No Budget funding for Penang!

48 Pages·2015·15.82 MB·English

2016预算案槟遭遗忘
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1
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November 1 - 15, 2015
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No Budget funding
for Penang! asnetgitf aleCim glersao trwoly tc,h ht hoeefc kPb euandn-gd-
– Lim
Story by Chan Lilian billion from the people through
Pix by Alissala Thian GST (Goods and Services
Tax). Yet, how much is it giv-
CHIEF Minister Lim Guan ing back to the rakyat? It is
Eng has described the Budget akin to taking RM26 from the
2016 as a sheer, outright, bla- people and giving them RM1!”
tant marginalisation of Pen- he added.
ang. “This is malicious discrimi-
“Penang contributed RM6.3 nation which we feel is unfair.
billion to the federal govern- It certainly does not respect the
ment and yet, we get nothing constitution of the country as
in return. Only a mere 2%. We Penang is also part of Malay-
shall have to press on with our sia. Clearly, the budget aims to
state projects and find our own check and stifle growth of
resources,” Lim said in a press Penang. Although we are dis-
conference at Komtar on Oct appointed and upset at being
24. discriminated, we have to go
“The federal government is on,” Lim said.
going to collect at least RM21 He also questioned why
By: ME
Malacca was given allocations build the LRT, nothing has in GST from the 30 million
to expand its local airport been allocated,” Lim said. Malaysians.
when the state only gets five Lim described the Budget “Once again, we appeal for
to six flights a week. 2016 as “indah khabar dari the abolition of GST. As long
“While it is good for Ma- rupa” (Too good to be true). as the GST is imposed, the
lacca, why is Penang Interna- “It is unfair. Penang gets rakyat has to bear the burden
tional Airport not given any nothing! I am very disap- of RM21 billion.”
allocation although it is oper- pointed. No new projects were Furthermore, Lim pointed
ating at over capacity? Under announced for Penang,” Lim out that Budget 2016 had no
Budget 2016, there is nothing added. measures to arrest the declin-
for Penang’s public transport. He also pointed out that the ing value of the ringgit.
Although the Prime Minister federal government expects to “There is no measure to
had promised three times to collect at least RM21 billion salvage the ringgit,” he said.
Lim showing members of the media copies of Budget 2016.
2
Nov 1 - 15, 2015
Commission of Inquiry report released
Story by Chan Lilian Dr. Gue See Sew.
Tajuddin’s widow and his youngest
THE much-anticipated Report of the brother Laidin Zainal Abidin were at the
Commission of Inquiry into the Failure Chief Minister’s office to receive a copy
of Two Civil Structures in Penang, of the reports.
namely the structure at Umno building “Although the incident happened
and the collapse of a section of the Pen- two years ago, I am sure your loss is still
ang Second Bridge, was released on painful. With this report, I hope it an-
Nov 2 and members of the press were swers some of your questions on the
each given a printed copy and a CD. cause,” Lim said when he handed the
The report will also be available for the copy to Tajudin’s widow.
public at RM200 per set. The late Tajudin left behind four
The two tragedies that happened children.
within a week shocked Penangites.
On June 6, 2013, the ramp of the To purchase the reports, please
Penang Second Bridge which was under File picture at the scene of the collapsed lightning arrestor at the Umno building. contact :
construction then collapsed and killed Unit Kompleks Pentadbiran
motorist Tajuddin Zainal Abidin. Oct 28, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng released to the public after they had Kerajaan Negeri Pulau Pinang
The following week on June 13 the informed members of the media that the been seen and endorsed by the Penang Paras 3, Komtar
lightning arrestor of the Umno building report was completed on April 28 and Governor. Contact person : Mohd. Nizam
at Jalan Macalister crashed and killed had been translated to Bahasa Malaysia The commission was headed by Da- Che Mat
Lim Chin Aik and another motorist. and compiled. tuk Yeoh Yang Poh, and its members Telephone : [phone]
At a press conference in Komtar on However, the two reports were only were Datuk Roslan Hashim and Datuk
Thai ambassador calls on Chief Minister
Salleh refutes news report
PERMATANG
Pasir assembly-
member Datuk
Salleh Man (pix)
clarified in a
press conferenc
in Komtar on
Nov 2 that he is
with the Pakatan
Harapan state
government and
the Chief Minis-
ter.
”This is to re-
fute NST’s report
dated Oct 31
‘Penang PAS rep
won’t support
state government’. I was not interviewed by the reporter.
How can they print such a story? I want NST to withdraw
the statement immediately,” Salleh said.
“That is a wild allegation. I won the election as the
Lim (centre), Damrong (fourth from left) and Ekajit (third from left) posing for a group photo
assemblymember in Permatang Pasir as a result of the
with the recipients of the donation as Wong (second from left), Hock Seng (left) and Phee (right)
spirit and cooperation of the Pakatan Rakyat (which was
look on.
the coalition of PAS, DAP and PKR). Based on that
THAILAND ambassador to Malaysia Damrong needed for the affected families from Penang. spirit, I will continue to support the Penang state govern-
Kraikruan and his team, which also comprised In conjunction with the courtesy call, Dam- ment under Pakatan Harapan (coalition of DAP, PKR and
Thai Consul-General to Penang Ekajit Kraivi- rong handed over donations totalling RM20,000 Amanah). I will also support the Chief Minister and
chien, made a courtesy call on Chief Minister to the victims’ families, represented by Tan Lim defend him and the state as one of the 30 assemblymem-
Lim Guan Eng at his office in Komtar on Oct Kee, Neoh Ee Ling and Neoh Hock Guan. bers,” Salleh added.
