A SENIOR Penang executive councillor has told Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammed Sanusi Md Nor to focus on developing his own state instead of harassing his neighbour.
Wong Hon Wai, who oversees tourism and creative economy, said that he is puzzled by Sanusi's insistence of wanting to seek higher compensation from Penang.
The PAS leader should just focus on growing the economy, fostering better trade ties and creating jobs for fellow Kedahans, said Wong.
Currently, Penang has an annual honorarium of RM10 million to Kedah, which was revised since 2018 after the state had allocated just RM10,000 in previous decades.
Sanusi's contention is that Penang used to be part of Kedah until the British colonists "leased" it from the Kedah Malay Sultanate with the 1786 declaration by Francis Light, who began the rapid transformation of the state into a free port.
Wong underscored that Penang's sovereignty is protected under the Federal Constitution, which was enforced since 1957.
Under Article 1 (2) of the Federal Constitution, Penang is listed as one of the 13 states with equal rights as others, said Wong.
He added that Penang's position is protected as a member of the Federation and Sanusi is challenging something sovereign.
"Our Federation Constitution supersedes all previous documents concerning the Kedah - Penang ties. Sanusi is pursuing a regrettable recourse; he is just trying to revive a 200 -year old account," said Wong.
He urged Sanusi to focus more on growing the economy of Kedah by enhancing investments and promoting trade.
Wong also said that Penang needs to focus on human capital besides the mega infrastructure projects.
He said that it is important to pursue the Mutiara light rail transit (LRT) line, major highways and the elevation of the Juru - Sungai Dua toll expressway.
But on the same token, it is equally important to pursue upgrading of human capital, creating quality jobs and improving the quality of life. - November 12, 2025.
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