PENANG is looking forward to strengthening its ties with Indonesia, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He has expressed his hopes to see continuous progress with Indonesia in various fields.
“I take this opportunity to thank Bapak Bambang Suharto (Indonesia consul-general in Penang) and Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia’s officers for their continuous efforts in promoting Indonesia’s long-standing warm relations with the state.
“A belated ‘Selamat Hari Ulang Tahun ke-76, Dirgahayu Republik Indonesia’ to our Indonesian friends, especially those in Penang.
“I believe this challenging period has taught us to cherish what really matters – good health, family ties, and good friends, which are vital for us to gather strength,” Chow said in his speech during the diplomatic reception of the 76th anniversary of Republic of Indonesia in G Hotel today.
Chow also said he was delighted to see the Indonesian Ambassador to Malaysia, Hermono, on his inaugural visit to Penang.
“A special gratitude to Chief Minister Chow and those present to commemorate this joyous occasion.
“This event is made meaningful with the presence of Bapak Hermono,” Bambang said.
Hermono also expressed his thanks to Chow and Chow’s wife, Tan Lean Kee, and several dignitaries for their presence.
“It is a meaningful event here tonight,” said Hermono, adding that he was confident of the country overcoming the Covid-19 challenges.
Also present during the event were state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, state Entrepreneur Development, Trade and Industry Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Halim Hussain, state Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng, Berti Suharto and Kiki Hermono.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Chan Kok Kuan
Video by Law Suun Ting