OVER the past three years, the Penang government has been consistently able to bring in investments, create jobs and improve the public infrastructure despite the Covid-19 pandemic.
The pandemic, which started in late 2019, has affected various sectors, such as manufacturing, hospitality and tourism, logistics, and others.
However, the state is still able to do its best for the people’s welfare while weathering the economic storms.
According to Penangite Eugene Khoo, the state has been able to deliver even during the challenging times.
“The influx of investments is a testament to the state’s able leadership and foresight. The more investors, the more job opportunities for the people.
“For instance, US chip giant Intel Corporation is expanding its manufacturing capabilities in advanced semiconductor packaging technology in Penang.
“The Batu Kawan Industrial Park (BKIP) is also booming with the establishment of various multinational corporations (MNCs).
“From what I see, it’s not an easy task for state in the midst of pandemic, and this remarkable feat should be lauded.
“I would give them (state) an 8 over 10 rating. There is, however, still room for improvement,” the property agent told Buletin Mutiara.
Johari Abdul Ghani, who is a visually-impaired masseur in George Town, said he was satisfied with the state government’s performance up to date.
“As usual, there is no 100% perfect track record for any state. But the Penang government, which is spearheaded by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, has done a satisfactory job.
“They have been addressing the pandemic in a systematic manner, which must be lauded.
“Anyway, I hope the state can try to build more disabled-accessible facilities for people like us,” he said, while giving a rating of 7.
Chan Chin Hoo, 34, who is a journalist, believes that the state’s performance has so far been fairly good.
“The construction of Bukit Kukus paired road proves to be one of the initiatives by the state to disperse the traffic volume in Paya Terubong, Balik Pulau and other nearby areas.
“It is laudable by the public and we hope the state can continue with their commitment to assist the people. I would give the state government a 7.5 rating,” he said.
Oong Ren Jie, 30, is impressed with the state government for implementing various beneficial policies, ranging from youth, cultural, arts, heritage, to tourism.
“Our state government is forward thinking and whatever programmes they organise, for the youths for instance, are to transform their lives. I am giving them a 9 over 10 rating.
“One thing I hope the state will do is to resolve the flood issue in Bukit Kukus paired road to ensure a smooth traffic flow for motorists using the elevated highway,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix courtesy of interviewees