‘We’ll tear it down if it’s illegal’

“IF THERE is no approval, action will be taken and the building will be torn down,” Penang Environment, Welfare and Caring Society Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh told the state assembly yesterday.

He was referring to a seaside restaurant in Pantai Bersih operating on the beach without approval, which was raised by Datuk Jahara Hamid (BN-Teluk Air Tawar).

The Penang opposition leader had questioned why seemingly no action had been taken despite 22 notices issued by the North Seberang Perai District and Land Office.

She said the structure was a big seafood restaurant and people there had protested and complained while the building was being constructed. “Reports were lodged. “We conducted demos but the place is still in operation.

“The state government is being ignored,” she said.

Penang Local Government, Traffic Management and Flood Mitigation Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said there is no special consideration in this case and action will be taken.

Turning to face state government officers at the assembly, he told the Seberang Perai Municipal Council (MPSP) and relevant authorities to “ambil tindakan” (take action).

“MPSP, District Office, just take action.

“Do not let the image of the Penang government be affected by non-action,” he said.

He told the assemblymen not to accuse the administration of being callous when action is taken.