THE Penang government is committed to strengthening racial unity among communities of various faiths while advancing its ambitious mega-infrastructure projects.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the importance of several key initiatives, including the expansion of the Penang International Airport (PIA), the reclamation project at Penang Silicon Island, the proposed Mutiara LRT Line, and the Juru-Sungai Dua elevated highway.
Chow, however, stressed the need to prioritise the welfare of the underprivileged.
“We strive to continue programmes that benefit the society at large, despite the state’s limited budget,” he said in his speech during the Christmas celebration open house organised by Perai state constituency at St Chastan & Imbert Church today.
During the event, Chow highlighted the vital factor of unity in a harmonious society, noting that respecting each other regardless of race and religion is crucial in building stronger communities.
As a first-term Batu Kawan MP, Chow acknowleged the challenges of serving a constituency that spans Perai, Bukit Tengah, Bukit Tambun and Nibong Tebal.
“I pledge to solve the local issues in my constituency. I am also privileged to serve under the current administration of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who was born and bred in Penang.”
He expressed gratitude for the Federal Government’s approval of several infrastructure projects under Anwar’s leadership.
State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu was pleased with Chow’s presence at the open house despite his hectic schedule.
“I will continue the tradition of organising open houses for various festivals in my constituency,” he said.
Joining the event were the church’s parish priest Reverend Father Dominic Santhiyagu, Parish Pastoral Council member Sharmen Glenn Balachandran, Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) Building Department deputy director Moey Sui Min, and Perai police station chief Surestaran Kawander Pillai.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud