PENANG Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has lauded the long-standing ties between Penang and Germany, describing the relationship as one built on mutual respect, strong business connections and cultural exchanges.
Speaking at the German Unity Day Reception Dinner at the Eastern & Oriental (E&O) Hotel tonight, Chow said Penang’s transformation into a global manufacturing hub could be traced back more than five decades to the arrival of pioneering multinational firms, including German companies.
“These companies, famously known as ‘Eight Samurai’, set the foundation for Penang to be synonymous with manufacturing excellence. Over the years, they have contributed immensely to making Penang one of Malaysia’s key focal points for investment inflows and external trade,” Chow said.
He added that successive German ambassadors to Malaysia have played a personal role in ensuring Penang remained a focal point in bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of trade, investment and cultural collaboration.
Chow also expressed his appreciation to the Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Penang, Datuk Hans Peter Brenner, and the Malaysian German Society for their efforts in fostering closer ties between Malaysians and Germans.
On the occasion of the celebration, Chow conveyed his warmest wishes to the people and Government of the Federal Republic of Germany as the nation prepares to mark the 35th anniversary of reunification between East and West Germany, an event he described as a historic milestone in the modern world.
“While the world continues to grapple with geopolitical challenges, Germany’s reunification serves as a powerful reminder to the international community that reconciliation and a commitment to peace can make the world, and all of us, better together,” he said.
Also present were the Federal Republic of Germany’s ambassador to Malaysia, Silke Riecken-Daerr, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai and Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.
Earlier during a courtesy visit, Silke reiterated Germany’s commitment to contributing economically to Malaysia and Penang through trade relationships.
Chow noted that Germany’s presence in Penang, particularly in medical devices and electrical and electronics (E&E), plays a vital role in reinforcing the state’s supply chain and ecosystem.
Both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.
Other issues discussed during the courtesy visit were water supply, artificial intelligence (AI), education, investment opportunities and other matters of mutual interest.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix and video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat