Monday, May 21 2012
Penang sets up first non-Islamic religious affairs portfolio
Sunday, 20 February 2011 22:57

THE Penang state government has set up a non-Islamic religious affairs state executive council portfolio, the first in the country. The portfolio was established in conjunction with the United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week. Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng will head it.

"Despite our differences," said Lim. "We are united by our common aspirations for good practices and universal moral values of peace, justice, moderation and harmony." The portfolio was presented by Deputy Chief Minister II P Ramasamy, who will also serve as the department's deputy. Read here.

Among those who have come out in support of the news is Selangor state executive councilor Dr Xavier Jayakumar. "The central aim and objectives of the committee for non-Muslim affairs is to promote greater inter-faith understanding and build strong working relationships between all non-Muslim religious bodies and the state governments," he said. Read here.

The announcement has come under fire by Utusan Malaysia claiming that it will be used to sideline Muslims. Read here.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon dismissed the announcement. "(Lim) is just trying to pull off a publicty stunt," he told reporters. Read here.

Penang in top 10 list

Penang has been included in Yahoo!'s list of "10 Islands to Explore Before You Die". The list, which ranks Penang ahead of Galapagos and Palm Islands Dubai and is one of two Asian islands in the list, hails Penang's "fusion of cultures" that is evident in its architecture and food. "The delectable fare on offer memorably mingles Malaysian, Chinese, Indian and European flavours," it said.

Jagdeep Singh, Penang Tourism committee deputy chairman, welcomed the announcement. "It is certainly a welcome recognition, especially after George Town has been bestowed World Heritage Site status by Unesco." Read here.

Other news

  • Guan Eng wants allocation details under Tenth Malaysia Plan: Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng wants the federal government to provide the details of the allocation for the state under the 10th Malaysian Plan. Read here.
  • Penang govt warns of possible surcharge on garbage management: The state government is calling on Penangites to support its decision to reject the privatisation of solid waste management as it could lead to their bearing unnecessary additional expenses. Read here.
  • PBA Q4 net profit soars more than sixfold: Penang-based water utility PBA Holdings Bhd’s net profit for fourth quarter ended December 31 2010 soared more than sixfold to RM12.5 million from RM1.9 million a year ago due to increased in sale of water revenue and gains from a land sale. Read here.
  • Feedback on FOI will be considered: Hit by a volley of criticism from Gerakan over alleged loopholes in the state’s Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, the chairman of the legislation’s select committee has assured that feedback from all interested quarters will be considered before it is finalised. Read here.
  • The char koay teow legacy: How do hawkers ensure their signature dishes thrive on long after they retire? In Penang, some famous char koay teow sellers have passed on their skills to their children or apprentices. Read here.

For more news on Penang, please click through to iGT NetBuzz Feb 14 to 20, 2011 here. For daily updates, "like" iGeorgeTown on Facebook or join us on Twitter.  

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