JOHOR BAHRU, May 17 — Penang Pakatan Harapan chairman Chow Kon Yeow has reminded the coalition not to be lulled into complacency by its dominance in the state over the past two decades, but instead to prepare for a tougher fight in the 16th general election (GE16).
The Penang Chief Minister said Malaysia's political landscape has changed drastically, with voter sentiment shifting, as seen in the recent Sabah election results.
“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.
“Today, people want to see not just slogans, but leadership that can bring stability, development and confidence in the future of the state,” he said in his speech during the Harapan Convention 2026 at the Persada International Convention Centre today.
In line with this shift in political sentiment, Chow said he has chosen to practise responsible politics rather than popularity politics, despite being in his final term as Chief Minister.
He noted that he could have taken the easy route by postponing difficult decisions to preserve political popularity, but instead chose to continue implementing key policies to ensure the state’s financial position and infrastructure development remain 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,” Chow said.
He also cautioned that Perikatan Nasional (PN) is intensifying efforts to expand its influence in Penang, particularly through PAS and Gerakan, with a focus on Malay-majority areas in Seberang Perai and Balik Pulau.
PN is attempting to build political momentum by highlighting local issues such as the cost of living, water tariffs, land tax, and sentiments related to “urban elites” to sway public support in the state.
“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.
“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 said.
He also touched on the importance of strengthening Harapan-Barisan Nasional cooperation under the Unity Government framework, as well as preparing future leadership succession beyond the Chief Minister’s tenure to ensure continued political stability in Penang.
Held under the theme 'Tekad MADANI, Harapan Rakyat' (MADANI Resolve, People’s Hope), the Harapan Convention 2026 gathered about 5,000 delegates and leaders from across the country.
Prime Minister cum Harapan chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to deliver the keynote address and officiate at the convention this afternoon.
Among the leaders expected to speak are DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, and Harapan secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
