GEORGE TOWN, Dec 21 — Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah attended a dinner function with the Penang state government’s leaders in Shangri-la Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Batu Ferringhi near here, today.

Their Majesties were accompanied by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and wife Toh Puan Majimor Shariff, and Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and wife Tan Lean Kee.

Also attending the event were state leaders including Members of Parliament, council members and the state’s administration senior officials.

In His Majesty’s speech, Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed his gratitude and appreciation because this was the first time Their Majesties visited Penang after being installed as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong in July.

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His Majesty said Penang once was only an island that served as a central port and port of call to traders during the 18th century, now the state is growing progressively aligned with the rapid development and economy today.

“Throughout this two-day working visit, I admit that I am very amazed with the rapid development achieved by Penang. Through my visits to several places around Penang, I found that development in this state is very rapid besides the modern infrastructure built. 

“Apart from that, Penang also displayed a very positive economic growth as mentioned by the Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow regarding Penang Vision 2030, I believe with the enthusiasm and commitment showed by the state government, this vision will be realized.

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“.. and what is more important is that the people’s well being is taken care of. With this I pray that Penang under the Yang Dipertua Negeri and the chief minister will continue to make the state as a role model to other states,” said His Majesty.

Al-Sultan Abdullah also shared his experience visiting the Bukit Bendera which he described as an attractive and amazing tourist location with the construction of Habitat in the area.

“I was very amazed when I got to spend some time in Bukit Bendera. Truthfully the last time I went to Bukit Bendera was about 45 years ago. I was very amazed and that was one of the reasons why I went down a bit late because I had a long walk there, the sky walk and the canopy walk were definitely very high and Curtist Crest was amazing,” he said.

His Majesty also reminded the people to maintain the unity and spirit of muhibbah achieved by the country for the past 62 years, as issues related to racism, sensitivity and religions were often raised lately.

“We have gone so far, we have enjoyed 62 years of independence. We need to look forward and before Christmas arrives, before the end of the year perhaps you can renew friendship and relationship. It is important to apply this sentiment to all races, politicians and I hope this will be a reminder to us including myself, most importantly to see a united Malaysia,” said His Majesty.

During the dinner Their Majesties were entertained by cultural dances and singing performance by guest artistes. — Bernama