Anwar, Koh pay tribute to Chet Singh, Penang industrialisation pioneer

Penang has developed into a world-class hub for electrical and electronics industries, largely due to the efforts of former Penang Development Corporation general manager Datuk Seri Chet Singh Karam Singh, who passed away at the age of 90. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim paid tribute to Chet Singh, acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping the state's industrial development.

As the inaugural general manager of PDC, Chet Singh was instrumental in establishing industrial zones, luring foreign investments, and transforming Penang into a global leader in electrical and electronics manufacturing. He also generated employment opportunities, stimulated economic growth, and established the groundwork for Malaysia's industrial advancement.

Former Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon described Chet Singh as the architect of Penang's industrialization, highlighting his critical contribution to the state's transformation. Koh recounted their first encounter during the 1982 general election, when Chet Singh offered his assistance to residents and social organizations impacted by the Komtar development project.

Koh further described Chet's compassion, particularly towards the underprivileged, and their strengthened collaboration after Koh's appointment as political secretary to Lim in 1986. Chet Singh's guidance played a vital role in Koh's inaugural investment trip to Silicon Valley, where he met key investors and learned strategies to attract their investments or expansions.

After leaving PDC in 1992, Chet Singh continued his work as an industrial development consultant for developing nations and was nominated as a senator by Gerakan in 1995, serving two terms. He also became a founding member of the Wawasan Education Foundation, which established Wawasan Open University, and served on its board until 2024 due to health issues.