GEORGE TOWN – Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow reiterated his call for Penangites to take the Covid-19 vaccine, which he called the only hope to “free” themselves and the community from the pandemic.
In a special message in conjunction with the nation’s 64th Independence Day, Chow said the “Malaysia Prihatin” theme, which was again chosen this year, brought meaning to all citizens especially in the fight against Covid-19.
“In the context of the state of Penang, I and the leadership of the state government are always with the people. The people’s well-being and welfare have always been our main pillar.
“We listen to every complaint and grievance of the citizens and try our best to find the best solution in going through these difficult times,” he said in a statement today.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic was declared in March 2020, Chow said, the state government had taken proactive steps by approving a total allocation of about RM175 million through five Penang People’s Aid Packages.
Apart from that, the Penang government had on August 11 collaborated with non-governmental organizations, key industry players, and professionals in the state to form the PgCare Alliance, which aims to provide support and assistance to the people.
“Through this combination, the distribution of aid can be accelerated and more focused according to the four main service cores, namely mental health, employment, food and basic necessities, as well as financial negotiations,” he said.
The Padang Kota assemblyman stressed that it is critical for the people to embody the value of independence, despite facing one of the most devastating health crises in the modern era.
“It is not an obstacle that can fade the spirit of love for the country in oneself. Instead, in the context of nationhood, we must live the values of independence and patriotism in this new norm,” he said. – The Vibes, August 29, 2021