THE Penang state government has submitted a list of potential candidates for the position of Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor) of Penang to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) for consideration, ahead of the tenure expiry of the current governor, Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, on 30 April 2025.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow confirmed that the list of candidates had been submitted to the PMO recently. He explained that the tenure of a Yang di-Pertua Negeri is typically four years, and Tun Ahmad Fuzi’s term is nearing its completion.
"Typically, the Yang di-Pertua Negeri is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for a single term of four years. This term will end on 30 April 2025. If Tun Ahmad Fuzi's term is to be extended, it must be done at the discretion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong," said Chow during a press conference at the Chief Minister’s Office in George Town on Wednesday.
"Should there be no extension, a new appointment will be made, in accordance with the state’s Constitution. If an extension occurs, it will still follow the same process as the initial appointment," he added.
Chow urged the public to remain patient, as the final decision rests with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and that any announcements regarding the matter will be made at an appropriate time.
Regarding the list of candidates submitted by the state government, Chow explained that the names were discussed and approved in the State Executive Council (MMK) before being forwarded to the PMO.
"As per usual procedure, the state government is requested by the PMO to submit a list of names for consideration. This process has already been carried out following the approval of the MMK," he said.
"The list will then be brought by the PMO to the palace to be presented to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for further deliberation."
When questioned about the number of names submitted, Chow declined to comment. "I choose not to discuss matters that are at the discretion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong," he stated. "Regardless of who the candidates are, my answer remains the same. What is important is that the state government has carried out its role by submitting the list to the PMO."
Recently, rumours have circulated regarding potential candidates to succeed Ahmad Fuzi, who has held the position of Yang di-Pertua Negeri since 1 May 2021. Among the names mentioned is former Perak Menteri Besar, Tan Sri Ramli Ngah Talib, as a potential successor. - March 19, 2025
