OPPOSITION assemblymen can seek assistance through various state agencies and Constituency Coordinating Officers (Pegawai Penyelaras KADUN – PPK), Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow (PH-Padang Kota) said.
Responding to Zulkefli Bakar (PN-Penanti), who called for equitable development funds for opposition-held constituencies during the State Legislative Assembly at the State Assembly Building today, Chow emphasised the state’s adherence to the “no wrong door policy.”
“Opposition leaders can submit requests and applications to state departments and agencies, which are always ready to assist,” Chow said.
He added that development projects are carried out based on public needs, regardless of political representation.
Reflecting on his time in the Opposition during the 1990s, Chow noted that they received no financial aid from the Federal Government. “At least now, we’re better than Parliament,” he remarked.
Chow explained that for this year, the state government has allocated RM500,000 each to government assemblymen, RM60,000 to opposition assemblymen and RM100,000 to PPK to address local needs. He said the allocations for 2025 would be maintained.
“These funds are meant for the people. State agencies and district offices ensure projects are implemented based on community needs, regardless of who they voted for,” he said.
In response to Zulkefli’s supplementary query about reviewing assemblymen’s allowances, Chow said the state government would consider it if Parliament decided to make changes.
“The last adjustment of assemblymen’s allowances was made 10 years ago and it should be adjusted every 10 to 15 years. However, we’ve to be patient. If Parliament conducts a study on the need for this readjustment, the state government will do likewise,” Chow explained.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud