Story by Chan Lilian
CHIEF Minister Lim Guan Eng and the US Ambassador to Malaysia Joseph Y. Yun had a toasting ceremony to mark the US Independence Day at a gala dinner on July 1.
The marching In by US Marines was followed by a short speech by CM Lim.
Both countries’ flags were displayed during the ceremony to mark the celebration of US Independence Day in Malaysia.
“Whatever may have happened these few days, I am still the democratically elected Chief Minister of Penang. We do not allow these to deter and distract us from carrying out my duties as the CM,” Lim said.
This was received with loud cheers and applauses from the top corporate leaders of multinational corporations and senior executives who were amongst the guests.
Lim thanked Yun and all US investors in Penang.
“US investment is substantial in Malaysia and 59% of it is from Penang. Thank you! We assure you we will work hard to make you feel welcome and achieve our aspiration to be an international city,” Lim added.
He ended with:”In Penang, we do not fear, we believe in hope.”
“The honourable Chief Minister has been a good friend. He has much work to do to elevate US-Malaysia relationship,” Yun said in his speech.
Earlier, reporters had asked Lim to comment on his feelings as the gala dinner was his first official assignment after being charged with corruption.
”I am very touched by the warm and enthusiastic welcome from the guests here tonight. They are not only very supportive in words but also in kind. Thanks from the bottom of my heart for breaching the RM1 million for the party in record time. With the support, I am touched and we will continue to work for Penang as we are elected by the people,” Lim said.