GEORGE TOWN – Outgoing Penang DAP chief, Chow Kon Yeow, has called on party members and leaders to prioritise the interests of the party and the people above their own personal ambitions.
Delivering his final speech as the state DAP chairman after 25 years in the role, Chow reflected on the party’s significant transformation under his leadership. He noted its journey from being in opposition during Barisan Nasional’s rule to taking control of the state in 2008.
Chow emphasised the economic progress Penang has made under DAP’s governance, in collaboration with its partners in Pakatan Rakyat and later, Pakatan Harapan. He highlighted the state’s various infrastructure and development projects as key markers of this advancement.
He also spoke of DAP’s remarkable growth in Penang, from just 20 branches to nearly 300. The party, he said, has strengthened organisationally, financially, and in terms of public support and visibility.
The Padang Kota assemblyman, who also serves as the Penang Chief Minister, stressed that neither the party nor the state government could have achieved as much without the people’s unwavering support.
“As I hand over the leadership baton today, I want to urge all of us to put your interests of the party and the people above our own interests.
“We have achieved much, and we must continue to persevere with dedication and commitment.
“We must be guided by the party’s vision and mission and respect the people.
“Do not take things for granted and stay true to people’s struggle,” said Chow at Penang DAP’ convention that is taking place at Spice Arena complex in Bayan Baru.
Chow expressed his gratitude to the party for entrusting him with the leadership of Penang DAP for 25 years, after having served as the chapter’s secretary for eight years prior. He reminded the 1,460 delegates present that their votes would shape the party’s future and keep it relevant as the party of choice to lead the state government.
“I am glad to hand over a party that I believe is much better today than 25 years ago,” he added.
The delegates are set to elect a 15-member committee to lead the state party chapter for the 2024-2027 term.
The Penang DAP election has been rife with speculation, with rumours suggesting that Bukit Mertajam MP and Minister of Human Resources, Steven Sim, is expected to take the reins, while Deputy Minister of Finance, Lim Hui Ying, is likely to retain her position as secretary for a second term.
This “Sim-Hui Ying” leadership combination is reportedly supported by party secretary-general Anthony Loke and is believed to have the backing of the party leadership. – September 22, 2024