MALAYSIANS must not be overly sensitive over every issue but instead practise tolerance and mutual understanding to preserve national unity, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow advised.
He urged the people to strengthen bonds of harmony across faiths, cultures and communities, reminding them that unity was the foundation of Malaysia’s independence and nationhood.
“In politics, mistakes can happen, and on social media, anything can happen. That is why we must learn to forgive and to understand each other well,” he said at a Malaysia Day luncheon hosted by DAP Batu Kawan Parliament Liaison Committee (PLC) at The Light Hotel in Seberang Jaya today.
In his speech, Chow cautioned that divisions could destabilise the country if not managed properly, citing the political instabilities in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh as examples.
“We are not perfect, but we must ensure our people remain united. Sometimes we are too sensitive. After more than 60 years, Malaysia has achieved a lot in instilling patriotism and nurturing national love. We should build on that, and not allow differences to tear us apart,” he added.
The event, attended by over 600 people, featured a festive luncheon.
Chow shared that the celebration carried special meaning for him personally.
“I always wanted to organise a Malaysia Day event, and today it has become a reality for me. In Batu Kawan, we did this simple programme to usher in Malaysia Day,” he said.
He stressed that Merdeka Day and Malaysia Day are not just dates on the calendar or public holidays, but symbols of the country’s struggle, progress and unity.
“These days represent our independence and the formation of our nation. They are reminders of what binds us together as Malaysians,” he said.
Although it was a DAP-organised programme, Chow said invitations were extended to Village Community Management Councils (MPKKs) and elected representatives from all Pakatan Harapan parties.
Chow acknowledged that some might consider his emphasis on unity and harmony way too idealistic, but he said it should be pursued and turned into reality.
“In Penang, we are grateful for the harmony and stability we enjoy under the state administration since 2008. The duty of the government is to provide balanced development, political stability and care for the people’s welfare. Otherwise, what is the point of calling ourselves the government?” he asked.
He expressed hope that more Malaysia Day celebrations would be organised at the grassroots level in the future, including by non-governmental organisations.
“This may be a small and simple gathering, but it is a beginning. I hope Malaysia Day will continue to be celebrated more widely in the years to come,” Chow said.
Earlier, state DAP chairman and Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said it is time for the Federal Government to deliver results amid ongoing criticisms.
“Now that we are in government, we must be ready to receive feedback, criticisms and even anger from the people. We cannot give up on our country. We cannot afford to be pessimistic, but must strive to do better,” he said.
Sim noted that Malaysia’s economic performance has been encouraging, with the country attracting investments from major multinational companies while continuing to grow despite global challenges.
He also highlighted the Federal Government’s RM100 cash aid initiative as part of efforts to boost spending power.
“RM100 may not seem much, but what matters is that the government is injecting money into the economy to generate growth,” he said.
Touching on Penang, Sim credited Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow’s leadership for steady progress, citing infrastructure projects such as the upcoming Light Rail Transit (LRT).
Reflecting on the party’s journey, Sim paid tribute to pioneers such as the late Datuk Seri Utama Karpal Singh, Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang and Lim Guan Eng, saying their sacrifices laid the foundation for today’s DAP.
“Our party has gone through ups and downs. If there are mistakes, we must face the people’s anger. People have every right to criticise us. The opposition can talk, but only the government can make decisions,” he added.
Sim also urged party members to remain steadfast in their struggle.
Among those present during the luncheon were Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao-Leung, Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, Padang Lalang assemblyman Daniel Gooi, Perai assemblyman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim, and the hotel’s managing director Tan Sri Ramesh.
