Published on: Sunday, April 15, 2007 |
Kota Kinabalu: Several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) expressed sadness over Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat's sudden resignation as a Deputy Chief Minister as well as Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment.
Advisor to the Sabah Women Entrepreneurs and Professionals Association (Swepa), Datuk Nancy Ho said Chong was truly a tourism ambassador who was focused and committed in his mission of putting Sabah on the world map.
"As a strong marketeer, he was synonymous with tourism promotion and we are proud of his achievements.
"When the tourism industry does well, it boosts the local economy and provides business opportunities for entrepreneurs like us.
"We feel sorry that he has to call it quits at a time when his commendable efforts are beginning to bear more fruit," she said.
Junior Chamber International (JCI) Malaysia Vice-President (Area Sabah), Paul Hen, said his premature exit from the Cabinet was a loss to society.
"His immense contributions over the yearsÉhis wealth of knowledge and experience will be sorely missed. We feel sad."
Chong has supported the Jaycees movement in one way or another, he said, adding "Only last month, we were assured of his Ministry's support for our "Promote Sabah" programme in the coming JCI Asia-Pacific Conference in Taiwan."
President of the Sabah Agape Counselling Association. Ooi Hiu Min is saddened over Chong's decision to quit his Cabinet posts, given the latter's prominent role in Sabah and good relationship with the Federal Government.
"Our association values his help, support and contribution as a friend, supporter and mentor."
He noted that Chong, as a Minister, had not only promoted tourism but also encouraged cultural performances through generous sponsorship of some of the activities.
Even though the Minister is a Buddhist, he supports international conferences involving Christians from the Chinese community, said an NGO activist who spoke on condition of anonymity.
"His resignation is a great loss to the Chinese community."
In KUDAT, Secretary of the District Girl Guides Association, Doreen Lee said with Chong's support during his tenure as Chief Minister, the movement's dream of having its own premises became a reality.
"Apart from approving a government allocation, he went out of his way to help us raise funds through a fund-raising dinner. We really appreciate his gesture."
Even when Chong was Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, he had assisted the district's Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Centre.
"He came to our aid when we needed money to buy some equipment for our centre," said a spokesman.
