RM4.95 million to renovate Penang excos’ offices

GEORGE TOWN – The Penang government has unveiled plans to renovate offices of state executive councillors’ (exco) offices at Menara Komtar.

The project to build and renovate offices at the tower was first mooted in 2019 and will solve what the state government says is insufficient space at levels 52 and 53.

The refurbishment will cost approximately RM4.95 million.

However, the actual cost could still be lower, if there is a competitive open tender. 

Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow said in a statement that the project will also help stimulate the economy by helping the successful contractor generate income amid the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“Currently, the average space for each exco office is around 1,400 square feet and each office accommodates one exco member with four to five other staff.

“The offices were first created in 1986 and no major renovations had been carried out since,” he added.

This renovation, however, does not involve the chief minister’s office and Chow will continue to work in his current office on Level 28.

Chow also reiterated that despite the renovations, the state government will not sideline financial assistance to the people and sectors affected by the pandemic.

“Last month, a financial package of RM20 million had been approved in addition to the RM155.5 million approved last year. 

Under no circumstances will the state government neglect the well-being of Penangites during this challenging time. Moreover, another RM50 million has been allocated for this year’s iSejahtera programmes.”

Last month, Chow received backlash after he was seen arriving at Penang’s City Hall in a new grey Mercedes-Benz S560e luxury hybrid saloon. 

Chow has since acknowledged that the state government could have decided on a better timing to replace his 2013 official car. – The Vibes, February 2, 2021