GEORGE TOWN, Sept 22 – Chow Kon Yeow, who will be stepping down as Penang DAP chairman after 25 years of service, urged the newly elected leader and team, chosen by delegates in the state party elections today, to remain united and ensure that the party stays relevant in Penang politics.
The Penang Chief Minister said delegates are voting for the party’s future, aiming to maintain its position as the party of choice to lead the Penang state government.
“As I hand over the leadership baton today, I urge all of us to prioritise the interests of the party and the people above our own. We have achieved much and we must continue to persevere with dedication and commitment.
“We must be guided by the party vision and mission and always respect the people. Do not take things for granted and stay true to the party’s struggle,” he said during his address at the Penang DAP Ordinary Convention at Bayan Lepas today.
Chow, who is also the National DAP vice-chairman noted that Penang DAP has undergone great transformation over the past 25 years especially after gaining power as the state government in 2008. The party has also grown exponentially, expanding from just 20 branches to nearly 300 today.
Recalling his earliar days, Chow said he had the privilege of serving as Penang DAP chairman for 25 years after the disastrous Tanjong 3 electoral debacle and the shocking defeat of Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang and Datuk Seri Karpal Singh at the 1999 general election.
“I was 41 years old then and the responsibility to continue the DAP’s political struggle rested on my shoulders and my team. We were in the opposition and it was most challenging to keep the fighting spirit alive.
“I am indeed thankful to the party and delegates for their support and for allowing me the opportunity to lead for 25 long years. Prior to that, I served as state secretary for eight years,” he added.
