Butterworth: Malaysia Day is not merely an annual celebration — it is a story of struggle, sacrifice, and unity that strengthens the pledge to continue shaping the nation’s future, said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. He emphasized that Malaysia Day reflects how people of different races, cultures, languages, and faiths have learned to coexist, share hope, and pursue common goals.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chow highlighted that Malaysia Day 1963 brought the states together, while Malaysia Day 2025 unites progress and sustainable development. He noted that the nation’s growth is a shared achievement of every state, including Sabah and Sarawak. Drawing a parallel to Penang’s two bridges that connect the island with the mainland, he stated that Malaysia connects the peninsula, Sabah, and Sarawak through a bond that will never be broken. These remarks were made during the Malaysia Day 2025 celebration at PICCA Convention Centre Butterworth Arena.
Chow added that Penang is honored and grateful to host the national-level Malaysia Day celebration this year. He extended a warm welcome to guests from Sabah, Sarawak, and the peninsula, inviting them to the Pearl of the Orient to mark this historic occasion.
Meanwhile, Chow mentioned that under the Penang2030 agenda, the state is progressing with several mega projects such as Silicon Island, which aims to position Malaysia as a leader in the global semiconductor industry. He also discussed the Penang Transport Master Plan, which will pave the way for a modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport system. Additionally, the Penang International Financial Centre is expected to position the state as a regional hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and finance.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Penang Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas representing Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. This year’s celebration takes place in Penang, following the tradition of rotating the celebration among Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia each year.