PENANG Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow today welcomed the appointment of two Penang Members of Parliament to the newly reshuffled federal Cabinet, emphasising the importance of economic policy delivery and special attention for the state’s industrial sector.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced a significant Cabinet reshuffle yesterday, naming Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin as Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) and Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim Chee Keong as the Minister for Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP).
Speaking to reporters, Chow said the Cabinet’s primary responsibility should be ensuring people-centric economic agendas that directly alleviate the rising cost of living.
“What matters most is the livelihood economy, because this is where the greatest impact can be felt by the people if their lives and sources of income are well managed and protected,” he said.
Chow praised Sim Tze Tzin’s previous work at the Ministry of Human Resources, expressing confidence that his diligence and performance would continue to benefit Malaysia’s critical small and medium enterprise (SME) sector.
Highlighting Penang’s industrial prominence, Chow noted: “As an industrial state, Penang has many dealings with Miti. I hope he will not only play a role at the national level but also give special attention to Penang.”
The Cabinet reshuffle, affecting 28 ministers and deputy ministers, involves both portfolio changes and new appointments aimed at strengthening governance and policy implementation.
In a separate address today, Chow also highlighted Penang’s burgeoning tourism sector, which he described as not merely recovering but “maturing.” The state recorded 7.22 million passenger movements through its airport in the first 11 months of 2025, alongside attracting new global partnerships.
The airport’s passenger numbers represent a nearly six per cent year-on-year increase, building on over 8.2 million hotel guests welcomed in 2024.
Chow explained that as visitor numbers continue to rise, Penang’s focus is shifting toward “quality, distinctiveness, and sustainability,” noting that modern travellers increasingly seek meaningful experiences rooted in authenticity, education, and environmental responsibility.
He cited the recent international franchise agreement signed by Penang’s homegrown butterfly and insect sanctuary, Entopia, as an example of this new tourism direction. “Entopia’s expansion into eight countries proves that Penang brands can compete globally while being anchored in strong, knowledge-driven values. We hope it will inspire more Penang-based enterprises to think globally, innovate boldly and scale responsibly,” he said.
Chow also confirmed that the planned expansion of Penang International Airport to accommodate 12 million passengers will be pivotal in strengthening connectivity and attracting new international routes, supporting the state’s strategy to grow higher-value tourism. - December 17, 2025
