Tunnel debate organised by Penang govt turns tense after provocation

GEORGE TOWN: The debate on the three highways and undersea tunnel project held here at the Kompleks Masyarakat Penyayang here, which started well turned sour and tense when the state government's representative began to use foul language.
A commotion also broke out when State Works, Utilities and Transport Committee chairman Lim Hock Seng (pix) scolded his opponent, Gerakan secretary-general Datuk Liang Teck Meng, using offensive words of 'bodoh' (stupid) and 'celaka' (damn).
Liang said he was disappointed with Lim, an experienced elected representative, for failing to argue with logic and rationality.
He said Lim did not answer any questions raised about the construction of the undersea tunnel and the three major highways.
"I was excited on the opportunity to be able to debate tonight so that the people can understand more about the project, but I was disappointed with Lim's behavior and debate, in which he used offensive words," he told reporters after the debate here yesterday.
The debate moderated by Lee Khai, was attended by over a thousand supporters from both parties, which among other things, aimed to discuss the Penang Transportation Project worth RM27 billion. — Bernama