PENANG is ready to explore greater cooperation with Andhra Pradesh, India, particularly in the semiconductor industry.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this during the Telugu Association of Malaysia’s (TAM) 70th anniversary celebration at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC) last night.
Among the distinguished guests was Sri Kondapalli Srinivas Garu, Andhra Pradesh Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP), and Empowerment and Relations of the Indian Overseas Diaspora (NRI).
Chow said Penang and Andhra Pradesh shared similarities, as both are home to significant semiconductor industries, creating opportunities for closer collaboration.
“I heard that you have a very strong semiconductor sector in your state. Penang is also one of the most important semiconductor hubs in Malaysia.
“I think we can explore opportunities to work together, and I will consider your invitation to visit your state,” he said in response to Sri Kondapalli’s invitation.
Chow said Penang’s multi-ethnic, multicultural and multi-religious character has enabled communities, including the Telugu community, to live harmoniously and contribute to the state’s development for more than 200 years.
“Penang is built on diversity. I hope you will recognise that Penang has been a multi-ethnic, multicultural and multi-religious society for more than 200 years.
“The Telugu community, together with other communities in Penang, has lived harmoniously in this state and contributed to its development over the past two centuries,” he said.
He noted that the Telugu community has made significant contributions in education, medicine, business and public service, while continuing to preserve its language, culture and heritage.
Chow also congratulated TAM on reaching its 70th anniversary, describing the milestone as a testament to the dedication of generations of Telugu Malaysians in preserving their identity.
“Seven decades is no short journey. It is proof of the commitment of several generations of Telugu people in Malaysia to preserve your language, culture, heritage and identity,” he said.
Established in 1956, TAM has served as an important platform for uniting and representing the Telugu community in Malaysia, with about 30 Telugu associations now operating nationwide.
Chow said the Telugu community in Malaysia is estimated to number between 400,000 and 500,000, with about 10,000 residing in Penang.
“Although your numbers may be small, I believe your contribution to Penang is significant, and we look forward to your continued role in the state’s development,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of preserving the Telugu language among younger generations amid changing social circumstances.
According to Chow, more than 50 schools once offered Telugu language education. However, the decline in the number of such institutions has made it necessary for associations to organise classes and programmes to ensure younger generations continue learning the language, culture and history of their community.
He added that the state government had provided a RM30,000 grant to TAM Penang to conduct Telugu language classes.
Chow also thanked TAM for choosing Penang as the venue for its 70th anniversary celebration and welcomed delegates from across Malaysia and abroad.
“I hope our Telugu friends from throughout Malaysia will enjoy their stay in Penang,” he said.
Chow also expressed appreciation to foreign guests who have travelled thousands of miles to attend the celebrations and the Asia-Pacific Telugu Federation Conference, which begins tomorrow.
He said the conference will serve as an important platform for the Telugu diaspora to strengthen connections, preserve its language and culture, and explore business opportunities in the countries where they now live.
Chow also congratulated TAM president Dr S. Vengkata Prathap and the organising committee for successfully hosting the anniversary celebration, and wished the Asia-Pacific Telugu Federation Conference every success.
Meanwhile, Dr Vengkata Prathap said the Telugu community in Malaysia has played an important role in preserving its language, culture and heritage.
“TAM is celebrating its 70th anniversary in remembrance of the struggles and sacrifices of our forefathers in safeguarding our identity,” he said.
He expressed hope for sustained and meaningful funding support to help preserve the community’s heritage and ensure it receives proper recognition in the country.
Also present at the celebration was People’s Progressive Party (PPP) president Datuk Dr Loga Bala Mohan.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat