By V.Sivaji
Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, former Tourism Exco in the Penang State Government, was officially inaugurated as the Honorary Consul of Mexico in Penang at a ceremony held at the St Giles Wembley Hotel.
The event was attended by Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow, Ambassador of Mexico to Malaysia H.E. Luis Javier Campuzano Piña, and a host of Consuls-General representing various countries.
Also present were H.E. Mr. Jaime Muñoz Sandoval, Ambassador of Chile to Malaysia and H.E. Mr. Diego Pelufo Acosta y Lara, Ambassador of Uruguay to Malaysia.
More than 350 guests graced the occasion, with many taking the opportunity to pose for photographs with Yeoh.
In his address, Chow congratulated Dato’ Yeoh on his appointment, noting that the role carries significant responsibility.
“As Mexico’s first Honorary Consul in Penang and Malaysia, this appointment comes with an important responsibility to assist His Excellency in strengthening ties between Mexico and Penang, particularly in fostering stronger business and trade connections between Mexicans and Malaysians.
“Trade relations between Penang and Mexico are robust and rapidly growing, with exports dominated by electrical and electronic (E&E) products such as semiconductors and integrated circuits, exceeding RM8 billion between January and September 2025 alone,” he said.
Chow added that although Mexico’s Honorary Consulate in Penang is relatively new, it is a welcome addition to the state’s growing international presence.
“It truly reflects the international tapestry that seamlessly intertwines with Penang’s multicultural society and spirit of diversity.
“I hope there will be opportunities for Mexican cultural festivals, exhibitions and performances to be held in Penang. Just as we are familiar with Mexican staple dishes thanks to the many Mexican restaurants here, I also hope we will welcome more Mexican tourists to enjoy our local culinary delights,” he added.
Meanwhile, Yeoh currently serves as Chairman of the Penang Port Commission (PPC) and Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia.
In his speech, Yeoh expressed his gratitude and pride in being appointed Honorary Consul of Mexico in Penang.
“I view this appointment as a milestone in my personal life journey. It is both a motivation and an inspiration that encourages me to work harder, to be kind, and to be a better man in my personal life.
“I am deeply thankful to the Governments of Mexico and Malaysia for the trust and confidence placed in me. I am committed to doing my very best in discharging my duties,” he said.
Yeoh also pledged to continue contributing to society and to the people of Penang.
“Mexico’s trade ties with Asia are strengthening, unlocking new possibilities across the global supply chain. With surging imports, stronger export capacity and a booming e-commerce market, Mexico is a promising destination for Asia-Pacific businesses seeking cross-border expansion. Mexico is consistently ranked as Malaysia’s largest trading partner in Latin America,” he added.
Guests also took the opportunity to mingle and also enjoy the buffet dinner and live entertainment following the inauguration ceremony.