6TH INPENANG INTERNATIONAL AWARDS 2023
SPEECH BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW
THE CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG
6TH INPENANG INTERNATIONAL AWARDS 2023
22ND JULY 2023 | SATURDAY
Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak
Penang State Governor
Saudara Yeoh Soon Hin
Caretaker EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE) of Penang
Yang Dihormati Dato Mohd Shuhaily Bin Mohd Zain
Chief Police Officer of Kuala Lumpur
YBhg. Dato’ Ir. Rajendran P. Anthony
Mayor of Penang Island City Council (MBPP)
YBhg Dato’ Chng Huck Theng
Founding President of CHT Awards
YBhg. Tan Sri Dato Seri Tan Khoon Hai
Chairman of Penang Chinese Town Hall
YBhg. Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah
President & Group Chief Executive Officer of AFFINBANK Berhad
YBrs. En Nazri Othman
Executive Director of the Group Community Banking of AFFINBANK Berhad
YBrs. Mr Tan Ka Kin
Managing Director of BMW Tian Siang Premium Auto
YBrs. Mr Liu Zhen Hua
General Manager of China Southern Airlines
YBrs. Ms Tiffany Fu
Assistant Brand Manager of The Hour Glass
Yang Dihormati Senior Assistant Commissioner Rahimi Rais
Representative of the Chief Police Officer of Penang
Members of CHTNetwork,
Distinguished Guests,
Members of the Media,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Tonight, we gather here at the 6th INPENANG International Awards to celebrate the brilliance and innovation that define our beloved state. I am honoured to stand before you, proud of the achievements of our exceptional individuals and the indomitable spirit that courses through Penang's veins.
Before we proceed, let me take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to the organizing team for their tireless dedication in making this event possible. I would also like to extend my deep appreciation to Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak, our esteemed Penang State Governor, for gracing us with his presence and adding further prestige to this remarkable gathering.
Penang, a vibrant melting pot of diverse cultures and ideas, has woven an extraordinary tapestry of exploration and progress throughout its rich history. The journey of our honourees tonight reflects the unwavering commitment of those who embraced this spirit, turning dreams into reality and leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.
Their accomplishments resonate far beyond our borders, making them proud ambassadors of Penang's ingenuity and resourcefulness. Let us take this moment to celebrate their international acclaim and draw inspiration from their success to propel us all towards greater heights.
As we honour their achievements, let us also recognize our shared responsibility to nurture the spirit of innovation and determination that has fuelled their success. Their success stories will serve as guiding lights for the aspiring talents of tomorrow, inspiring the next generation of leaders to embrace their potential and carry forward the legacy of excellence that defines our state.
Tuan Yang Terutama Tun, Ladies and Gentlemen,
As the Chief Minister of Penang, I am filled with pride witnessing the growth and resilience of our people, especially in the face of challenging times like the recent Covid-19 pandemic. Our united efforts during this global crisis have shown the strength of our community and the unwavering determination within each Penangite. In times of adversity, we have shone brightly, supporting one another, protecting our loved ones, and propelling our state towards a brighter future.
Tonight, I am delighted to share some remarkable statistics that showcase the growth and resilience of Penang during these challenging times. From 2018 to 2022, our state's total GDP reached an impressive RM 489.6 billion, with a total export value of 1,697.3 billion. Furthermore, we secured a total approved manufacturing investment of RM 126.7 billion, with an all-time high state record of RM76.2 billion in 2021. These figures, I must say, are a testament to the dedication and spirit of our people.
As we celebrate the brilliance and innovation that grace our beloved state, let us also remember that true success lies in sharing the benefits of progress with all members of our society, as outlined in the Penang2030 vision. Hence, as we move forward, let us double up our efforts to create an ecosystem that fosters opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, to reach their full potential.
I am confident that with the united support and commitment of every Penangite coupled with a strong and stable government, Penang will continue to rise as a beacon of progress and a symbol of unity and diversity. If entrusted with the mandate to govern Penang for the next five years, together, we shall build a future that leaves a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Our vision for Penang is crystal clear: to create ‘A Family-focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’ by 2030. However, we cannot achieve this vision alone; we need the collective support of every Penangite to build a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous Penang that future generations will be proud to call home.
Having said that, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the award recipients tonight. Your achievements epitomize the very essence of Penang's spirit, and you serve as role models for us all. And once again, I commend Dato’ Chng Huck Theng and the CHTNetwork team for their remarkable efforts in orchestrating this prestigious award ceremony.
Let us continue to foster collaboration, unity, and innovation, for it is through our collective efforts that we will unlock the full potential of Penang.
With that, I thank you all, and may we continue to shine as a beacon of brilliance and innovation in the years to come.