.png)
PENANG PKR vice-chairman Goh Choon Aik was officially sworn in today as the state’s newest executive councillor before the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Ramli Ngah Taib, in a ceremony held at the Seri Mutiara official residence on Jalan Utama.
The 52-year-old took his oath in the presence of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and other senior state leaders, marking his entry into the Penang state executive council following a recent reshuffle.
In his first remarks after the ceremony, Goh expressed appreciation to Prime Minister and PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for supporting his appointment.
He also pledged his commitment to serving the people of Penang to the best of his ability.
Chow later announced adjustments to several portfolios within the state administration.
The sole Umno representative in the state government, Sungai Acheh assemblyman Rashidi Zinol, has been assigned responsibility for rural development, agrotechnology, food security, and entrepreneurship.
Goh, meanwhile, has been entrusted with overseeing trade and national unity.
Most other portfolios remain unchanged. Chow continues to lead key areas including finance, economic development, land, and communications.
Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Prof Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid will handle religious development, education, higher education, and a newly added responsibility for co-operative development.
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo retains oversight of human capital development as well as science and technology.
Goh’s appointment follows the removal of Pantai Jerejak assemblyman Fahmi Zainol from the executive council earlier this week. Fahmi, also from PKR, was relieved of his duties after being charged in court with one count of domestic abuse.
He has pleaded not guilty to the charge and remains free after posting bail of RM2,000 with one surety.
Separately, there have been no new developments from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission regarding an investigation into an alleged controversial land transaction linked to Mohamad Abdul Hamid.
Authorities previously recorded his statement in connection with claims involving a land sale tied to zakat funds under the state religious affairs council, but the anti-corruption agency has yet to issue further updates on the probe. - March 6, 2026