GEORGE TOWN – Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has hailed China’s rapid development since the implementation of its open-door economic policy in the 1980s, which saw it growing into a manufacturing powerhouse and becoming the world’s second-largest economy by 2010.
The DAP national vice-chairman and state chief said the economic “miracle” has greatly improved the Chinese’s living standards and served to enhance Beijing’s influence on the global economy.
He praised China’s measures to contain Covid-19 as an “eye-opener” for many.
The comments were made in Chow’s address to mark the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, observed via an online reception yesterday.
The event was hosted by Lu Shiwei, China’s consul-general in Penang, and attended by Deputy Education Minister and MCA deputy president Datuk Mah Hang Soon.
Chow noted that 2021 marks the 47th year of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.
Bilateral ties between the countries on the economy, culture, education and tourism have always been built on “close mutual cooperation”, he said.
“If I may add on, in view of the pandemic still affecting us, I believe cooperation between us can be expanded into the fields of medical science and public health management.
The precautionary steps taken by the Chinese government, mass vaccination programme, and other effective methods used to keep the Covid-19 pandemic in check within your borders will serve as an eye-opener to many.”
Despite the immediate challenges to lives and livelihood ahead, he said, the Penang government will remain steadfast in achieving its Penang 2030 vision, themed “A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation”.
“The revival of the state economy, our competitiveness to attract talent, and as a location of choice to live and work depend very much on the cohesiveness between the people and state government towards achieving this shared vision.
“On a final note, I wish to once again offer my heartiest congratulations to the People’s Republic of China for your many achievements, as well as the challenges you have managed to overcome since 1949.”
In late 1949, communists led by Mao Zedong gained control of mainland China and officially named it the People’s Republic of China.
“The state of Penang is always a willing partner for closer cooperation towards the enhancement of Malaysia-China relations, which will be of benefit to the peoples of both nations. Let us work towards a lasting friendship between the Penang government and the consulate-general of the People’s Republic of China in Penang,” said Chow. – The Vibes, October 2, 2021
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