PENANG Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the Deepavali symbol of light reigning over darkness is a firm reminder that the state must continue striving to improve the lives of the diverse communities here.
Chow said that it is important that a state as diverse as Penang continues to embrace its diversity and champion multi- racialism.
"Our differences are not an excuse to distance ourselves but an opportunity to be part of a multi-ethnic society. We will develop the state jointly through our education, economy and culture," he said in a statement.
"We are empowering the mastery of Tamil, digital skills upscaling and encouraging the young to venture into science, technical, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields."
For the Indian community, Penang allocated RM2.42 million for Tamil vernacular education schools, of which RM1.34 million was spent on digital and STEM educational subjects.
The rest was allocated for infrastructure upkeep, and Penang is working to ensure that all 28 Tamil primary vernacular schools are sitting on their own land.
The state is also assisting in the smooth relocation of the SJK (T) Rajaji school in Air Itam to another site.
Chow also paid tribute to the Gujari Samaj community in Penang.
From the formation of an association to represent the Indian Gujarati families in Penang in the 1950s to a thriving community of 130 families today, the Gujarati Samaj Penang has kept its cultural traditions alive while contributing to Penang’s spirit of unity and togetherness’
He said that the Gujarati Association’s 76-year journey was a testament to the importance of preserving one’s heritage and passing it on to future generations.
The association, established in 1950 by a group of Gujarati families, had successfully preserved its language, festivals, prayers and values while embracing its home in Penang.
Chow also touched on his second and final term as Chief Minister, following the constitutional amendment introduced in 2018 to limit the position to a maximum of two terms, making Penang the only state with such a provision.
Reflecting on his 40 years in politics, he expressed appreciation for the longstanding friendship and support of the Gujarati Samaj, adding that he continued to enjoy his work in government. - November 11, 2026.