28. Among those present were exco members “I will continue to serve the state and pray that Penang
The ambassador expressed his hope that the Phee Boon Poh and Lim Hock Seng and Air under Pakatan Harapan will be further developed and be
existing cordial relationship between Thailand Itam assemblymember Wong Hon Wai. successful,” he concluded.
and Malaysia, particularly Penang, can be fur- The ambassador said the contribution repre- Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and exco members were
ther improved. sented a small gesture from the Thai govern- with Salleh and they posed together for a group photo in
In return, Lim thanked the ambassador and ment to share the feeling of grief and sadness the said press conference. “The fact that Datuk Salleh
the Thai Government for looking into the recent with the affected families over the loss of their Man is here today is a proof that we are working to-
Bangkok blast incident and giving the support loved ones in the incident. gether,” Lim told members of the media.
3
Nov 1 - 15, 2015

Penang has high PRESS STATEMENT – CURRENT INDUSTRY M&A
27 Oct 2015

1. As the State’s investment promotion agency, investPenang wishes to address the
current spate of on-line news and speculations regarding corporate movements of a few
income jobs lined up
semicon/ E&E multinationals in Penang.

2. In today’s industries and business, mergers and acquisitions are commonly carried out
not only to consolidate operations but also for other reasons such as increase in market
share and technology synergies. This is happening globally in the semicon and E&E
Story and pix by Chan Lilian technology companies and Penang, as an electronic hub, with its many international
companies, is invariably impacted.

SOME mainstream media have alleged that 3. In 1H 2015 alone, globally, $72.6 billion worth of M&A were announced. This was more
factories are closing down and workers laid than four times the value of M&A reported in fiscal 2014. The 3 major M&A include:
 $37 billion acquisition of Broadcom by Avago
off.
 $16.7 billion acquisition of Altera by Intel
However, this was quickly dismissed by
 $11.8 billion acquisition of NXP Semiconductor by Freescale.
investPenang director Datuk Lee Kah Choon
(pix) in a press briefing on Oct 27 at his office 4. In Penang, 5 multinationals recently announced their M&As:
a. AMD joint venture with Nantong Fujitsu Microelectronic Co.
in PSDC Bayan Baru.
85% share in AMD’s manufacturing sites in Penang and Suzhou, China were sold
Lee first explained to the press how the to Nantong Fujitsu Microelectronics for $371 million cash; with AMD retaining
fast paced semi-conductor industry moved 15% stake. The manufacturing site in Penang will remain in operation. The JV is
and evolved. the “latest step in AMD’s strategic transformation to further sharpen focus and
operations on designing high-performance products.” The company announced
“We are lucky that we have Intel and Dell
that “there are no planned workforce reductions in Penang AMD facility”. The
that have been around for 40 years. It is not deal expected to be closed first half 2016, as long as regulatory and other
surprising that some of the businesses approvals are obtained.

change. For example, from laptops people
b. Sanmina Corp to take over Motorola Solutions’ manufacturing facility in Bayan
are now moving into mobile technology. Lepas.
Penang has the supply chain and industries. Motorola’s manufacturing in Technoplex facility will be taken over by Sanmina
Mergers and acquisition take place,” Lee Corp, a leading integrated manufacturing service provider; whilst it focuses on
R&D in Penang. They confirmed that the “sale does not change Motorola’s
said. inch of the way to get investments. Work-
commitment in Malaysia” and “allows Motorola Solutions to deliver best in class
“Penang is very resilient. We have the ers can easily be absorbed into other in- service to its partners and customers”. They also reported in a local press on Oct
human talent to serve the industries. Do you dustries and we assist these workers to get 14th, 2015 that the “transfer does mean there will be a reduction in staffs”.
Employees will be transferred to Sanmina at no lesser terms than what they
remember how once Motorola used to jobs,” he continued.
currently have. The transaction is expected to be finalized by early 2016.
manufacture the mobile phones which were Lee also refuted press allegations that
c. Western Digital acquiring SanDisk
huge? Now Motorola is still here and they several factories are closing down. He asked
WD announced on 21 Oct 2015, its plan to acquire SanDisk for $19B cash and
are into research and development. Penang the press: “Where did you get this informa- stock. The deal is scheduled to be closed by Q3 2016. There are currently 1042
has high income jobs lined up for Penan- tion? I got it from trusted sources in the employees in SanDisk Penang.
gites,” Lee added. mentioned factories and they had not con-
d. Amphenol to close one part of its business.
“As far as jobs are concerned, we are firmed they are doing as rumoured.”
Amphenol is consolidating its mobile consumer products division in Asia Pacific,
still very, very stable. Plenty of positions InvestPenang released its full press state- closing one of its plants in Penang. 150 employees will be affected. The company
are to be filled. However, we are not com- ment with all the facts and data which pro- will continue manufacturing of high speed connectors in 2 other plants in
Penang, employing 800 staffs.
placent and investPenang works closely vides the information on employment, merg-

with the industries. We will fight every ers and acquisitions and others. e. Dell acquired EMC at $67billion
Acquisition, announced on 12 Oct, 2015, was made to ‘evolve the company into
the most relevant areas where IT is moving’.

Unlicensed hotels warned
From the above, it can be seen that only 150 jobs in Penang are affected. More job
consolidation could be happening due to other M&As but there are no news of closure
OVER the last few weeks, several unli- Jalan Macalister. to- date. Corporate movements will impact Penang, as host to many MNCs, and also
other States in Malaysia.
censed hotels had their rooms demolished This brings to four the number of il-

and furniture removed. legal hotels raided by the council since 5. In Penang, investments in the manufacturing sector remain robust. Recently, Jinko Solar
“MBPP will continue to act against the start of the operation last month to as well as JA Solar, both multinational Chinese companies, started operations in Penang
offering a total of 1,900 jobs. HP is currently constructing their factory in Batu Kawan
those who operate a hotel without li- clamp down on unlicensed hotels.
and will employ 1,000 staff when it is in full operation. Overall, according to MIDA, a
cence. There are 23 new cases and During the raid, the two unlicensed
total of 17,896 new jobs will be created in Penang via approved investments in 2014 and
demolition is ongoing. The last will be hotels has their signboards removed, il- 13,199 new jobs via approved investments in 1H 2015.
