GEORGE TOWN – Salary revisions and better job benefits will play a big role in retaining talent in Penang as demand for electronics and electrical components continues to grow.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has urged foreign companies to offer better perks and salaries, especially for engineers, professionals, technicians and others.
He said in a press conference yesterday that Penang has a target of RM5 billion in foreign investment every year.
“As for the state government, we will strive to draw more investors by continuing to strengthen various measures and initiatives to improve the quality of life,” Chow said after flagging off the City Walk at the Esplanade.
“But it is not enough just creating jobs, we must retain talents and constantly upskill our people here so they can qualify for better jobs and develop more skills and earn more.
“When graduates choose a place to work, they will look at the sustainability and livability aspects. And when they have families, they will also look at the educational facilities from kindergarten to universities.”
Chow said Penang managed to lure RM16.9 billion in total approved manufacturing investments in 2019 followed by RM14.1 billion in 2020.
The 2021 figures will be released later this year.
He said Penang will continue to focus on its strength in electronics and electrical manufacturing while pursuing the digital economy and services sectors.
Chow also wants Penang to focus on creative tourism to make the travel sector more appealing to tourists.
In another development, he announced that former engineering department director of the Penang Island City Council A. Rajendran has been appointed as the council’s secretary effective January 1.
Rajendran replaced Datuk Addnan Mohd Razali who retired after his contract ended on December 31.
Rajendran has served the council for more than 30 years, and was one of those involved in converting many of the municipal roads on the island into a one-way traffic system as the state worked to overcome the severe congestion on its roads.
The ongoing holiday period has exposed the state’s need for an upgrade of its public transport and traffic dispersal system.
Penang has mooted a controversial transport master plan that has a light rail system and five new highway roads, but has yet to materialise due to several factors at play.
In addition, the state mooted the Penang South Islands mega project, Gurney Wharf reclamation project, and undersea tunnel between Gurney Drive and Bagan Ajam in Butterworth. – The Vibes, January 2, 2022
