“DARKNESS INTO LIGHT” FUN WALK

SPEECH BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW
THE CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG
“DARKNESS INTO LIGHT” FUN WALK
25TH MAY 2024 | THE SHIP CAMPUS

Mr. Arvind Gopinath
The District Governor Elect of Rotary District 3300

Ms. Thillai Nayagi
President of the Rotary Club of Butterworth

Mr. Columba Mcgarvey
The Vice President of Operations, Dexcom

Mr. Balan Krishnan
The Senior Director of APAC Human Resources, Dexcom

Senior Representatives of the Sponsors from Pentamaster, Plexus, Jabil and Greatech,

Senior Representatives of the Ship Campus,

Members of the Rotary Club Butterworth,

Members of Jabatan Psikiatri dan Kesihatan Mental Hospital Bukit Mertajam,

Representatives of Befrienders, Women’s Centre for Change, Sneham and Minda D’Home.

Members of the First Aid teams and all supporting organisations,

Distinguished guests,

Dear participants,

A very good morning to all of you.

 
It is an honour for me to be here today, amidst this beautiful morning for the “Darkness into Light” Fun Walk, organized by the Rotary Club of Butterworth. The name of this event, “Darkness into Light,” is not just a metaphor for the early hour at which we gather but a profound symbol of hope and renewal. It reflects the journey many of us take from the shadows of mental health challenges into the light of understanding, support, and recovery.

Today’s walk is more than a physical activity; it is a statement that mental health matters, and that we stand united in support of one another. Mental health is a critical aspect of our well-being, often overshadowed by the demands of daily life, and this event shines a necessary light on its importance.

This event aligns perfectly with our Penang2030 vision to transform Penang into ‘A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’. A crucial aspect of this vision is promoting social inclusiveness and a healthy, resilient society to enhance liveability and quality of life. By raising awareness about mental health and encouraging community participation, we are taking concrete steps towards realizing this vision.

Accordingly, I extend my sincere gratitude to the Rotary Club of Butterworth for spearheading this crucial awareness campaign, as well as, to the generous sponsors, namely Dexcom, Pentamaster, Plexus, Jabil, and Greatech for their invaluable support in making this event a success. Your contributions are not just financial; they represent a commitment to fostering a healthier community.

Additionally, my heartfelt thanks goes to the Ship Campus for hosting us and to the various NGOs and the Ministry of Health for their involvement. The presence of organizations such as Sneham, Befrienders, the Women’s Centre for Change, and Persatuan Minda D’Home underscores the vital role of community and compassion in addressing mental health challenges.

Further to that, I am pleased to learn that over 400 walkers have registered for this event, which will take us through the scenic Batu Kawan Industrial Park and back to this campus, covering a distance of 6 kilometers. This impressive turnout is a clear indication of the growing awareness and commitment to mental health in our community. I hope this marks the beginning of many such activities, fostering a healthier and more active community in Batu Kawan.

The State Government truly appreciates such initiatives and will continue to support them through our various agencies. Mental health is a priority, and we are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels supported and valued. With that said, I encourage the organizer and sponsors involved today to consider expanding this event in the future to reach even more people and to further spread the crucial message of mental health awareness.

To all walkers, as you embrace the fresh air of Batu Kawan and witness the sunrise, let it serve as a reminder of new beginnings and the hope that each day brings. May this event be a catalyst for ongoing conversations about mental health, spreading awareness, understanding, and support in our communities. Let us carry the light of awareness forward, not just today, but every day.

With these thoughts in mind, it is my great pleasure to officially flag off the “Darkness into Light” Fun Walk. I thank you all for your participation and dedication to this important cause.

Have a wonderful and meaningful walk!