the first to go, that is new hotels which legal structures demolished and items
6. Penang managed to attract RM48.2 billion worth of investments from 2008 to 2014,
just opened without obtaining the proper like mattresses and television sets seized.
which is 93% higher than the RM24.9 billion invested on a similar 6 year period from
licences will be the first to be demol- On Oct 22, an illegal hotel in the heart
2001 to 2007.
ished,” Penang Island City Council of George Town was issued a compound
7. In addition to manufacturing, the services sector, especially Global Business Services and
(MBPP) Building Control director Yew for RM250 and had some of its items
Shared Services Outsourcing continues to offer high value job opportunities. HP recently
Tung Seang warned. seized. started a finance centre at PDC Technoplex. Others include Osram’s GBS center
“However, some of the 23 hotels have “The operations involves the whole of employing 150 staff and Jurong Engineering Design Center with 200 staff.

ceased operations pending approval of the island, including the George
8. The Penang Career Assistance and Talent (CAT) Center continues to provide assistance
licences. MBPP building inspectors will Town Unesco World Heritage en- to job seekers and employers looking for right candidates. As at 26 Oct, 2015, a total of
be monitoring the situation. Ample time clave,” MBPP assistant officer for Build- 3,246 vacancies in Penang can be found in job portals linked to the CAT Centre.

has been given to premises owners and ing Control Mohd Nizam Saad told re-
9. The State government via investPenang is working closely with companies that have
those intending to operate hotels and porters after the raid.
made announcements to assist and smoothen transition. However, for companies that
MBPP had also held dialogues and brief- At the same press conference, MBPP have yet to make any official statements, due to confidentiality requirements at this
ings to assist them,” Yew added. licensing officer Mohamad Hasan stage or other reasons, whenever they can, we urge them to clarify matters to quell the
spread of rumours. Further updates and clarifications will be given by investPenang
In a joint operation on Oct 28, some Abdul Rahman said the illegal hotels
when necessary.
40 MBPP enforcement officers, who that have been issued compounds were
were separated into two groups, raided still subjected to raids if they did not 10. As an international city where many multinationals are located, Penang will be
subjected to vagaries of global business trends directly. We however remain positive in
two hotels in Jalan Datuk Keramat and adhere to guidelines set by the council.
facing these challenges and steadfast in assisting all our investors and employees.

(End)
4
Nov 1 - 15, 2015
Oktoberfest
MEET-THE-PEOPLE SESSION
marks 43 years
THE public is welcome to lodge complaints and give
suggestions to the Penang Island City Council during
its monthly meet-the-people session on Nov 20 from
3pm to 5pm at Level 4, Komtar
Story by Amanda Khong
Pix by Chan Lilian PENANG STORY
LEARN more about Penang and rural performing arts
OKTOBERFEST was back in the 20th century at a Penang Story Lecture con-
for its 43rd edition in Penang ducted by Lawrence Ross on Nov 7 from 6.30pm to
when the annual German 9.30pm Level 1, the Star Pitt St Penang. Registration
festival was held in the Ma- fee is RM10 for Penang Heritage Trust members and
laysian-German Society RM25 for non-members. Seats are limited and registra-
(MGS) on Oct 23 and 24. tion is open until Nov 6. Further details, contact info@
Oktoberfest has been con- pht.org.my or call 04-2642631.
tinuously held here in Penang
for 43 years which is a record MEMORIAL SERVICE
in Malaysia and perhaps MOUNT Miriam Cancer Hospital is holding an inter-
Southeast Asia too. faith memorial service on Nov 7 at 9.30am in the hos-
Chief Minister Lim Guan pital’s lecture hall on Level 2. The session is open to all
Eng and his wife Betty Chew races and religions. Details, contact Sr Pauline Sewell
The crowd enjoying the music.
Gek Cheng were present at (017-4490681).
the festival on Oct 24.
“This evening, we are here to celebrate this FREE COURSES
spirit of brotherhood and togetherness and I want BRAHMA KUMARIS is conducting free courses in
to congratulate the joint efforts between Germans positive thinking, stress-free living, inner leadership etc.
and Malaysians working together as a team to For details, contact 2288209/013-4301229 (P Tikus) and
make the annual celebration not only the longest 019-4152639 (Bayan Baru).
but the biggest Oktoberfest event in this country.”
said Lim during his speech at the festival. LAUNDRY SERVICE
Also after three years of hard work, the state NEED help with your laundry? Then come to Kedai
government has recently launched Malaysia’s first OKU Dobi Pulau Pinang, Opposite Pacific Bakery, Unit
German Dual Vocational Training (GDVT) Pro- 2B-104, Phase 2, Ground Floor No 8, Konkos Satu,
gramme on Sept 1. Three girls in their traditional dirndl and their Komtar (Tel: [phone]). Their speciality services
toffee apples.
The state government is contributing RM2 mil- include dry cleaning suits, sweaters and gowns, air-
lion to pay school fees for 500-600 students, whilst washing tudung and dresses and disinfecting your baby’s
the students have the benefit of an allowance of of business partnerships but culture as well. toys. The laundrette is managed by single mothers and
RM900 monthly by the participating companies. Exco member for Tourism Development and disabled.
Lim added that Penang is and will always be Culture Law Heng Kiang, MGS president Achim
glad to have its German friends not only in terms Lauermann, and the consuls-general from several FREE EMAIL COUNSELLING
countries were also some of the dignitaries HELP4u, an initiative of the Penang Education Council,
present on that festive night. provides confidential, anonymous and free email coun-
selling for young people between 13-25 years who need
Celebrating German unity help on issues relating to their studies, family, relation-
ship and others. For details, log on to their website,
GERMAN Unity Day, which commemo- www.help4u.my, www.help4u.org.my
rates the anniversary of German reunifica-
tion in 1990 and the 25th German Unity FREE WEBSITE EDUCATION
Day is celebrated on Oct 3. It was cele- GET your website questions answered when you attend
brated also in Penang early last month. Redbox Studio’s free Tech Tuesday sessions every
Held at the E&O Hotel, ambassadors Tuesday at Complex USM. Book your session at www.
and consuls-general from several coun- redboxstudio.com/tech-tuesday or call Krista (016 451
tries joined in the joyous occasion. 9193).
Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng together
with Penang State exco members, assem- ENGLISH CLASS
blymembers and Penang state government BRITISH Council is now organising a part-time English
officials celebrated the 25 years of Ger- course for adults who want greater flexibility in learning
man unity with the German ambassador English. For details, call 04-2630330 or email penang@
to Malaysia, Holger Wilfried Micheal, britishcouncil.org.my
Consul-General of Germany to Penang
Datuk Herbert Weiler and other dignitar- YOGA CLASSES
ies. HINDU Mahajana Sangam is organising yoga classes
The Chief Minister proposed a toast for every Wednesday from 7pm to 9pm at the Hindu Ma-
the health and wellbeing of the president hajana Sangam, Gandhiji Ashram, at 674, Jalan Kebun
of Germany and also the success and Bunga. Call Raju at 016-4351211 for details.
prosperity of its people.
5
Nov 1 - 15, 2015
Convoy for the needy
Story by Victor Seow Datuk Mohd Rashid Hasnon
was present to flag off the char-
THE Balik Pulau Charity Convoy ity convoy at Taman Poket,
2015 made up of 120 motorcycles Teluk Kumbar which then
brought much joy and benefits to headed for Masjid Pulau Be-
the needy and disadvantaged tong, Pulau Betong constitu-
folks residing in the area. ency coordinating service cen-
During its four-hour journey tre, Teluk Bahang constituency
on Oct 18, the convoy made coordinating service centre and
stops at several locations and its finally the Penang National
members mingled with and Park.
showed their concern for the Also present were deputy
local residents. chairman of the Penang State
According to Pulau Betong Islamic Religious Council Da-
constituency coordinating of- tuk Abdul Halim Hussain, Pen-
ficer Mohd Tuah Ismail, the ang Island City Council (MBPP)
purpose of the convoy was to councillor Muhammad Baktiar
enable aid to reach the needy Wan Chik and members of the
folks and also to convey the local village development and
The convoy being flagged off as the riders get ready to reach out to the needy folks. - Pix courtesy of
message directly to them that safety committee (JKKK).
PPK Pulau Betong
their welfare is a matter of con- A total of 200 people received
cern to the authorities. previous programmes,” he said pecially from the youths. “I would very much like to hampers and cash aid given out
“This charity convoy is not a when met at Taman Poket. “The charity convoy is praise the involvement of the by Mohd Tuah and Halil.
mere corporate social responsi- Telok Bahang constituency meaningful as we try to lighten youth in our programme this The Balik Pulau Charity Con-
bility (CSR) exercise to help coordinating officer Halil Sabri the burden of those who lack time as what they have done voy 2015 was jointly organised
those who lack the means to Hamid added that what im- the financial means. It is a sim- definitely will make a change by the Teluk Bahang constitu-
support themselves but we are pressed him most was the warm ple approach but definitely a in their future,” he added. ency coordinating service centre
taking a new approach from our reception they all received es- joyful one,” said Halil. Deputy Chief Minister I and MBPP.
Early start for Deepavali
Concern over Mount Erskine road crash rate
GURNEY Paragon had an THE whole stretch of Mount Erskine Road
early start to welcome the is an accident prone area and coupled with
Deepavali celebrations on the fact that its terrain is steep and hilly at
Oct 24 when its manage- certain intervals and the speed limit of 60
ment and students of Equa- km per hour is often overlooked by road
tor College came together users, the public is advised to take precau-
as a multi ethnic commu- tions and to report on Facebook of any
nity to celebrate this festive accident taking place in the area.
occasion. Commenting on this matter was Pulau
In their effort to bring the Tikus assemblymember Yap Soo Huey
joy of the most important who on Oct 20 paid a visit to accident
(From left) Khor, Yap and Equator College Yap (left) listening to Loh explaining how
festival in the Hindu calen- founder Datuk Chuah Kooi Yong lighting the victim Loh Gnai Chun at his home. the accident took place.
dar, around the students candles to symbolise happiness, knowledge, Loh, 30, who is confined to a wheelchair
came up with a creative, health and wealth. on a temporary basis and is recuperating cheek in which titanium plates were in-
one-of-its-kind décor made at home, met with an accident on Sept 28 serted into his face by doctors who at-
of recycled glass bottles. Also taking part were Hunza ex- when he was hit by a car while riding his tempted to reconstruct his injured face.
Each glass bottle was used to ecutive director Khor Tze Ming who motorcycle home at 7.30pm after his He also dislocated his right hip in the
portray different patterns such as represented the management of usual jogging session at the Botanical accident.
henna art, floral and tattoo mandala Gurney Paragon mall and Equator Gardens. Yap also advised concerned members of
that represented peace and unity. College executive finance and admin “I have since 2013 kept in contact with the public to report or to post on a new
These glass bottles will be on director Datin Pauline Chuah. the Public Works Department (JKR) and Facebook page which her office had set up.
display at a corner of St. Jo’s until In her speech, Yap drew parallels the Engineering Department of the Penang “Due to lack of data by the relevant
Nov 12 and this provides the stu- to the importance of hope for the na- Island City Council (MBPP) to come up authorities, I hope concerned residents of
dents with an excellent platform to tion with the concept of hope behind with ways and means to reduce the speed Mount Erskine area would post on this
showcase their artwork and enhance the actual meaning of Deepavali. of vehicles from the Puncak Erskine flats Facebook page reports of any accident
their creativity at the same time. “Deepavali is actually a celebra- area to the Mount Erskine market area since 2012 or ‘near miss’ taking place here
Pulau Tikus assemblymember tion of triumph for light over dark- which is under the jurisdiction of JKR,” which you’re aware of. This would great-
Yap Soo Huey, who attended the ness, hope over despair and good Yap told members of the press. ly assist these government agencies to plan
event, also took part in the “Light- over evil. Given the numerous chal- “Errant motorists tend to neglect the and to channel their resources to plan the
On Ceremony”, where oil lamps lenges and uncertainties the nation safety of pedestrians, bus passengers and traffic system in this area,” Yap added.
were lit to thank God for happiness, is now facing, it is important for us motorcyclists who reside on both sides of The Facebook page can be found at:
knowledge, health and wealth re- to have hope,” Yap said in her Mount Erskine Road,” she said. https://www.facebook.com/RekodKema-
ceived. speech. There were visible scars on Loh’s left langanJalanMtErskine.
6
Nov 1 - 15, 2015
People are losing trust in certain media
CHIEF Minister Lim Guan Eng has hit
out at certain media whose news report-
ing is slanted.
Of child rights and ethical journalism
“We are working in a very hostile
media environment. However, the people
are losing trust in the media. They are
not ignorant and know which media news Story by Amanda Khong In the following session, Dr.
is slanted and which is not. I make no Shakila Manan, associate professor
apologies for stating this,” Lim said in a WOMEN’s Centre for Change from USM, conducted a case study
press conference in Komtar on Oct 31. (WCC) and KDU College jointly on the news reporting surrounding
Lim was earlier asked about certain organised a workshop titled “Child the rape-murder of Noritta Samsu-
media which reported that factories are Rights and Ethical Journalism” on din in 2003.
closing down in Penang although statis- Oct 21. This case study explored how the
tics and press briefings had been pro- KDU College was the host for gradual build-up of negative report-
vided by investPenang which proved that the workshop which saw some 100 ing surrounding Noritta caused the
this not the case. journalism students from KDU perception of her to shift from being
Lim said some of these media are fac- Penang, Universiti Sains Malaysia the victim of a monstrous crime to
ing falling circulation and nobody, espe- (USM) and TAR College attending. her seemingly having contributed
cially in Penang, bothers to read them. The workshop began with a wel- to her own death due to her per-
“I don’t know whether to laugh or coming address from Evelyn Lim, ceived immorality.
otherwise. Newspapers can put report Academic Department Head of The third session by Joshua Teh,
front page news which is not true. Yet, KDU Mass Communication Depart- advocacy officer for WCC, revealed
when we reply, it is either not published ment. the results of a ground-breaking
or given a very tiny space. When we Following that, Dr. Prema De- four-month media survey conduct-
talked about positive aspects of Penang, varaj (pix), programme consultant ed by WCC in 2014 on reporting of
we will be completely ignored. Yet, when for WCC, conducted the first ses- sexual crimes involving children.
any party criticises Penang, it will be on sion titled “Sexual Crimes and He explored how placing a com-
front page in certain media,” he added. Vulnerable Victims”. bination of identification markers
To illustrate his point, Lim asked She started by introducing sexu- such as the victim’s age, address, Moderated by Joshua Teh, Prema
members of the press who were at the al crimes and the vulnerability of and parents’ occupation, among was joined by Dr. Mustafa Kamal
press conference: “Do you all recall how victims, especially children, who others, in a news report could lead from the Penang Institute and
certain media claimed that tourists are have been sexually abused. to the identification of the victim. Himanshu Bhatt, a senior journalist,
not coming to Penang? Yet, today, Pen- She then went on to explore some The final session was a panel on several key issues raised
ang has been chosen as the fourth char- common misconceptions of sexual discussion on “Ethical Journalism throughout the course of the work-
ismatic city in the world by Lonely crimes. and Moving Forward”. shop.
Planet.”
Urging youth to join NGOs
YOUTHS have been urged to play a more active
role in non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
and to use such available platforms to make
changes to the livelihood of people.
Such were the words of activist Fahmi Zainol at
a dialogue titled “After Bersih 4: To Where We’re
㔀㨀　　 瀀洀
ⴀ
㄀　㨀　　 瀀洀 Heading?” on Sept 17.
Fahmi, who once headed the University Malaya
Student Representative Council, was one of the
panellists at the dialogue session together with Bukit
Mertajam MP Steven Sim and Northern Region
Fahmi (centre) exchanging his opinion during
Bersih chairman Datuk Dr. Toh Kin Woon. the dialogue with (from left) Toh and Sim. -
An important point to ponder was when Fahmi Pix courtesy of Penang Youth Development
lamented on the inability of public universities as Corporation.
well as their students and academic staff to be the
agent of much needed change in our society and effect prominent changes in urban areas and to view
nation at large. each and every instruction from the leadership with
“University graduates and lecturers ought to be broad-mindedness.
opinion shapers for the youth who are the future “There’s still much work to be done. The current
leaders of our country. Unfortunately, how many level of success of our society reflects what level
percent of our lecturers are actually playing their of success was attained by the previous generation
roles in this regard? It is time for our lecturers and and what they left us. Hence, we should work to-
youth to awake from their deep slumber. It is no wards the betterment of our future generation,” he
longer a question of how fat their pay cheque is or added.
how big a house they will own in time to come,” The dialogue session at Karpal Singh Penang
Fahmi said. Learning Centre was organised by the Penang Youth
Interestingly, he also opined that NGOs should Development Corporation (PYDC).
7
Nov 1 - 15, 2015
Haze kills the run
Story and pix by Amanda Khong
DISAPPOINTMENT was seen on
everyone’s face as the Tanjung 10km
Run was cancelled on the day of the
event itself due to the haze which was
very bad that morning.
