THE recent claim made by Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor regarding Penang’s ownership is clearly a political ploy aimed at garnering support to cause discord among the people.
It is critical to recognise Penang’s historical setting. Penang has been an independent entity from Kedah since 1786 when the Sultan of Kedah ceded it to the British East India Company.
Since then, Penang has evolved from its own distinct identity, government, and administrative organisation. Furthermore, the Kedah and Penang (Alteration of Boundary) Act 1985 (Act 325) and many other documents clearly acknowledge Penang as a state inside Malaysia – not under Kedah.
Any attempt to lay claim to Penang ignores both history and the existing legal system. When presented with the significant economic differences between Kedah and Penang, it is disheartening to see the Kedah Menteri Besar resorting to such tactics.
Penang has evolved as a thriving economic powerhouse, drawing investments, promoting innovation, and driving significant economic growth.
Penang’s gross domestic product (GDP) far outstrips that of Kedah, demonstrating the dramatic gap in economic prospects and development. Under such circumstances, claiming Penang is similar to committing a robbery at knifepoint.
Instead of focusing on constructive ways to help the people of Kedah, this divisive strategy simply helps to distract from the state’s real difficulties and weakens the spirit of togetherness and collaboration among surrounding states.
I urge the Sanusi and other political leaders to prioritise constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts in addressing the real challenges that our respective states face and to work toward fostering inclusive development such as creating an economic zone that could benefit both states, improving citizens’ well-being and promoting regional cooperation for the collective benefit of all Malaysians.
A significant number of people from Kedah are also presently employed in Penang due to the employment opportunities and economic prospects it offers.
Therefore, Sanusi should consider the potential consequences before creating divisions that could potentially jeopardise this beneficial synergy.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time the Kedah Menteri Besar has sowed discord between Kedah and Penang. We have not forgotten how he threatened to stop the river water from flowing into Penang.
The Penang state government is committed to good governance, sustainable development, and inclusive policies that benefit all Penang citizens.
To enhance mutual growth and prosperity, Kedah should sit and engage in constructive discussions and cooperation with us.
Our nation’s strength comes from unity, teamwork, and respect for the historical and legal boundaries that distinguish our states.
Let us work together to build a better future rather than resorting to divisive techniques that only impede our progress. – June 2, 2023
Kebun Bunga state assemblyman Jason Ong Khan Lee is also PKR Penang legal and public complaints bureau chief and PKR Bukit Bendera division chief.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main pic credit: Astro Awani
