Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has expressed disappointment that the RM100 million federal allocation to develop the cable car system on Penang Hill has been cancelled.
Chow (above) said the move will certainly have an impact on Penang.
"I am extremely disappointed by the decision of the federal government.
"It would not only have an impact on the continuation of the Bukit Bendera development plan, but also the Penang economy in general," he said during a press conference today.
"The federal government seems to be punishing the people of Penang on this issue," he added.
Chow was referring to the allocation announced by the then Pakatan Harapan federal government through former finance minister Lim Guan Eng in the 2020 Budget last October.
As a result of the announcement, Penang carried out the pre-feasibility study of the cable car project.
The study is still ongoing and is expected to be completed by the second half of this year, Chow said.
"All information, data and suggestions from this study will now be filed for future use."
Penang's environmental NGOs including Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) and the Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) had strongly objected to the Penang Hills-Botanic Gardens cable car project which was expected to kick off this year.
Activists had called for a comprehensive study on the environmental and social impacts of the project on both the Penang Hill and the Botanic Gardens prior to the state government going ahead with it.
Chow said in the wake of the economic downturn caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the implementation of public infrastructure projects will stimulate the local market.
Such projects will provide employment opportunities and various ripple effects on the development of the state economy.
Despite the bad news, he said the Penang government will continue discussions with Putrajaya on the issue.
"It is in the interest of the people and the state.
"The federal government should ensure that allocation to the state is increased to help the people overcome the economic challenges caused by the Covid-19 outbreak.
"Without consulting with the state government and without the full response of the Penang people, the federal government has abolished important provisions," Chow said. - Mkini
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.