By V.  Sivaji 

Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow graced the annual corporate social responsibility (CSR) project hosted by the Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry Penang in conjunction with Deepavali.

He was given a traditional welcome with a silk shawl and garland

Welcoming the chief minister was received by MICCI president Dato S Parthiban and his committee members. Along the way to the premises of the MICCI building, Chow also took the opportunity to visit some of the business establishments in the area.

Some 150 recipients from the underprivileged families were presented with grocery items and also RM20 as pocket money. 

“In the past, we only presented around 80 people with household items but this year due to donors and well-wishers  we managed to increase the number.

“We are also preparing to celebrate our 100 years anniversary next year in a grand manner,” said Partiban in his address.

He also thanked the chief minister for his support and presence at their Deepavali CSR event every year.

Chow in his address wished his Deepavali greetings to the members of MICCI and all those celebrating the Festival of Lights.

“I also take the opportunity to congratulate MICCI on their 100th anniversary next year.

“I commend MICCI for helping the needy community with household goods and other materials with a budget of RM30,000. MICCI has promoted economic growth and served the community irrespective of race or religion, ” said Chow in his address. 

He later presented the hampers to the various representatives. The underprivileged group was also provided with packed biryani meals.