Penang's rapid development has left some communities feeling left behind, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. Despite the state's strong economic growth since 2008, residents in certain areas claim things are no different for them. Chow urges DAP and government leaders to stay close to the people and remain sensitive to their needs, emphasizing that public support for the state government can only be strengthened by working hard at the grassroots level. He hopes leaders will always be sensitive to the people's voices and help them overcome local issues. Human resources minister Steven Sim adds that political parties should never take public support for granted, and that tangible results are more important than rhetoric. The government's focus is on ensuring ordinary workers prosper through higher minimum wages, social protection, and free rehabilitation services. Chow also emphasizes the importance of DAP leaders listening to the people and focusing on solving everyday problems such as flooding, traffic congestion, water supply, and housing repairs. By improving performance on the ground, leaders can reinforce public confidence in the DAP-led state government.
