CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow has called on all DAP members to prioritise unity to achieve greater milestones for the state and the nation this year.
Speaking at the 2025 Tanjong Appreciation Dinner at SJKC Shang Wu, Chow highlighted that history has shown how internal discord in a party or coalition often signals trouble.
“When a party or coalition experiences internal problems, it raises warning signs that we are unable to consolidate our strength to form a strong team capable of serving the people effectively,” said Chow, who also serves as the Batu Kawan MP and the Padang Kota assemblyman.
Chow emphasised the need to uphold the party’s spirit of struggle despite any challenges, whether external or internal.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that, regardless of our positions or where we serve – be it at the branch level or in Parliament – the DAP and Pakatan Harapan must always remain strong and united. This is essential to instil confidence in the people that we are still capable of being a better government,” Chow added.
He reminded attendees that the party’s achievements are built on the support of voters and the public.
“They still believe in the party’s struggles and principles in ensuring the people are happy and peaceful while the state continues to develop and progress. Without their support, we risk having an unstable government, which would impact our ability to deliver effective governance to the people,” he cautioned.
Chow also expressed his gratitude to Deputy Finance Minister and Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying for hosting the event and acknowledged the contributions of party members to DAP’s success.
“Let’s encourage one another to strive harder in 2025,” he concluded.
Lim Hui Ying, the Deputy Finance Minister and Tanjong MP, expressed her appreciation to the MPKK, JPWK, JBPP, Madani Community, and the service centres of Padang Kota, Komtar, and Pengkalan Kota constituencies for their unwavering support.
“The past year has been filled with challenges but also remarkable achievements. Our united and goal-oriented team has successfully implemented numerous initiatives despite facing complex issues.
“From maintaining and enhancing heritage and community facilities to organising successful events, none of these accomplishments would have been possible without everyone’s dedication and hard work,” she said.
Hui Ying thanked former Tanjong MPs Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang and Chow Kon Yeow for laying the foundation for DAP’s growth in the constituency. She also commended former Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, now DAP’s national chairman, for transforming Penang from a “garbage state” into one of ASEAN’s cleanest cities.
“In just five years, under Chow’s leadership, Penang has attracted investments exceeding RM200 billion. This economic success lays a solid foundation for the future. The visionary leadership of our Chief Ministers inspires current party members and provides invaluable opportunities for the younger generation to learn and grow,” she said.
Hui Ying also acknowledged the contributions of other party veterans whose wisdom and sacrifices have been pivotal to DAP’s growth.
In his speech, Guan Eng reminded party leaders and representatives of the importance of listening to the rakyat and being accountable.
He also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for approving two mega projects for the state – the Penang International Airport expansion and the Mutiara LRT projects.
“We are going to face more challenges this year, but also more opportunities for the people of Penang,” he said.
Kit Siang stressed the importance of patience in achieving national reforms and cautioned against the spread of fake news on social media.
Others who spoke at the dinner were Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng and Penang Island City Council councillors Alan Lim Wei Jun and Benji Ang.
The dinner was attended by several state leaders, including Jelutong MP RSN Rayer, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen, organising chairman Por Cheng Han and several city councillors.