Penang opposition rep defends proposal for 30% salary raise

Telok Air Tawar assemblyman Azmi Alang said his request for a 30% salary increase to cover various expenses would benefit both government and opposition representatives. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

Telok Air Tawar assemblyman Azmi Alang has defended his proposal for an increase in salary for elected representatives in Penang amid criticism from netizens who cite the cost of living challenges being faced by the people.

The Perikatan Nasional (PN) assemblyman said that the basic salary of around RM11,250 a month, together with additional allowances for administrative costs, was still lower than that of other states.

He said the salaries of assemblymen in Penang were relatively low despite Penang’s status as one of the more developed states, especially for opposition representatives whom he said lacked the substantial allocations enjoyed by their government counterparts.

“Those commenting on TikTok don’t understand,” he told FMT.

“I’m asking for a raise because the pay is too low. Other states offer all sorts of allowances… and we also use our salaries to help the people.

“Some constituents ask for help with glasses or rice. Where does the money come from? As opposition assembly members, we need at least an additional RM10,000 monthly.”

He said that just recently, he had helped repair 24 houses following a storm.

“During the floods, I contributed RM200 for cleaning efforts,” he added.

Azmi also said that his request for a 30% increase in salary to cover various expenses would benefit both government and opposition representatives.

During the Penang state assembly sitting last month, Azmi had suggested that Penang follow Negeri Sembilan’s example in raising the salaries of its chief minister, state executive councillors, and assemblymen.

His speech, which was shared on TikTok, drew criticism from netizens who said that the increase was unnecessary, particularly given the financial difficulties faced by the people due to the rising cost of living.

The last salary adjustment for Penang assemblymen was in 2015 – an increase from RM6,000 to RM11,250 per month. Opposition representatives also receive an annual allocation of RM60,000.

Azmi expressed hope that allocations for opposition representatives would be standardised to match at least 60% to 70% of the RM500,000 currently provided for government representatives each year.

“That money isn’t for personal use, but to assist the people,” he said. - FMT