Exco member for Youth and
(from left) Connie, Zarina, Ng and Tan (right) all smiles after
Sports, Women, Family and Com- receiving the masks.
munity Development Chong Eng,
who was present at Seri Mutiara, the N95 masks donated to MBPP
Governer’s official residence, on Oct
24 said “I would like to thank the THE Penang Island City Coun- oil resistance classification as
organising committee for making cil (MBPP) received 1,000 N95 “Not resistant to oil”, and the
this wonderful event possible even valveless safety masks from 95 suggests that the mask filters
though the run was cancelled due to Safetyware Group on Oct 23 out at least 95% of airborne
Chong Eng (centre) and Syed Mohd Aidid (second from
weather circumstances. I hope the right) joining the contestants for a fun jog. for use by council personnel particles.
participants understand that this deci- while carrying out their duties “Apart from these 1,000
sion was made after much consideration to was also present and thanked all the participants during the haze that shrouded masks, MBPP has also ordered
prevent any mishaps from happening.” for their continuous support for the event. Penang recently. around 4,000 N95 valve respi-
The Tanjung 10km Run 2015 was organised Funds collected will be given to the Associa- MBPP councillors Joseph rator masks for all our staff.
in conjunction with the official birthday of Gov- tion of Resource and Education for Autistic Ng, Tan Kim Hooi, Connie Tan Priority will be given to the
ernor Yun Abdul Rahman Abbas. Children (Lions REACh) which focuses on and Nur Zarina Zakaria were Urban Services (JPP), enforce-
It has become a tradition for Lions Club of special education for children with autism. present at Komtar to receive the ment officers, and building in-
Tanjung, Penang to make it an annual event Although the run was cancelled, the lucky masks on behalf of MBPP. spectors as they have to work
which promotes a healthy lifestyle and raises draw still went on and 20 participants walked The term N95 refers to the while dealing with the worsen-
funds for environment projects. away with various prizes that ranged from elec- filter class of the mask. ing haze on a daily basis,” Ng
Penang Amateur Athletic Association (PAAA) trical appliances, tablets and smartphones to the The “N” refers to the filter’s said.
president Datuk Syed Mohd Aidid Syed Murtaza grand prize of a motorcycle.
Come and join in the excitement of the Penang International
Clear message on the haze
Science Fair (PISF) on 14-15 Nov from 10am to 7pm at SPICE.
Have fun learning in hands-on workshops. See high-tech
GROWING concerns over the worsening haze exhibits of companies in Penang. See creative arts and crafts,
situation in Penang prompted a group of elected and innovative creations of makers in MakerFest. Exciting robot-
representatives to submit a memorandum to the ics, design and coding competitions. Fun for all ages!
Indonesian Consulate along Jalan Burma on Oct For more info, check out http://www.pscpen.com/pisf-2015/
23.
Led by state exco member for Agriculture &
Agro-Based Industry, Rural Development and
Health Dr. Afif Bahardin, other members of his
entourage included exco members Phee Boon Poh
(Welfare, Caring Society and Environment) and
Danny Law Heng Kiang (Tourism Development
and Culture) and assemblymembers Cheah Kah
Dr Afif fielding questions from the media on
Peng (Kebun Bunga) and Yap Soo Huey (Pulau the worsening haze conditions. Looking on
Tikus). (from left) are Sofiana and Phee.
Copies of the memorandum which bore the
signatures of the three exco members and ad- ternational law, the sovereign right to exploit
dressed to Indonesian President Joko Widodo were their own resources pursuant to their own envi-
distributed to the members of the press. ronmental policies, and the responsibility to
“The current haze crisis has been an ongoing ensure that activities within their jurisdiction or
affair since early September 2015 and it affects control do not cause damage to the environment
neighbouring Singapore as well as several prov- of other States or of areas beyond the limits of
inces in Indonesia. Penang is also facing this crisis national jurisdiction”.
for several weeks and we have witnessed several Receiving the memorandum on behalf of the
episodes in which readings exceeding 200 have Indonesian government was Sofiana Mufidah who
been recorded on the Air Pollution Index (API). It is in charge of consular affairs.
is most unfortunate that this is not the first time In response to the memorandum, the Indonesian
such a hazy catastrophe is affecting us,” Dr. Afif consulate also issued a separate statement which
read from a copy of the memorandum. mentioned the remedial steps that have been taken
The state government, in the memorandum, also by its government in addressing this environmen-
urged the Indonesian government to adhere to tal catastrophe and to reiterate the fact that Widodo
Principle 21 of the Stockholm Declaration which viewed the matter with grave concern and was also
says: most appreciative of the assistance his government
“States have, in accordance with the Charter received from neighbouring countries in terms of
of the United Nations and the principles of in- equipment and personnel to combat the forest fires.
8
Nov 1 - 15, 2015
A government that listens
Story by Chan Lilian of doing business,” he added.
Pix by Amanda Khong Meanwhile, in his speech, Lim agreed
that the delay in the APDL by the Urban
CHIEF Minister Lim Guan Eng has as- Wellbeing, Housing and Local Govern-
sured that the Penang state government is ment Ministry and the GST had caused a
a government that listens. great burden.
Lim said this at the Real Estate and “I know that it is very challenging for
Housing Developers Association (Rehda) the industry. But, we should not feel
Penang 41st anniversary dinner on Oct 28. gloomy. Penangites are resilient. Penan-
Rehda has a membership of 102 and gites are tough. I am sure we will over-
plays its role in ensuring sustainable and come these crises. Never give up. Things
orderly growth of the housing and prop- may seem hard and dark. But it is always
erty industry. the darkest before dawn. Penang never
Rehda Penang chairman Datuk Jerry surrenders. We are here to stay!” Lim said.
Chan talked about integrity and appealed His speech was met with cheers and
to the government that the industry needs applause.
help. During the dinner, Rehda also contrib-
Chan was referring to the delay in 47 uted RM15,000 to an old folks home and
advertising permit and development li- children shelter home as part of its corpo-
cences (APDL) where an estimated 5,000 rate social responsibility programme.
units of homes are affected. Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk
“Without the APDL, we cannot sell or Mohd. Rashid Hasnon, state exco mem-
promote the projects as well as finalise the bers Chow Kon Yeow, Datuk Abdul Malik
sales and purchase agreements,” he said. Kassim, Law Heng Kiang, assemblymem- Chan (left) and organising chairman David Fong (right) welcoming Rashid
(second from left) and Chow.
“The GST has also increased the cost bers and councillors were also present.
Jagdeep criticises housing
allocations in Budget 2016
JAGDEEP Singh Deo, exco ang’s applications are hard to
member for Housing and be approved,” he added.
Town & Country Planning “If I may suggest to the
recently hit out at Budget Prime Minister cum Finance
2016. Minister, he should use the
“The budget is very disap- RM2.6 billion reportedly
pointing. Is the Prime Min- donated to him as a revolving
ister who is also the Finance trust fund to help first time
Minister ill-advised? The home buyers to purchase a
entire housing industry home. In Western Australia,
knows that the housing loan they have the Keystart pro-
rejection for first time home gramme to help people to
buyers is very high. There- buy a home through shared
fore, there is no logic at all ownership,” Jagdeep said.
for the setting up of funds to Having expressed his dis-
help first time home buyers appointments at the recent
to pay the deposit. If the first budget, Jagdeep revealed
time home buyer cannot even that the Penang state govern-
afford the deposit, how are ment is looking at innovative
they going to service the method to ensure that the
loan?” Jagdeep asked. people, especially the first
“The grandiose announce- time home buyers, get a
ment of the budget means home.
nothing. It is the same old He said further details will
package of recycled prod- be released soon but it is a
ucts. For example, RM155 positive step towards home
million was announced for ownership.
the TP1M (Tabung Peruma- ”Looks like we have to
han 1Malaysia) which is look into this matter our-
meant for repairs and main- selves. That way, we will be
A Boutique Heritage Hotel tenance of high-rise public able to improve the take up
housing and low-cost flats. rate of affordable homes,”
However, every year Pen- Jagdeep said.
PIJF 2015-Eng Buletin Mutiara-outline.indd 1 9/27/15 10:14 AM
9
Nov 1 - 15, 2015
Property summit returns
Story by Chan Lilian is important to get stakeholders ing from affordable homes to
Pix by Alissala Thian together to better enhance the high-end condos and homes.
delivery of housing to the peo- “The future of Penang is in
PENANG Property Summit ple,” he said at the press confer- Seberang. Therefore, one of the
2016 (PIP) to be held at the ence to announce the summit. lecture series will feature
SPICE Arena on Jan 8-10 The PIP will take place for speakers like exco member for
promises to be a game changer. the second time and is a col- Local Government, Traffic
Exco member for Housing laboration between the Penang Management and Flood Miti-
and Town & Country Planning State Housing Committee and gatin Chow Kon Yeow, Penang
Jagdeep Singh Deo said that PenEvents. City mayor Datuk Patahiyah
due to last year immense suc- The three-day programme Ismail and Seberang Perai Mu-
Jagdeep (right) with the organising team of PIP at the press
cess, it is crucial to hold such will see 200 prominent industry nicipal Council chief Datuk conference.
events at least twice a year. players gathering for some Maimunah Shariff. They will
“The property sector is an brainstorming. be talking about ‘Challenges Status and the future of the portunities for property devel-
evolving one and every minute Thirty exhibitors will also and Opportunities for Penang Mainland’. There will also be opment on the mainland,”
there are changes. Therefore, it showcase their properties rang- - The island achieving City a panel discussion on the op- Jagdeep said.
Developers agree with
Squatters issue settled amicably
relaxed housing rules
IT was an exciting day for ment’s policy to ensure
some Sungai Nibong resi- that no squatters were left LAST month, a new catego- would call these RM150,000
dents when they viewed the out and worked hard for a ry of affordable housing was units as ‘intermediate me-
show unit of their new homes win-win situation be- introduced. dium cost’ or IMC. Howev-
at an event on Oct 25. tween landowner and At the same time, in order er, I disagree with the 750 sq
“My dear uncles and aunt- squatters. to stimulate the development ft requirement as not every-
ies from Kampung Sungai In his speech, Rashid of such affordable housing, one needs three rooms. It
Nibong Kecil and Sungai spoke to the people who it has also been decided that will be extremely difficult
Nibong Tengah, today we were formerly from the 30% of the units in any par- for developers to build 750
bring you here with govern- two kampungs. ticular 100% affordable sq ft, RM150,000 units,”
ment authorities to see the “As your assembly- housing project may be sold Chan said.
beautiful homes you will be member, I made sure that on the open market, on con- Meanwhile, Chan agreed
staying in so that you will not none of you were left out dition that the said units are that it is a good move regard-
be led astray by ridiculous when the land was ac- to be sold at 10% above the ing the opening of 30% of
rumours,” Gee Su Lyn, direc- quired by the new land- controlled price in all dis- the affordable units to the
tor of Hunza Realty Sdn Bhd owner. Today, I am very tricts except the Northeast public.
told hundreds of squatters at happy to meet all of you district, where it is to be sold “This is a good move as
the function in Bayan Lepas. here and to have a site 20% above the controlled this is a win-win arrange-
Hunza Properties Berhad visit at this topping up price. ment for both the buying
had acquired a piece of land ceremony. The flats you “We have taken into con- public and developers since
measuring 43 acres with 823 will move in have been sideration those who previ- there are not enough quali-
structures six years ago. The 680 sq ft flat has three built up to Level 28. As ously earned RM6,000 who fied buyers through the
Out of that number, 750 ac- bedrooms and is worth over you can see, the unit is like a were eligible for such afford- state’s registration list. The
cepted their resettlement com- RM130,000 in the market. medium-cost flat.” able housing, and for this five-year post completion
pensation package. Hunza founder Datuk Seri The people who are going to category, we have now intro- lock-up period will create an
Despite facing many chal- Khor Teng Tong explained why move in to the new flat next year duced a new category of af- increased supply of rental
lenges, Hunza successfully re- his company had provided the are certainly very excited as the fordable housing, namely units,” he added.
