Zambry says shift in MB residence proposed by others

IPOH: Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said the proposal to shift the Mentri Besar's official residence in Jalan Raja Hilir is not his doing.
In stressing that it was never raised by him, Zambry clarified that the proposal was suggested by other quarters taking into consideration the security aspects.
"Many quarters including security entities had put forward the proposal to move the residence to a more secured site," he told reporters after attending the Perak Gerakan Chinese New Year Open House here today.
The reasons behind the proposal were among others security as it is located in the heart of the town and surrounded by buildings including high rise structures and traffic congestion which is further aggravated when there is a public event at the residence with 5,000 to 10,000 people converging.
"However we will look into all proposals and suggestions ... we have not seriously thought about it or discussed the matter," said Zambry.
He was commenting on the statement by Perak PAS chairman who said there is no need to shift the Mentri Besar's residence and security is not a question.
"I do not know what was in his mind when he made the statement that security of the Mentri Besar is not important ... because maybe he had not become the Mentri Besar yet. The statement gives an impression that I am keen to shift the residence and build a new one. It is not about Zambry but the Perak Mentri Besar and the institution," said Zambry.
He also pointed out there were some incidences of intrusion into the residence in the past.
He said shifting or construction of the new residence should not involve the rakyat's money and furthermore one need to take into account the current economic situation.
According to him a location was proposed earlier. "We are not in serious mode on the matter ... we will look at the proposals and decide whether to proceed."
He also noted there is also a possibility of a swap with the present residence converted into a commercial site and use the funds to build the new residence.
Some 1,500 people from all walks of life attended the Perak Gerakan Chinese New Year Open House held at the Town Hall.
The crowd were entertained to a lion dance, songs and Chinese yo yo skill display besides a wide spread of Chinese delicacies and other Malaysian dishes such as nasi briyani.
Also present were Gerakan President and Minister In the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Mah Siew Keong, Gerakan adviser Tan Sri Chang Ko Youn, Perak Gerakan chairman Soo Kay Ping and other BN component party leaders.