GEORGE TOWN – Do not assume there will be an easy win in Penang in the next general election, state DAP chairman Chow Kon Yeow warned delegates at the chapter’s convention today.
“If we are seen to have failed the people of Penang, if we are seen to have failed to help the economy recover from this pandemic, we may be kicked out in the next elections.
“We need to be a strong party, making a strong state government, so that we can overcome this Covid-19 pandemic.”
He highlighted three major crises, encompassing health and the economy due to Covid-19, and politics due to the “undemocratic Sheraton Move” that saw Pakatan Harapan losing federal power in February last year.
“We have not succeeded in stopping the spread of Covid-19; workplace clusters are still rampant and unresolved.
“Although it is the responsibility of the federal government, we still carry that burden because those affected are the people and economy of Penang.”
Though the state has taken a blow from the pandemic, he said, it has managed to strike a balance between public health and the economy, as there is still foreign and local investments flowing into Penang.
Chow, who is also chief minister, believes it is a historical moment to lead the state while managing three crises simultaneously, and elected representatives should continue to unite and be strong despite the current political turmoil.
“Penang DAP has been an example to other states, and we are proud to be leading the state for three terms.
“But, we still need to strengthen the party, so that we can continue to be a leading state government despite the three crises.” – The Vibes, March 21, 2021
Additional reporting by Ian McIntyre