Penang Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Chow Kon Yeow has cautioned the coalition against complacency, warning that its two-decade hold on the state is no guarantee of victory in the 16th General Election (GE16).
The Penang Chief Minister said the country’s political landscape has shifted dramatically, pointing to the recent Sabah elections as evidence of how rapidly voter sentiment can change.
“In Sabah, we can observe to some extent how easily voter sentiment can change, and although elected representatives have long served the people, that is no guarantee of retaining victory in their respective seats,” he said.
“Today, people want to see not just slogans, but leadership that can bring stability, development and confidence in the future of the state.”
Speaking at the Pakatan Harapan 2026 National Convention at the Persada International Convention Centre here on Sunday (17 May), Chow said he has chosen to practise responsible politics rather than popularity politics despite being in his final term as Chief Minister.
He acknowledged he could have taken the easy route by deferring difficult decisions to preserve political favour, but instead opted to continue implementing key policies to keep Penang’s financial position and infrastructure development strong.
“Some have said I could choose comfortable politics (since this is my final term). But I did not choose that path. I chose to continue with decisions I believe are important for Penang’s future, even if they may cause short-term dissatisfaction,” he said.
Chow also warned that Perikatan Nasional (PN) is intensifying its push into Penang, particularly through PAS and Gerakan, targeting Malay-majority areas in Seberang Perai and Balik Pulau. He said PN is building political momentum by exploiting local issues — the cost of living, water tariffs, land tax and sentiments against “urban elites” — to sway public support.
“The next general election is not just about who campaigns the hardest. It is about who the people trust to lead when times are difficult,” he said.
“This state needs mature, stable leadership that is willing to make decisions for the people’s future, even if it involves taking political risks.”
Chow stressed the importance of strengthening PH-Barisan Nasional cooperation under the unity government framework and preparing for future leadership succession beyond his tenure to maintain political stability in Penang.
Convened under the theme “Tekad Madani, Harapan Rakyat” (Madani Resolve, People’s Hope), the gathering drew approximately 5,000 delegates and leaders from across the country. Prime Minister and PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to deliver the keynote address, with other speakers including DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and PH secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
Source: The Star
