Penang celebrates ties with China and Indonesia

PENANG has reinforced diplomatic ties with two strategic countries to foster mutual prosperity and to grow trade ties. 

The state hoped that the relationship with neighbouring Indonesia and China will continue to improve over the coming years, especially when they grow in tandem with Penang's own aspirations. 

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow paid tribute to the continuation of such great ties when he marked the recent 75th-anniversary celebration of the founding of the People's Republic of China at G Hotel. 

Praising China as a global economic powerhouse, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Chow noted that Penang has attracted RM13.2 billion in approved manufacturing investments from China over the past decade. 

Reflecting on shared achievements, Chow highlighted key sectors such as tourism and cultural exchanges. 

“In the first eight months of this year, we have welcomed 74,891 Chinese visitors through Penang International Airport (PIA) and 8,391 through Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT),” he said. 

Chow also remarked on the presence of popular China-grown brands like Mixue Ice Cream and Tea, Tea Expert, and Haidilao in Penang.

During the reception, China's Consul General in Penang, Zhou Youbin, expressed his appreciation for the long-standing ties with Malaysia, particularly Penang. 

“We are friends whose hearts are connected, and partners working towards win-win outcomes. I wish for lasting peace and friendship between the people of both nations,” Zhou said. 

In another reception with Indonesia, Chow said that bilateral ties between both neighbours will continue to grow in stature. 

Speaking at the celebration of the Republic of Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day at G Hotel, Chow expressed his pleasure in being part of the joyous and memorable occasion. 

Chow also extended heartfelt thanks to Consul-General Wanton Saragih Sidauruk and the Indonesian consulate for their ongoing efforts in fostering warm relations with Penang. 

“Given the deep-rooted ties between our two nations (Malaysia and Indonesia) – anchored in shared language, history, culture, and religion, as well as bonds that extend through familial and business connections – Indonesia’s political developments will always be of significant interest to Malaysians." 

Penang, in particular, values Indonesia’s support in helping to fortify the state’s position as one of the region's leading medical tourism hubs, he noted. 

Wanton highlighted the importance of air connectivity, noting that there are approximately 80 direct round - trip flights between Penang and Indonesia each week, covering destinations such as Kuala Namu, Jakarta, Surabaya, and Aceh. 

“This frequency is second only to flights between Kuala Lumpur and Indonesia. The high volume of Indonesian travellers to Penang reflects various purposes, including business, education, work, and medical treatment." 

Meanwhile, Chow when addressing the Penang Master Builders' (PMB) 147th anniversary dinner at the St Giles - Wembley Hotel, said that the construction industry is not just about building structures but it is about shaping the future. 

 With advancements in technology, sustainability practices, and digital infrastructure, the construction industry is becoming increasingly complex and essential, said Chow. 

Penang’s construction sector is poised for significant transformation, with anticipated growth and increased job opportunities by the second half of this year. 

Chow also noted that several major infrastructure projects in Penang, such as the Penang Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line, the Air Itam to Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway, the expansion of Penang International Airport (PIA), and the development of Penang Silicon Island, are well underway. 

PMB president Datuk Goh Teng Woo stressed that the organisation is committed to shaping Penang’s future, creating a lasting legacy of progress and prosperity for generations to come. - September 26, 2024.