FORMER Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng is keeping his fingers crossed that the Penang Port Commission (PPC) will readily implement any decision made by the federal government with regards to the iconic ferries.
According to the DAP chairman, the issue of the ferry service – which was abolished in 2020 – was raised on two occasions with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim since last month, reported Bernama.
“We had constructive conversations on the issue. I voiced my hope that the PPC would be ready to implement any decision taken by the unity government,” the Bagan MP was quoted as saying.
“I hope they (PPC) understand that the government has changed, and that the approach and priority regarding the old ferry issue have also changed,” he added WHILE reminding those in charge at the commission that DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook was now the transport minister.
However, Lim remained mum on whether the iconic ferry service will be making a return under the unity government.
The ferry service linking Penang island with Butterworth in the mainland had been in operation for just over 126 years but was done away with in 2020. Aside from being used to transport people, the ferries were also used to transport private vehicles.
However, currently, the new ferries only allow bicycles and motorcycles on board, besides people. – Jan 2, 2023
Main pic credit: The Sun Daily
