PENANG’s longstanding cultural and historical ties with China can be strengthened through greater people-to-people exchanges, with mutual understanding and trust forming the foundation for lasting friendship, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He said simple interactions, such as a young Penangite studying in Shanghai or a Chinese student learning to cook laksa from a classmate in George Town, could help people from both countries understand and appreciate each other better.
“Years from now, a young Penangite may study in Shanghai, while a student from China learns to cook laksa from a classmate in George Town. Small exchanges like these shape how our two peoples understand and appreciate each other,” he said.
Chow was speaking at the 5th Penang International Hanwang Forum gala dinner, themed “An Evening of Love and Unity ─ China-Malaysia Friendship Gala”, at the Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH) in Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling tonight.
He said Malaysia and China continue to strengthen their ties through trade, infrastructure and digital connectivity under the Belt and Road Initiative, but lasting partnerships require more than economic cooperation.
“While trade builds roads, people build trust,” he said.
Chow said Penang has been a meeting point of cultures, communities and trade for centuries, with its multicultural heritage reflected in its temples, mosques, churches, shophouses and vibrant streets.
He added that many communities in the state share longstanding historical and cultural ties with China, which remain an important part of Penang’s heritage.
“Cultural exchange has never been an abstract concept for Penang. It is part of our everyday lives,” he said, adding that people from different countries and regions had settled in the state over the years, bringing their cultures, languages and customs with them.
Chow also encouraged guests to take the opportunity to meet people they had not spoken to before, learn about their cities and families, and share their experiences.
He said trust can grow through shared meals as much as through shared agreements.
“Heritage is what we inherit. Friendship is what we choose to build,” he said.
He congratulated the organising committee on the successful conclusion of the two-day forum, which focused on the Digital Silk Road.
Chow expressed hope that participants would leave Penang with fond memories and new friendships, opening the way for further exchanges and cooperation between Malaysia and China.
In a surprise gesture, the organisers presented Chow with a birthday cake as he turned 68 today. Guests then joined in singing a birthday song.
Earlier, PCTH secretary Datuk Lim Choo Hooi, who delivered a speech on behalf of its president, Tan Sri Tan Khoon Hai, said the forum served as an important platform for fostering friendship, deepening cooperation and promoting people-to-people exchanges between China and Malaysia.
Tan was unable to attend the dinner due to an unforeseen personal matter at the last minute.
Lim said PCTH, founded in 1875, has a 151-year history and is one of Penang’s long-established Chinese community organisations, bringing people together while promoting education, culture and social welfare.
He also highlighted the historical significance of Dr Sun Yat-sen’s visit to Penang, where he delivered a speech in 1906 promoting revolutionary ideas and calling for revolution in China.
The organisers also paid tribute to Dr Wu Lien-teh, a pioneering medical figure and former Penang Free School student whose achievements remain a source of pride for Penang.
Wu pursued medical studies in Cambridge, England, and was later recognised for his groundbreaking efforts in combating the Manchurian plague of 1910–1911, earning him the title “Plague Fighter”.
“His life exemplified the pursuit of scientific truth, service to society and an international spirit that transcended national boundaries,” said Lim, who is also the Penang Forward Sports Club chairman.
An AI-generated film, AIGC: The Legend of Wu Lien-teh, was screened during the dinner. The film combined modern technology with historical and cultural heritage to showcase Wu’s distinguished contributions.
Also present at the gala dinner were State Secretary Datuk Dr Jafri Abdul Jalil, Vice-Consul General of China in Penang, Madam Ding Qiao, and Hanwang Forum founder and adviser Christopher Chuang.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissala Thian
