THE Penang government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the well-being of its people, particularly the Muslim community, through various high-impact initiatives and programmes.
Deputy Chief Minister I Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, who oversees the Islamic Development, Education, and National Unity portfolio, stated that the Agenda Pembangunan Agama Islam 2030 (APAI2030) is a key pillar in advancing the socio-economic development of the Muslim community.
“A major focus of this agenda is economic empowerment, spearheaded by the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) and its agencies.
“This initiative is not only aimed at improving the living standards of the Muslim community but also plays a crucial role in strengthening its economic position.
“This is achieved through the expansion of the halal industry ecosystem and strategic collaborations with corporate entities and local businesses,” Dr Mohamad said.
He added that such efforts would create more opportunities and enhance the participation of Bumiputera entrepreneurs in the economic sector, aligning with the Penang2030 vision to build a progressive, dynamic, and competitive society.
Dr Mohamad was speaking at a special handover ceremony at Sunshine Central in Air Itam recently.
The event was also attended by Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, Sunshine Amanjaya Sdn Bhd director Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rafique Karim, and Suiwah Corporation Berhad managing director Datuk Hwang Thean Long.
During the event, Dr Mohamad highlighted that three mosques and one surau in the Air Itam and Paya Terubong constituencies had been selected to receive shopping vouchers from Sunshine as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative.
“This CSR initiative reflects our collective responsibility and support for the local community,” he said.
The beneficiaries of this initiative are Masjid Bandar Baru Air Itam, Masjid Jamek Al-Qadree Ayer Itam, Masjid Jamek Paya Terubong and Surau Kampung Melayu.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting