‘We still need funding’

> Federal allocation required despite perception Penang was ‘more developed’, says chief minister

GEORGE TOWN: Penang will still require public funding despite the perception in Putrajaya that the state was more developed compared to Perlis, Kedah and Perak.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state will continue seeking federal funding, for public infrastructure and social amenities.

At the opening of Bukit Bendera MP Wong Hon Wai’s service centre yesterday, Chow also said he was unhappy that there were some individuals in the civil service and inexperienced Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders who have made comments that had offended the people.

He said that to steady the country, it will require between three and four years, as PH proceeds to right the wrongs of the previous administration.

“I know the people have been waiting for 61 years to see changes. But real and meaningful changes take time.”

Chow urged PH leaders to keep an open mind and to hear the voices of discontent among the grassroots over issues plaguing the state and country.

On the landslide in Bukit Kukus, Chow said amendments to the Street, Drainage and Building Act was crucial to penalise errant contractors.

The amendments will provide for a fine of RM100,000 to those who cause damage to any road belonging to local authorities.

He said monitoring mechanism at sensitive areas need to be efficient and effective, adding that local authorities need to double their enforcement efforts at construction sites in the state and blacklist errant contractors.