THE people need to decide whether they want to risk stability and economic decay by opting for the abrasive style of racial politics, which yields division and uncertainty
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that alternatively, they can also opt for national unity-themed politics, which operates on stability and growth.
In a democracy, the choice is entirely up to the people, but they should be rightfully informed of the risks of going down the path of uncertainty rather than for stability, which every nation yearns for and aspires for, said Chow.
He said that extremism in politics tends to rattle investors, who would raise the question of the exact direction of the country.
"It is not just confined to Penang but the entire country. A need to generate confidence among investors for our nation's future," said Chow after attending the Penang Amanah convention at the Holiday Inn & Suites hotel.
If identity politics leads to racism, which can then have an impact on the country's impact as a moderate and progressive Islamic nation, then it may affect the investment flow, Chow said.
"If there is a realignment of our political forces in the country, what message does it send to investors. This needs to be determined."
Chow earlier also said that the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition, which he leads in Penang, will hold a meeting soon to take stock of what has transpired in Negeri Sembilan after PH was knocked out after two terms.
PH only secured seven state seats out of 36, whereas Barisan Nasional and its electoral pact partner Perikatan Nasional won 29 to secure a two-thirds majority.
Chow said that Penang PH has yet to discuss the possibility of holding a separate state election in the event Parliament is dissolved soon.
Chow also reiterated earlier that Negeri Sembilan DAP chairman Anthony Loke Siew Fook need not relinquish his post despite losing his Chennah state seat in the election, ending his 13-year hold on the constituency.
Loke is also the DAP secretary-general and Transport Minister. - August 2, 2026.
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