THE move by Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammed Sanusi Md Nor to raise the issue of honorarium with neighbouring Penang can be seen as a distraction from the state's own issues.
Kedah DAP secretary Teh Swee Leong said that Kedah was being besieged with issues, especially over the non-realisation of many projects mooted by Sanusi.
"So when under fire, it is best to pick on an opponent, who at times cannot rebut effectively," said Teh.
The 36-year-old said that the state is also rattled by the PAS-led administration to raise the quit rent rate, which can be seen as exorbitant in some localities.
"We hope Sanusi can focus on developing Kedah without having to infringe on other parts of the country."
Teh also lends his support to the proposal to create a Ulu Muda Basin Authority (UMBA) to offer a sustainable flow of water supply for the northern region.
Currently, the Ulu Muda water catchment area along the Baling - Sik districts, meets almost 80% of needs in Perlis and Penang while another 70% for Kedah.
With the great Sungai Muda originating from the area, Teh said that the proposal by Perurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB) chairman Datuk Seri Jaseni Maidinsa makes economic sense as it will help Kedah.
"We will hope to derive more revenue from water supply to the northern region and we can use the proceeds to develop the state," said Teh, the Kota Darul Aman assemblyman.
He said that it is time for Kedah to think of itself as a state within the context of the northern region.
Growth can be fuelled regionally with all northern states benefitting, said Teh.
For example, Penang's growth has created job opportunities for residents in Perlis and Kedah to tap, he said. - December 10, 2025.
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