GEORGE TOWN, April 21 — The Penang state government is committed to upholding Islam as the religion of the federation with an allocation of RM75.08 million for its development, said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow today.
He said the allocation this year was increased by RM3.95 million compared to 2022 to manage, develop mosques, surau and Islamic religious education institutions. and also to implement related programmes in the state.
“Aside from the mosques that are under construction now, seven more mosques costing RM18 million to be funded by the state government will be built between now and 2025,” he said in his Hari Raya Aidilfitri address here.
He said the state government has allocated RM3.5 million to eight categories of Islamic religious schools in the state this year.
“It is hoped that with these plans that are underway, it will bring about a positive impact for the wellbeing of Muslims in Penang as a whole,” he said.
In wishing the Muslims in the state Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chow hoped this would be a time for harmony and unity among families and the local communities.
He said the state will continue to develop the state as per its Vision Penang 2030 alongside the federal government’s Malaysia Madani concept.
He thanked Penangites for supporting Vision Penang 2030 since it was introduced in 2018.
“To face the challenges of the future and to place Penang on the world map, I call on everyone to move in line with the federal government based on the aspects of sustainability, prosperity, creativity, respect and confidence towards a better Malaysia for our future generation,” he said.
He also expressed his gratitude towards the health and security personnel on duty during the festivities.
“Those who are on the way home to be with their loved ones, please drive safely and arrive safely at your destination,” he said.
