BATU KAWAN – Penang is looking into setting up a child development department to assist parents in meeting the high requirements of childcare.
In line with what was mooted by the unity government in the revised Budget 2023, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that Penang will emulate their national counterparts by moving to have such a centre.
Chow said that it can be placed under the management of the women’s affairs portfolio, which is now overseen by state executive councillor Chong Eng.
Speaking at a press conference today, he said that Penang views a harmonious family institution as central to its aspirations to become an international city by 2030.
To achieve it, children need to be brought up well with good nutrition and a strong mind to meet future challenges, he added.
“What children are taught when they are young will hold them in good stead when they grow up. A three-year-old can be taught life lessons which are (still) invaluable even when they reach the age of 80,” said Chow.
He said that it is important that children are brought up in a wholesome way to be equipped to face the challenges of the new century.
Earlier, Chow launched a week-long celebration to mark International Women’s Day. Also present were Chong Eng, Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, Penang Women Development Council chief executive officer Ong Bee Leng, and Design Village chief operating officer Andy Song.
Design Village plans to have the biggest number of zumba participants under the Malaysia Book of Records to mark the occasion by next week.
The climax of the celebration would be held at Midtown Perda in Kubang Menerong in Tasek Gelugor on March 11th.
Chow also pledged that Penang will back the needs of women in the state, as they form a crucial part of the state's population.
He also touched on the 30% quota of elected representatives to be females, saying that the number can only be attainable if more women step forward to serve in public office. – The Vibes, March 5, 2023
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