GEORGE TOWN: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah attended a dinner function with members of the Penang state government at the Shangri-la Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa at Batu Ferringhi near here, on Saturday night.
Their Majesties were accompanied by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and wife Toh Puan Majimor Shariff; and Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and wife Tan Lean Kee.
Also at the dinner were state leaders, including Members of Parliament, council members, and senior officials of the state administration.
In his speech, Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed his gratitude to the Penang leaders for welcoming him on his first visit to Penang since being installed as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in July.
His Majesty also remarked that Penang, which once served as a central port and port of call for traders in the 18th century, has developed into a booming economic centre.
"Throughout this two-day working visit, I admit that I am very amazed with the rapid development achieved by Penang. Through my visits to several places around Penang, I found that development in this state is very rapid.
"Apart from that, Penang also displayed a very positive economic growth as mentioned by the Chief Minister regarding Penang Vision 2030. I believe with the enthusiasm and commitment showed by the state government, this vision will be realized.
".. and what is more important is that the people's wellbeing is taken care of. With this, I pray that Penang under the Yang Dipertua Negeri and the Chief Minister will continue to make the state as a role model to other states," said His Majesty.
Al-Sultan Abdullah also shared his experience visiting the Bukit Bendera which he described as an attractive and amazing tourist location.
"I was delighted to be able to spend some time in Bukit Bendera. Truthfully, the last time I went to Bukit Bendera was about 45 years ago. I was very amazed and that was one of the reasons why I went down a bit late because I was enjoying the long walk there. The sky walk and the canopy walk were definitely very high and Curtist Crest was amazing," he said.
His Majesty also reminded the people to stay united and uphold the spirit of muhibbah achieved by the country for the past 62 years.
"We have gone so far, we have enjoyed 62 years of independence. We need to look forward and before Christmas arrives, before the end of the year perhaps you can renew friendship and relationship.
“It is important to apply this sentiment to all races, politicians... and I hope this will be a reminder to us including myself, most importantly to see a united Malaysia," said His Majesty.
During the dinner Their Majesties were entertained by cultural dances and singing performance by guest artistes.