Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik sworn in as Penang exco, taking over trade and community unity portfolios in a state cabinet reshuffle.

GEORGE TOWN: Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik was sworn in as a Penang state executive council member today.

The ceremony was held before Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib at Seri Mutiara.

Goh replaces Pantai Jerejak assemblyman Fahmi Zainol, who has been relieved of his duties.

Following the appointment, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced a restructuring of portfolios among three state executive council members.

He said Goh has been entrusted with the Trade and Community Unity portfolio.

Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid will now oversee Islamic Religious Development, Education and Higher Education, and Cooperative Development.

Datuk Rashidi Zinol will lead the Rural Development, Agrotechnology and Food Security, and Entrepreneurship portfolio.

Chow expressed hope the reshuffle would align the state government’s work with the principle of collective responsibility.

He said it ensures the entire leadership team remains united in advancing the Penang 2030 agenda.

Goh, 52, said he is committed to carrying out his responsibilities with full dedication.

He noted sustainable economic development and community harmony are key to ensuring Penang remains a stable, progressive and prosperous state.

“In the area of trade, priority will be given to strengthening the local business ecosystem and supporting small and medium enterprises,” he said.

He added this will involve continuing close cooperation with federal agencies like MITI and MATRADE.

“In addressing the cost of living, the state government will also work closely with KPDN,” Goh stated.

This cooperation will ensure initiatives related to price control and consumer protection are implemented effectively.

On community unity, Goh said the state government would strengthen cooperation with the MPKK and KRT.

This will ensure grassroots voices and community needs are effectively conveyed to the state administration.

Goh has been the Bukit Tambun assemblyman since 2018.

He is also chairman of the Penang PKR State Leadership Council and a member of the PKR Central Leadership Council.

On March 4, Chow announced Fahmi’s termination as a state executive council member.

This followed an official letter from PKR secretary-general Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh requesting his replacement.

The request came after court charges were filed against Fahmi.

On Feb 27, Fahmi, who is Penang PKR vice-chairman, pleaded not guilty at the Balik Pulau Magistrate’s Court.

He was charged with voluntarily causing injury to his wife.

The court allowed him bail of RM2,000 with one surety and fixed April 28 for mention.

 The Sun Malaysia