Time to fulfil high expectations

NOW that the state elections are over, stakeholders in Penang are hopeful that the new exco line-up will get down to business straight away.

While the public do not expect miracles, expectations are high.

Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association president Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai said in view of the increased investments in the state, industry leaders were calling for better infrastructure and traffic management.

“The Penang Transport Master Plan is seen as a long-term solution but in the meantime, we need short-term plans to alleviate the traffic issues,” he said.

Skilled workers at a manufacturing plant in Batu Kawan. — Filepic

Siew Hai also hoped Penang would continue to bring in high-value investments while nurturing its pool of talents.

“We need to strengthen the business eco-system as we are competing with neighbouring states to attract skilled workers.

“More students need to be inspired to pursue science and engineering.

Tourists and holidaymakers at Armenian Street during the w

“Upon graduation, they can find good jobs in Penang as companies are expected to start hiring again next year,” he added.

It was reported that Penang recorded RM13.7bil in approved manufacturing investments last year.

According to Malaysian Investment Development Authority, Penang received RM9.7bil in foreign direct investments and RM4bil in domestic direct investments.

A sikh bridal ritual called Sangeet Ki Raat showcased at George Town Heritage celebration. — Filepic

Wong also said the newly formed state government should continue to be “business-friendly” in helping the association members grow and save resources.

“We formed a good relationship with the former line-up and look forward to a good collaboration with the new team as well,” he said.

Penang Tourist Guide Association chairman Clement Liang said Penang, as a top tourist destination, badly needed improved infrastructure.

Fishermen unloading their catch at the Sungai Udang jetty in Nibong Tebal.

“Locals and tourists want to move safely in the town area.

“The five-foot-ways should be clear of obstacles.

“Besides cleaner public toilets, we also need parking bays for tour buses at popular sites.

“As George Town was accorded Unesco World Heritage Site status in 2008, we also need to promote sustainable tourism,” said Liang, who welcomed the appointment of Paya Terubong assemblyman Wong Hon Wai as Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman.

Women taking part in a Zumba event for International Women’s Day in Penang. The government will continue to promote gender equality as part of the Penang2030 vision. — Filepic

Sahabat Alam Malaysia president Meenakshi Raman said the non-governmental organisation (NGO) was expecting someone familiar with environmental matters to be in charge of the environment portfolio.

“It seems the chosen candidate was involved in housing development.

“We hope he will protect the environment in Penang and not be too pro-development,” she said.

A sofa, table and chair blocking five-foot way in Lebuh China at George Town, Penang. ( August 19, 2023 ) – CHAN BOON KAI/The Star

The new housing and environment committee chairman is Perai assemblyman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo, who was a deputy chief executive officer of a large property development firm.

Earlier, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow defended his appointment, saying Sundarajoo was an asset to Penang because of his experience in the property sector.

Ong: Currently, there are only four women in the state assembly.

Penang Women’s Develop-ment Corporation chief executive officer Ong Bee Leng said the organisation was looking forward to achieving a minimum target of 30% women representatives at the state assembly.

Tourists and locals in George Town have to negotiate obstacles like tables and chairs placed on walkways.

“We have never exceeded 20%. We wish to promote gender inclusiveness to ensure that the needs of women are addressed.

“Affirmative action includes the Top-Up Women-Only Additional Seats (TWOAS) initiative in 2020,” she said.

Ong said TWOAS followed the implementation of a 30% target for women representation at the Village Community Management Councils (MPKK), Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Seberang Prai City Council (MBSP) and other state agencies.

Liang: Penang as a top tourist destination needs improved infrastructure.

“Currently, there are only four women representatives (10%) out of the 40 members of the state assembly,” she said.

As for the sports fraternity, Penang Sports Council director Harry Chai Heng Hua hoped the new exco member in charge of sports would bring renewed energy.

“We are preparing for Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak next year.

Siew Hai: I hope the new state government will be business-friendly.

“Penang will have representatives in 37 sports,” he said.

He is hoping for more funds to organise sports programmes.

“We have to work with many parties like parents, teachers, venue providers, coaches, associations, the media and sponsors.

“I will discuss matters with the newly appointed sports exco member Daniel Gooi,” said Chai.

Malaysia Hindu Sangam vice-chairman A. Tharman said the association was looking forward to more inter-cultural collaborations to promote unity.

Chai hopes the new sports leadership will bring renewed energy.

“I hope the new exco members will encourage more platforms for intercultural exchanges and we welcome more initiatives in the spirit of unity,” he said.

Seberang Prai Fishermen Association chairman Mahadi Md Rodzi said agrotechnology, food security and cooperative development committee chairman Fahmi Zainol must continue the good work of his predecessor Dr Norlela Ariffin.

“He must always be on the ground to attend to the problems of the fishermen,” said Mahadi.