GEORGE TOWN – The state government is confident of repaying its federal debt of RM49.63 million despite the economic slowdown caused by the Covid–19 pandemic.
Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Ahmad Zaiyuddin Abdul Rahman (Pinang Tunggal-Pakatan Harapan) said the accumulated loans will be repaid to the Treasury by the state in due course.
“We are hopeful that despite the pandemic, we can still cope with the return of investments and the move to stimulate the economy through various incentives.”
He said the investment climate in Penang remains favourable thanks to investor engagements.
Meanwhile, Dr Afif Bahardin (Seberang Jaya-Perikatan Nasional) clashed with former PH allies when he accused Muhammed Faiz Fadzil (Permatang Pasir-PH) of being childish.
The accusation came after Faiz said the federal government had victimised the state by scrapping the Penang Hill cable car project when PN took federal power.
State Speaker Datuk Law Choo Kiang urged Afif to withdraw his comments or risk being censured in the sitting.
Afif later apologised for his comment. – The Vibes, October 15, 2020