GEORGE TOWN: The first meeting of the Fourth Session of the 14th Penang Legislative Assembly proceeded smoothly on Monday (Aug 30).

       The ceremony started at about 9.40am with prayers conducted by state assembly secretary Mohd Roshidi Azmi.

       Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak entered the hall as soon as state Speaker Datuk Law Choo Kiang announced his arrival at the newly upgraded state assembly building.

       In his speech, Ahmad Fuzi expressed his appreciation to the eighth Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Seri Utama Majimor Shariff for their contributions and service to the state.

       He thanked the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow saying that he has run the state well during the Covid-19 pandemic.

       "Penang is now in Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan (NRP). I believe the Chief Minister, his state executive councillors and the rest of state government administration can execute their duties well to ensure all services are not affected during this period," he said.

       Ahmad Fuzi also congratulated Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob for his appointment as the ninth Prime Minister of Malaysia recently.

       He hoped that the appointment would ensure political stability so that efforts to address the pandemic and economic crisis could be carried out for the people.

       On Covid-19 vaccination, Ahmad Fuzi thanked the Federal Government for the supply of vaccines.

       He said an adequate supply was critical to ensure the success of the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme.

       He said as of Aug 26, some 1.101 million or 62% of the population in the state have received at least one dose while 711,454 people or 40.1% have been fully vaccinated.

       "The state government is targeting 100% of the population, aged 18 and above, will receive at least one dose by early September," he said.

       Ahmad Fuzi took the opportunity to thank all frontliners who have been working tirelessly in curbing the pandemic.

       He expressed hope that Penang could move into Phase Three of the NRP as soon as possible so that more economic and social activities could resume.

       "Penangites, regardless of race and religion, should prioritise their wellbeing together in a peaceful manner and appreciate the nationhood.

       "In conjunction with National Day, I would like to wish everyone a Happy 64th National Day," he said.

       The meeting was broadcast live on the assembly's website www.sidangdunpenang.com.