang State Secretary Datuk Rosli Isa, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, state Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim and former Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who is also the Bagan MP.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar and Law Suun Ting
Video by Alissala Thian