YOUNG influential captains and promising leaders in Penang were honoured during the EZ Malaysia Special Edition – Faces of Penang at the Imperial Court Restaurant at The Top today.
The event, organised by CHTNetwork in collaboration with EZ Malaysia for the first time, saw 50 influential Penangites below the age of 50 from various industries being recognised for their contributions.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officially launched the event, described it as the most appropriate avenue not only to showcase the beauty of Penang to the world but also to introduce the influential captains and upcoming leaders in the various industries in Penang.
“I am confident that this project will be successful in reaching millions of readers through the print, digital and social media platforms of CHTNetwork.
“I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to those who are helping the Penang government in shaping the future of this beautiful state,” Chow said in his speech.
Although he came from Kuala Lumpur, Chow said he has called Penang his home for almost four decades.
Last August, he unveiled Penang2030 vision with a desire of turning the state into a family-focused green and smart state that inspires the nation.
It was a vision he wanted to share and achieve with stakeholders and all Penangites to work together towards a common aim in shaping the future of their beloved Penang 10 years from now.
“As the chief minister, I want to realise this vision in turning Penang into a high-income, inclusive, low-carbon and resilient state.
“Penang, I believe, can be a green and smart state that is driven by innovation, integrity and good governance along with the 4Ps (public, private, people, professional) partnership for a sustainable development in many years to come.”
With both the state and federal governments being on the same page now, Chow said the focal point which would cement their common view should be none other than the efficient delivery of state and federal policies.
He believes Penang would continue to lead through their green initiatives and manufacturing sector and continue to attract foreign direct investments (FDI) into the country in general and into Penang, in particular.
“It is imperative that all Penangites understand the need of working together with the state government and the country towards achieving this vision. It is when we stand together as one, in a consultative manner, that we can achieve great things and overcome the challenges, no matter how demanding they are, which we are all facing,” Chow added.
CHTNetwork president Ch’ng Huck Theng said branding these important Penangites together internationally was to bridge and connect them to the world to further strengthen the economy and business opportunities for both local and abroad.
“It is important to work with the Chief Minister and the Penang government to show that Penang is the best place on earth to visit, to invest and to stay,” Ch’ng said.
“That’s why it is important to show the world that we have very bright and capable captains and future leaders that will hold the fort.”
Eglow Sdn Bhd managing director Syed Aidid, son of Datuk Syed Mohamad Aidid Syed Murtaza said he was glad to be among the recipients chosen by the organisers.
“I am really honoured to receive such a prestigious award from CHTNetwork, which has not only a huge network in Penang but also in the region. Definitely, it will give a lot of exposure to me and my business in Malaysia and abroad,” said Syed Aidid.
“I hope this sort of recognition to all the players in the industry will inspire others to follow suit and achieve success. This is something for Penang to be proud of.”
Among those at the function were state executive councillor for Tourism Development, Arts, Culture and Heritage Yeoh Soon Hin, Director of Tourism Malaysia Penang Jonathan Bagang, Penang Port Commission chairman Jeffrey Chew and Malaysian Hotels Association (Penang Chapter) chairman Koo Boo Lim.
Also present were Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekaran, Penang Tourist Guides Association chairperson Chin Poh Chin, Ideal Property Group executive chairman Tan Sri Alex Ooi and executive director Puan Sri Joanne Phor.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alvie Cheng
Video by Chan Kok Kuan