THE Penang government is dedicated to achieving zero hardcore poverty by June 1 this year, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, when asked about the matter today, said the target set by the prime minister is attainable.
He cited the state government’s consistent prioritisation of assistance for the low-income group and those below the hardcore poverty line.
“During the Penang Development Briefing 2024 in Komtar yesterday, I was told that there are only around 150 families classified under the hardcore poverty category in the state.
“So, when the prime minister heard this, considering the small number involved, he instructed relevant Federal agencies to support the Penang government in meeting the stipulated deadline.
“On behalf of the Penang government, we are confident that we can reach the deadline and help this group to move out from the hardcore poverty category.
“Once we do that, we can then declare Penang as a state with zero hardcore poverty,” he said.
Chow also announced that the Perak-Penang Water Project and Juru–Sungai Dua elevated highway project were also discussed during the meeting yesterday.
“I’m pleased to announce that these two projects are now being discussed further in detail by relevant ministries.
“For the Perak-Penang Water Project, positive discussions are currently underway concerning various technical aspects.
“As for the Juru–Sungai Dua elevated highway project, we hope we will hear some good news soon, either through special funds from the Federal Government or via a public-private partnership, to facilitate its implementation,” he said.
Chow also thanked Anwar for his special attention to Penang concerning the development of various projects in the state.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat