The federal government has never marginalise the Penang people but has constantly strives to increase infrastructure facilities to provide them a comfortable life, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri
Dr Koh Tsu Koon said today.

He said despite the state was rule by the opposition, the federal government still continue with its mega projects to help improve the life of Penangites.

“Projects such as Penang Second Bridge, expansion of Penang International Airport and expansion of Mengkuang Dam is still on-going, how can you say federal government marginalise the state,” he told reporters here.

He said it is untrue that the federal government has neglected Penang, as there are so many federal’s projects on-going here.

“Under the 12 Economic Transformation Programme (ETP), it was federal government initiative to contribute to the country electronic industry including those from Penang, Kulim, Sungai Petani and northern Perak,” he said.

He said due to the hardwork done by the federal government, Penang has recorded the highest increase in the country for the total capital investment for last year compare to 2009.

“I am happy to hear the good news that Penang tops total capital investment list in 2010. The result reflects the good network that was lay down the supply chain in the past 20 years since the era of Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu,” he said.

However, he said the most important is the foundation that has been done as it created a momentum that continue to push Penang forward.

“We have enjoy a good year in 2010 where the whole Malaysia recorded improvement of investment and I hope that the momentum will continue in 2011 and years to come,” he said.

He also urged to Penang state government to cooperate with the federal government for the sake and the interest of Penang people.

Earlier, Koh who is also the party Gerakan national president, joined thousand over devotees celebrate Thaipusam today in honour of Lord Murugan, revered by Tamils.

He alongside Penang Gerakan chairman Datuk Dr Teng Hock Nan and other state leaders visited all the thaneer panthal (refreshment stalls) and the Hindu temples at Waterfall road here.

Thaipusam is one of the festivals celebrated by Malaysian Hindus during the full moon in the month of “Thai” in the Tamil Calendar, which usually falls between January and early February.

Legend has it that Thaipusam began when the goddess Parvathi, Murugan’s mother, gave him a bow and arrow to destroy an evil force known as Soorapadman.

Murugan’s success in restoring prosperity and the well-being of the people, had become an occasion for Hindus to celebrate and observe Thaipusam.

by Editorial Desk
gerakan4u.com