TRANSPORT Minister Anthony Loke has proposed Yeoh Soon Hin, the caretaker state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, as the new chairman of the Penang Port Commission.
This comes after Yeoh was not selected as one of the 19 candidates by the Democratic Action Party (DAP) for the upcoming Penang state election on Aug 12, having served as the Paya Terubong assemblyman for three terms.
However, Loke, who is also the DAP secretary-general, stated that Yeoh will be contesting a parliamentary seat in the next general election.
During a press conference after announcing all the 19 Penang DAP candidates for the state election, he praised Yeoh’s capabilities as the executive councillor for tourism and explained his experience would be beneficial in developing the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal.
“I also need people with experience in the state government and a bridge between the state and federal governments. Yeoh fulfils the criteria,” Loke explained.
Loke will inform Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim of his proposal and if it is accepted, he will subsequently seek the Agong’s consent.
The PPC chairmanship was last held by MCA vice-president Datuk Tan Teik Cheng from 2020 until February this year.
In response to being not selected as a candidate for the state election, Yeoh expressed respect for the party’s decision while appreciating the opportunity to be appointed as the PPC chairman.
“However, I am grateful to SG (secretary-general Anthony Loke) for appointing me as the Penang Port Commission chairman.
“Definitely Penang Port is also one of the important components and an integral part of the Penang economy. I will use my expertise, knowledge and skills as a tourism exco to perform my duty as the Penang Port chairman because I believe that we also need to develop Penang Port.
“We will make Penang Port shine. I am also grateful to SG for arranging my candidacy for a parliamentary seat in the next general election.
“I perceive this is a new chapter in my political career. For the time being, Penang Port is a new platform for me and I will do my best in whatever endeavour is entrusted to me by the party.
“When God closes one door, He opens another. And I appreciate the chance to make valuable contributions to Penang’s development,” Yeoh said.
DAP has named former Bukit Bendera MP Wong Hon Wai as its candidate for the Paya Terubong constituency.