THE Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House organised by the Penang Muslim League Coalition brought together people from all walks of life in a vibrant celebration of unity and goodwill.
Graced by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, and his consort, Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah, alongside Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and state leaders, the event, held in the vicinity of the Kapitan Keling Mosque, saw people thronging the area as early as 4pm.
In his speech, Chow expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate Aidilfitri in a gathering that strengthens unity in Penang’s multicultural society.
“This event not only celebrates Aidilfitri but serves as an important platform to strengthen unity, foster closer ties and nurture harmony within our diverse community, in line with the aspirations of Penang2030,” he said.
The Chief Minister also announced that the Penang government contributed RM30,000 to support the Hari Raya Open House.
Chow described Aidilfitri as a symbol of victory and renewal, encouraging the community to reinforce values of sincerity, moderation and compassion for those in need.
He commended the Penang Muslim League Coalition, which comprises nearly 30 associations, for its role in empowering the Indian Muslim community in the state.
“The Indian Muslim community has a long history in Penang’s development, from trade and heritage food to gold businesses, tourism and SMEs.
“The state government recognises these contributions and remains committed to strengthening the community’s development in a more structured, inclusive and impactful way,” he said.
Chow highlighted four key areas of collaboration between the coalition, the state government and the Federal Government.
On economic and entrepreneurial development, he said the state is committed to strengthening the Indian Muslim business ecosystem in sectors such as food, textiles and gold through access to financing, digital training and tourism-based marketing.
“With the digital economy now contributing over 23 per cent to Malaysia’s GDP, this effort is no longer optional but a strategic necessity to ensure local entrepreneurs remain competitive,” he said.
He further added that proposed developments of a ‘Street Food’ hub and a ‘Gold Bazaar’ in George Town’s heritage area could revitalise the local economy and attract premium tourism spending while creating new job opportunities. Discussions with the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) are currently underway.
On education and human capital development, Chow said the state, through the Muslim Economic Development Agenda (APEM), is focusing on skills training, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and exposure to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
“With demand for highly skilled talent expected to rise by 2030, this approach will ensure young Indian Muslims not only inherit family business legacies but emerge as key players in the high-tech economy,” he said.
He also emphasised welfare and social wellbeing initiatives to ensure vulnerable groups, including the asnaf, senior citizens and low-income families, are not left behind.
Relatively, Chow underscored the importance of unity and harmony, describing Penang as a model of interfaith and intercultural coexistence.
“I am confident that with the strong network of the Muslim League Coalition and the support of the state government, the Indian Muslim community will continue to be a key driver of Penang’s economic, social and tourism development,” he added.
Also present earlier were state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, and Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong.