Penang still requires govt funding: CM

GEORGE TOWN: Penang will continue to require public funding despite the perception in Putrajaya that the state is more developed compared to its northern region neighbours (Perlis, Kedah and Perak).
Rather, the state needs strategic funding to cope with the rigours of development, said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow (pix).
Chow revealed that he had attended a series of federal meetings last week where Penang was singled out as the better-developed one, hence funding may be smaller compared to other neighbouring states.
Chow intends to continue seeking strategic federal funding, especially for public infrastructure and social amenities.
He said this after opening Bukit Bendera MP Wong Hon Wai's service centre
Penang has paid a price for its rapid development with congested roads, fears over excess hillslope development, solid waste management, a flawed drainage system and constant flooding with some blame accorded to climate change.
Chow also said that he too was unhappy that there are some elements within the civil service and inexperienced Pakatan Harapan leaders, who have uttered remarks which had offended the people.
He said that to steady the country, it will require between three to 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 the changes. But real and meaningful change takes 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, which buried alive four foreign construction workers with an additional five more listed as missing, Chow said that the amendments to the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 was crucial in trying to penalise errant contractors.
The amendments will provide for a fine of RM100,000 to those who cause damage to any public road belonging to the local authorities.
But importantly, Chow said that the monitoring mechanism at sensitive ecology areas needs to be efficient and effective.
Chow said that the local authorities need to double their enforcement on construction sites in the state and blacklist contractors.