THE Charge d’Affaires of The Republic of Fiji to Malaysia Pita Tagicakirewa has expressed hope to strengthening friendship between Penang and the Republic of Fiji.
Tagicakirewa said there were trade and commerce companies from Kuala Lumpur that made their presence known in Fiji.
“We hope that more companies from Penang will establish their businesses in Fiji in the near future.
“We are also keen to share our interest and explore more tourism opportunities in Penang,” Tagicakirewa said during his courtesy visit on Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow at his office today.
Tagicakirewa also expressed his interest in heritage collaboration. He also commended Malaysia for its ability in containing the Covid-19 pandemic.
During the meeting, Chow shared the state’s challenges in managing the George Town Unesco World Heritage Sites.
Chow stressed the need to preserve and conserve heritage.
“We face several challenges, such as gentrification, after George Town was inscribed as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Certain areas in George Town became more vibrant.
“Living culture is something that keeps evolving,” he said.
Joining them was the newly appointed honorary consul-general of Republic of Fiji in Penang Datuk Cha Hoo Peng.
They also discussed about the post Covid-19 economy.
Chow said that it would be great if Penang and the other countries could collectively grow the economy.
“We have to grow the economy together. It is insufficient if the state (alone) is safe.
“It requires wisdom to strike a balance between public health and economic health,” he said.
Chow hoped that other states in Malaysia would also be safe from the pandemic.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alvie Cheng