Chow credits BN for being ‘pillar’ of political stability

GEORGE TOWN: Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow has credited Barisan Nasional for being a “pillar of political stability” in both the federal and state governments over the past two years.

Chow praised BN’s component parties, including MIC, for their efforts in supporting his Penang administration, particularly during the 2023 state election.

The former Penang DAP chief said the collaboration between Pakatan Harapan, BN and other parties had further bolstered the unity government.

“With political stability, the government has been able to carry out its responsibilities effectively, ensuring social and economic development while improving the people’s quality of life.

“We have seen the confidence inspired by our prime minister through the stability and recognition this government has achieved, both nationally and internationally,” he said at Penang MIC’s Deepavali open house here tonight.

Chow also credited Musa Sheikh Fadzir, the Penang BN and Umno chief, for his leadership and cooperation in strengthening ties with PH.

“The results we achieved during the 2023 state election were a testament to the collaboration and unity between parties,” he added.

During the state polls last year, PH-BN won 29 seats while PN won 11 in the 40-seat state assembly. DAP won all 19 seats it contested, PKR won seven of the 13 seats contested, while Amanah retained one out of two seats.

BN won two of the six seats it vied for. Sungai Acheh assemblyman Rashidi Zinol was made a member of Chow’s state executive council.

Chow said there was a need for continued and greater cooperation between PH and BN to face future challenges, including the next general election in three years’ time.

Separately, he said he was honoured to be part of Penang MIC’s Deepavali celebrations, acknowledging that it was its first such event in 15 years.

State MIC chief J Dhinagaran and party members surprised Chow with an elaborate flower garland and celebrated his 65th birthday, which was yesterday.

Also present was Chow’s predecessor, DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng.