Penang’s economic and socio-political achievements is due to the collective effort of its people. Whilst Penang is on its way towards achieving a developed state and high-income economy by 2020, this successes will count for nothing if there is no sense of ownership by all. We must all dream the same dreams – the Penang Dream.
The Penang Dream is people-centric and rules-based, focusing on three key groups of individual, community and institutions. The Penang Dream is committed towards:-
- National Unity based on common principles of justice, democracy, freedom, universal moral values, integrity in leadership and human dignity.
- Economic growth where the resources are shared with the people and not monopolised by a few cronies;
- Social harmony that celebrates diversity and inclusive growth as a strength for social cohesion and compassion;
- Sustainable development to ensure a clean, green, safe and healthy habitat; and
- Community effort and individual enterprise that rewards excellence and diligence as well as provide equal opportunities to ensure that everyone can realise his and her potential.
The mechanism of the Penang Dream can only be strengthened and reinforced by rules-based institutions. For instance the Federal and State Constitution, apart from upholding the supremacy of Parliament, the Royalty and Islam as the religion of the Federation can also protects these 5 commitments. These institutions such as rule of law, severe punishment for corruption and abuse of power gives hope for a better tomorrow for all and a brighter future for our young.
In pledging our total and undivided loyalty to the Yang di Pertuan Agong, the Governor and the State Constitution, we will also work hard to realise this Penang Dream. Let Penang be the platform where all our dreams can come true!