Putrajaya may consider funding PTMP

The Federal government has not ruled out the possibility of funding the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) provided an

official application is made by the state government. — NSTP/MIKAIL ONG

BUTTERWORTH: The Federal government has not ruled out the possibility of funding the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) provided an official application is made by the state government.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said there were numerous aspects which needed to be discussed, including the financial architecture of the mega project, before a decison on the matter could be made.

“We will let the discussion (on the project) take place first before an application is made to the Federal government. There are a lot of procedures involved.

“Let there be an outcome, only then can we announce it, but we will look at it and take into account (the funding application),” he said in a press conference during a working visit to Sekolah Kebangsaan Sungai Nyior here today.

Recently, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow told the New Straits Times that the PTMP was a big project and as such should be placed under the Federal government.

Chow’s latest remarks were different to his previous statement where he said that Penang might request a soft loan for the project.

The Penang Chief minister had also said the state government would apply for federal funding and even invite the federal government to take up the project, especially the LRT (light rail transit) once the green light was secured for the projects.

The PTMP, announced in 2015, comprises a LRT system, an undersea tunnel and three paired highways.

The project would be funded through the reclamation of three manmade islands measuring – 809ha, 526ha and 324ha – for industrial, housing and commercial purposes.

Lim said announcing such a mega project should also not be done in a hasty manner.

“It is not right to talk directly to the media, let’s go through the proper procedure,” he said.

Earlier Lim, in visiting Sekolah Kebangsaan Sungai Nyior, inspected the condition of the buildings of the school which are in need of repairs.

He assured that funds would be found for the repairs and it would be value for money since it involved public funds.

“We will check on it, we do not want any parties to take advantage and gain extra profit,” said Lim.