Penang Gerakan chairman Datuk Dr Teng Hock Nan is saddened that good, dedicated and experienced civil servants are leaving the civil service, especially local council, in Penang, one by one.

He said the state government’s failure to retain them, “does not auger well for the state of Penang” as it would be a loss to the state and the people.

“I have worked with them and know they are committed and dedicated public servants with good service record. They have contributed lots of ideas to help Penang progresses and served the people of Penang well over the years,” said Dr Teng in a statement.

Dr Teng, a former state executive councillor in charge of local government, was commenting on the early retirement of Tan Cheng Chui as Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) president.

Citing personal health as the reason, Tan, 54, submitted his letter on Oct 23.

Earlier, in June, MPPP director of public health, services and licensing department, Dr Goh Kok Yeong, also opted for early retirement.

Meanwhile, Penang Gerakan Youth vice-chairman Tan Kah Leong said losing good top officials in the MPPP was a “slap on the face” on Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

“Is it because of political pressure and interference that they are leaving the civil service? Senior public servants like Tan and Dr Goh are dedicated, committed and respected professional civil servants,” said Tan.

Tan said he was made to understand that five more government officers were expected to quit soon and urged the state government to set up a committee to study this “crisis of confidence” and make public the findings to show transparency and accountability as public interests are at stake here.