PENANG Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow reminded fellow Malaysians to uphold the strongest virtue of the state, which is embracing unity in diversity despite the differences the people endure.
The state's strength in diversity, which was the consequence of Independence, must continue to be championed and upheld, said Chow.
In his 69th Merdeka messaging, Chow urged Penangites to uphold the spirit of Independence by maintaining the tradition of embracing the pillars of the country, which is unity through diversity.
"We must maintain this virtue as a constant reminder of the meaning of Independence. We must protect our harmony and ensure that Malaysia, of which Penang is a key component, moves forward," said Chow.
Unity has buffeted the state from the various challenges and changes that the country has to face since 1957, said Chow, the former Penang DAP chairman.
And because of the unity shield, Chow said that the state can focus on improving the quality of life among its inhabitants by trying to attain quality jobs through good investments, affordable housing, better cost-of-living control and upholding the importance of family.
Through unity, Penang was also able to attain success beyond its land size; despite being relatively small, the state leads the nation in industrialisation and tech mastery besides becoming a hub for innovation and tourism, said Chow.
"Penang's rapid development must come with strong moral values so the people can enjoy the benefits of unity," said Chow.
"We are one state, one nation despite different faces, but we have one common soul. We may have different tales, but we are one in wanting what is best for the state and future generations," he said. - August 30, 2026.
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