A bold statement of loyalty: Penang PAS stands firm with the state.
In a recent development, Penang's deputy chief minister, Jagdeep Singh Deo, has made it clear that Penang PAS will not be swayed by Kedah's demands for a higher "lease payment." Despite the hesitancy of some, Jagdeep emphasizes the unity and strength of the state.
"They are with us, I have no doubt. What matters is our unwavering stance here in Penang," he declared at the state-level Deepavali open house.
But here's where it gets controversial...
The question arises: Should the state's Perikatan Nasional assemblymen, including seven from PAS, clarify their position on this matter? Jagdeep, also the Datuk Keramat assemblyman, was confronted with this query.
Fawwaz Jan, Penang PAS's information chief, had previously stated that the case should be handled through legal channels, free from political interference. This stance, however, drew criticism from Steven Sim, the Penang DAP chief, who believes voters have a right to know if their representatives might betray Penang.
Penang's response to Kedah's demand is clear: "Don't threaten us," says Jagdeep, a former lawyer. "We are a law-abiding state, and we won't back down."
Sanusi Nor, the Kedah menteri besar, has been pushing for a higher lease payment, but the Penang government stands firm, citing the Federal Constitution and historical context.
"They must be prepared for the consequences of their actions," Jagdeep warns.
Sanusi had announced on November 10th that Kedah is in the process of appointing a legal team to take the matter to court. He had previously stated that the federal government had been paying on Penang's behalf, with the amount increasing from RM10,000 to RM10 million in 2018.
However, the Penang government and historians argue that the territories were effectively ceded after Merdeka, and no formal lease document exists.
So, is this a case of historical misunderstanding or a deliberate attempt to assert power?
What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss this intriguing political development!
