Kuala lumpur: The Penang government remains committed to ensuring continuous progress for the Indian community, with emphasis on economic opportunities, quality education, and overall well-being. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasized that Penang’s administration is dedicated to ensuring equitable development benefits for all its residents.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Chow reiterated the government’s commitment in his Deepavali message, highlighting the focus on economic opportunities, quality education, and community well-being for the Indian community at both federal and state levels. He reflected on the significance of Deepavali, stating it reminds us that true progress involves upholding human values, cooperation, and love for one another.
Chow pointed out that 2025 marks a crucial milestone for the Penang2030 Vision, which includes policies and initiatives targeting economic growth alongside human development and socio-economic well-being. He stressed that development in Penang is incomplete if certain groups are left behind, leading to the introduction of various housing and community initiatives. Among these is the integrated resettlement project in Ladang Byram, Seberang Perai Selatan (SPS), costing RM18.4 million and involving the construction of terraced houses, a school, and the relocation of a temple.
The Chief Minister highlighted that this project aims to enhance living standards for the predominantly Indian community and underscores the state government’s dedication to equitable development. Human capital empowerment remains a primary focus, with scholarships awarded to 3,755 students between 2010 and 2024 under the Penang Hindu Endowments Board (HEB), totaling RM4.92 million.
In terms of religious and cultural support, Chow affirmed the state’s ongoing commitment to the development of non-Muslim houses of worship and Hindu temples, recognizing their role as centers of unity and cultural heritage. The state has also allocated resources to improve facilities and support programs, including those for Tamil schools.
At the federal level, Budget 2026 includes measures to bolster the Indian community, such as the Indian Women Entrepreneur Empowerment Programme (PENN) with a RM100 million allocation, and socio-economic programs under the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA).