Penang

On whether the change in the state government will affect federal funding for the state, Lim said he hoped that would not be the case as it is a constitutional requirement to channel funds for state development.

On transparency:

The state government will implement an open tender system for government procurement and contracts.

"Government procurement will only be awarded through open tender, and priority will be given to Penang-incorporated contractors. An online portal will be set up to publish the list of qualified contractors and will also display relevant details and tendering process for public scrutiny.

The Chief Minister, state exco members, Speaker and Deputy Speaker, together with the respective heads of Penang Island and Seberang Perai Municipal Councils (MPPP and MPSP) will have to publicly declare their personal assets

To reduce the burdens of the lower-income group, all summonses for illegal hawking and parking offences issued by the state's two municipal councils before March 11 (today) waived.


"The waiver of the arrears is just a one-time policy decision to show we care for you but we want the people to adhere to the law from today onwards.

"If there are any illegal acts, they must pay for it. We want the law to take its course," Lim said.
He did not know how much the "angpow" would cost the state but assured the people this move did not deprive the state of its income

source: the Sun