Letter to Editor
THE DAP-led Penang state government must be held accountable for its shocking extravagance—requesting RM100 mil in advance from the federal government while splurging RM3.31 mil on a fleet of brand-new official cars.
On May 20, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow admitted in the State Legislative Assembly that 15 Toyota Camry 2.5V vehicles were purchased for state executive councillors, the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and former officials.
Each car costs over RM220,000, including road tax and excise duty. This indulgent spending at a time of financial hardship reveals a clear disconnect between the government and the people it claims to serve.
This is not just poor timing; it is a betrayal of public trust. When Penang’s finances are under pressure and cash flow is tight, using public funds for luxury vehicles sends a cruel message: the comfort of officials takes precedence above the struggles of ordinary citizens.
Instead of practising fiscal discipline, the state government has shown a preference for luxury over responsibility. During tough times, leaders should tighten belts alongside the people. Instead, the DAP-led administration has chosen to reward itself—ignoring the principles of people-first governance.
Worse still, this comes as the government plans to raise a series of taxes and fees, including quit rent, hotel tax, liquor licence fees, enforcement charges, and even veterinary service fees to tackle cash flow issues. With Penangites already burdened by rising living costs, the timing of this decision couldn’t be more insensitive.
This is not merely a matter of legality, but one of public morality. How can a government justify spending millions on new cars while pleading for federal financial assistance? The contradiction is staggering—and it feels like salt in the wound for struggling families and businesses.
The Penang government’s current fiscal approach—borrowing, taxing, and spending—is unsustainable, undisciplined, and devoid of empathy. Penangites deserve better.
The state government must now come clean. It must explain the decision-making process behind this purchase, justify its budgetary priorities, and answer why such expenditure was considered urgent.
More importantly, it must commit to a full review of its spending to eliminate waste and stop prioritising perks for top public officials.
Penangites have every right to demand accountability. Every ringgit spent must serve the public good—not the personal comfort or image of those in power. – May 21, 2025
Datuk Tan Teik Cheng is the MCA vice president and the MCA Penang state liaison committee chairman.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main image: The Star