settled the squatters with the RM42,000 unit which actually unit is beautiful and spacious. units priced at RM150,000. Chan also agreed with the
help of the state government, cost RM100,000 to build. This is a far cry from their These units are also sized at 20% “surcharge/levy” for
especially Pantai Jerjak assem- “It is a social compensation homes in the Kampung Sungai a minimum of 750 sq ft, but affordable homes in the
blymember Datuk Mohd. Rashid package. I believe we must have Nibong Kecil as some units did without finishing (unlike the Northeast district, where it is
Hasnon who is also Deputy broken the Malaysian record for not have proper drainage and RM200,000 units),” exco to be sold 20% above the
Chief Minister I, Bayan Baru providing compensations to rubbish disposal. member Jagdeep Singh Deo controlled price and 10% for
MP Sim Tze Tzin who is also the squatters that reached close to In her closing speech, Gee said in a press statement other districts.
former Pantai Jerjak assembly- RM100 million for the land that reminded those who had not dated Oct 12. “This is correct as it pro-
member and government agen- we acquired,” he said. taken up the resettlement pack- Buletin Mutiara sought tects the qualified buyers and
cies. Khor also thanked Rashid for age to do so before the opportu- the comments from Real their entry costs,” he said.
Although a small section of his help. nity closes upon them. “The Estate and Housing Devel- Jagdeep foresees a surge
the squatters did not accept the “Datuk Rashid had helped to people should be thankful of the opers Association, Penang in demand and urged those
resettlement package, the major- identify those who are eligible state government’s constant eye (Rehda) Penang chairman interested to purchase af-
ity had either taken up homes in and he and his people had gone on the people’s dwelling woes Datuk Jerry Chan. fordable homes to “act fast
Bertam, accepted cash compen- to the ground to investigate and that they have always had land- “It is good to create the and not delay, as with these
sation of RM42,000 or were provide the families with various owners and developers to come new category of RM150,000 new measures in place, I am
looking forward to move into to options,” he added. up with resettlement dwellings affordable homes to cater for certain that the said units
the RM42,000 flat at Bayu Ny- Meanwhile, Rashid asserted for the affected people/squat- those with nett household will be taken up very quick-
aman. that it is the Penang state govern- ters,” Gee said. income cap of RM6,000. I ly”.
10
Nov 1 - 15, 2015
Aid for handicapped single mum
Story by Amanda
Khong
Pix by Alisalla Thian
Desa Intan Residents’
IT was a pleasant surprise
and much welcomed aid Association formed
for a handicapped single
mother when Seri Delima
assemblymember R.S.N IN a move to address residents’ issues, the Taman
Rayer and Bukit Gelugor Desa Intan Residents’ Association (PPTDI) was
MP Ramkarpal Singh do- formed recently
nated some RM350 worth Paya Terubong assemblymember Yeoh Soon Hin
of daily necessities and recently was at Taman Desa Intan on Oct 17 to of-
milk powder to her on Oct ficiate the formation of PPTDI.
17. “PPTDI will take on the role of being the me-
Rayer and Ramkarpal diator and messenger of the local residents of Ta-
visited the family in Ta- man Seri Intan and will notify the authorities or the
man Tun Sardon to deliver state government about any problems they might
the items. be facing.” said Yeoh.
Single mother Norhafi- Yeoh added that PPTDI was the residents’ idea
zah Abd. Rahman, 34, has (From left) Rayer and Ramkarpal having a light moment with the family. and self-initiative because they wanted to see the
two daughters aged two preservation of the environment.
years and six months each. is all she has to support her family. This is also an effort to promote the close bond
She lives with her mother Zaharah Puteh who is “We will help Norhafizah by providing her with of neighbours, encourage residents to involve
80. daily necessities, milk powder, pampers and food themselves in the continuous development process
Norhafizah has a handicapped right arm which supply worth RM300 every month from now on- of the area and give ideas on how to improve the
restricts her from doing much in daily life. wards.” said Rayer during a short interview session. current environment.
She said she is receiving monthly financial aid This will be a joint donation by Rayer and Ram-
of RM350 from the Welfare Department and that karpal to help support this family’s living expenses.
Remembering those killed
during Japanese Occupation
THE Penang (Kong
Min School) Anti-War
Memorial Committee,
with the state govern-
ment and non-govern-
mental organisations
(NGOs), has lined up a
series of events from
Nov 10 to commemo-
rate Penang Chinese
Transportation Volun-
teers and the Penang
Chinese killed during
Wong (left) sharing a light moment with members of
the Japanese Occupa-
the Anti-War Memorial Committee at the Japanese
tion. Occupation replica at the memorial site.
“A ‘Peaceful Cul-
tural Nite’ will be held ceremony at the memorial site,
on Nov 10 at the memorial site situated Wong added that he will allocate
at the junction of Jalan Air Itam and RM5,000 for the cultural night event on
Jalan Bukit Bendera,” Air Itam assem- Nov 10.
blymember Wong Hon Wai told a press Also present were the War Memorial
conference on Nov 2. Committee board director Datuk Chung
Also on Nov 11, 25 people from Pen- Keng Kung and Northern Region officer
ang and other states will join a convoy of Dream Rangers, Alex Tan.
of 12 cars for a journey from the memo- Meanwhile, Tan said a 4 x 4 convoy
rial site to Yangon in Myanmar. will cover most of the Burma Road, as
The group will be joined by volun- they drive from China to Myanmar, en
teers from Singapore on the 9,000km route to Yangon.
journey which will take some 31 days. “This is to expose the team to the
Meanwhile, at 11am on Nov 11, Chief experiences and difficulties encountered
Minister Lim Guan Eng will launch a by the past Chinese drivers,” he added.