Reporters in Penang went on a stakeout after being given a fake tip-off that Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng would be nabbed by the MACC today over the state's undersea tunnel project.
By 3pm, many had gathered at the Komtar Tower's third level where the state's administrative offices are located.
However, nothing happened.
At 6pm, reporters saw Lim leaving Komtar and they duly followed him as he walked towards Penang Road.
The chief minister headed to the famous roadside Toh Soon Cafe, which is a favourite hangout of his after work.
In a jovial mood, Lim then ordered drinks and toasted bread for the press corps who had followed him.
Accompanying him were several DAP leaders, local councillors and his personal staff.
Asked if had waited for MACC officers at his office earlier, Lim replied, "Who said so?"
"But thank you for accompanying me on the short walk here to have coffee with me," Lim quipped.
"Whatever tomorrow brings, let us remember the Penang spirit. We will face it all with equanimity and determination to do what is best, not only for us but for everyone," he added.
On Tuesday, 12 premises, including nine government offices and three private firms involved in the Penang undersea tunnel mega-project were raided by MACC officers from Putrajaya.
Two top-level executives with Datuk titles have since been arrested and remanded for six days to assist in their probe.
It is learnt that the MACC is looking into alleged kickbacks involving state government officials related to the RM6.3 billion tunnel.
Lim had said that no money has yet been paid for the construction of the tunnel as it is only supposed to begin in 2023 and slated for completion in 2027.
He added that the project was awarded to Konsortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd via open tender and that the decision to appoint the firm was made by the state tender committee headed by state secretary Farizan Darus.- Mkini
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