ALOR SETAR: A Kedah opposition assemblyman today criticised menteri besar Sanusi Md Nor for practising double standards in his position on ketum-leaves smuggling, which is illegal, compared with his action against legal 4D gaming shops in the state.
In debating the sultan’s address at the state assembly today, Tan Kok Yew (PH-Derga) started by complimenting Sanusi for his idea in exporting ketum leaves to Thailand to stem smuggling.
He said Sanusi must have expended a lot of effort in drawing up the terms to legalise the oft-abused controlled item, which was said to be of superior grade suitable for medical purposes.
“What puzzles me is, if the menteri besar could use this method to stop the smuggling of ketum leaves, why did he tackle other issues differently?
“On the issue of gambling, the menteri besar halted the renewal of licences, citing it as a bad influence despite all 4D gaming shops being permitted under the law. As a result of his action, a lot of illegal betting has sprung up.
“So, if ketum exports are allowed, what is the guarantee there will be no more substance abuse and smuggling taking place?” Tan asked.
He then mocked Sanusi on the issue of the RM62 billion rare-earth element venture which the menteri besar announced two years ago, asking if Kedah had made a single sen from it so far.
“There is a difference between being smart and being silly. Although you are not from our party, you are our menteri besar. So don’t embarrass our state with your conduct,” he said.
Recently, maritime officials seized 2.2 tonnes of ketum leaves worth RM400,000 headed for Thailand.
Home minister Hamzah Zainudin had also said “no” to Sanusi’s proposal for the banned substance to be exported to Thailand.
On the other hand, Kedah effectively banned 4D gaming shops last November after ordering local councils to stop renewing their business licences “to tackle the ills resulting from gambling”. - FMT
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