Chow to succeed Lim as Penang CM
GEORGE TOWN: Penang DAP chairman Chow Kon Yeow will be the state’s new chief minister, succeeding Lim Guan Eng, who is now finance minister in Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s Cabinet.
Chow will become the fifth chief executive of the state.
Lim said an official swearing-in ceremony will be held today at Seri Mutiara, the official residence of the Yang di-Pertua Negri, Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas.
He expressed confidence that Chow’s leadership will take Penang to greater heights.
Lim said the state’s debts had been reduced during his 10-year administration, adding that he foresees the mainland will become an important hub in future.
He said this was proven after Pakatan Harapan (PH) not only won 37 state and 11 parliamentary seats but also received majority support from voters in Barisan Nasional strongholds.
Lim urged the people to attend his farewell ceramah tonight at the Esplanade, during which he will “pass the torch” to Chow.
“Although, I will start at a new job soon, Penang will always be in my heart. I will always come back here as you can take me out of Penang but you cannot take Penang out of me,” the newly-elected Bagan MP and Air Putih assemblyman said.
Chow expressed hope the state and newly formed federal government will have a good relationship.
“With Lim as finance minister, we hope the state can get more funding for flood mitigation projects,” he said.
Chow, 59, has been the state exco member in charge of Local Government, Traffic Management and Flood Mitigation since 2008.