THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF A LOVEPENANG SIGNAGE BY THE LIONS CLUB OF GEORGE  TOWN

SPEECH BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW

THE CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG

THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF A LOVEPENANG SIGNAGE BY THE LIONS CLUB OF GEORGE  TOWN

13TH JANUARY 2024

YB Wong Hon Wai

Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy

 

YBhg. Dato’ Cheok Lay Leng

General Manager of Penang Hill Corporation (PHC)

 

Mr. Chuah Guan Leong

President of the Lions Club of George Town

 

Board of Directors of the Lions Club of George Town,

Lion members from near and far,

Distinguished guests,

Members of the media,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning.

Today marks a special occasion as we gather here for the Launching Ceremony of the LovePENANG signage, a symbol of unity, community spirit, and the unwavering dedication of the Lions Club of George Town. It is a profound honour to stand before you and witness the culmination of tireless efforts and a shared commitment to building a brighter and more connected Penang.

The LovePENANG campaign, initiated by the State Government and launched on 10th June 2022, is an embodiment of our collective aspirations to rejuvenate social life and foster a sense of togetherness in the aftermath of the challenging times brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. Today's ceremony, orchestrated by the Lions Club of George Town, signifies a pivotal moment in our journey toward a stronger, more resilient community.

As we unveil the LovePENANG signage, it is not merely an act of revealing a physical symbol but a declaration of our collective commitment to the betterment of Penang. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the broader vision set forth by the Penang2030 Vision, which aims to encourage active community involvement and togetherness as we strive to become ‘A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’ by the year 2030.

Six decades ago, in 1964, the Lions Club of George Town was founded, and today, we honour its legacy of service, compassion, and community building. Over the years, this distinguished club has grown into a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for us all. Their dedication to contributing gazebos, bridges, swimming pools, and other meaningful projects to the people of Penang has left an indelible mark on our landscape.

Beyond physical contributions, the Lions Club of George Town has made lasting impacts on education by building computer labs and extending classrooms for schools. Their commitment to healthcare is also evident through the provision of a mechanical CPR machine for the Red Crescent. Today, as they add the LovePENANG signage to their list of contributions, we are reminded of their enduring commitment to the betterment of our beloved state and its people.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The LovePENANG signage, with its bold colours and striking design, is not just a visual representation but a call to action. It urges us to embrace a harmonious way of living, to preserve our environment, and to actively contribute to the economic growth of Penang. It is a symbol of hope, resilience, and a shared vision for a prosperous future.

Hence, as we embark on this exciting journey, let us internalize its essence - a call for us to come together, support one another, and build a more caring and compassionate community. May the LovePENANG signage be a constant reminder that, regardless of our diverse backgrounds, we are all integral threads in the rich tapestry that makes Penang truly unique.

To our esteemed Lion guests, particularly those from the Lions Club of George Town’s incredible network of 15 twinned Clubs across Asia – from Japan, China, Taiwan, Macau, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Sabah and Sarawak – I invite you to immerse yourselves in the charm of Penang.

Explore the delectable food, partake in captivating walking tours, lounge on pristine beaches, and uncover the rich heritage treasures that dot our landscape. Consider this not merely a celebration but an opportunity to immerse yourselves in the unique experiences that Penang has to offer. I hope you find the warmth and hospitality of our people as delightful as the beauty of our island.

In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Lions Club of George Town for their six decades of unwavering service and commitment to making a positive impact. Your contributions have transformed Penang into a better place for all its residents, leaving a legacy that will be felt for generations to come. May the LovePENANG signage and the spirit it represents continue to shine bright in the hearts of everyone, inspiring love, unity, and service.

Thank you.

Pejabat Ketua Menteri Pulau Pinang Tingkat 28, KOMTAR, 10502, George Town, Pulau Pinang