GEORGE TOWN, November 26 – Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow confirmed that the state government will maintain the RM60,000 annual allocation for opposition assemblymen in 2025, with no plans to increase the amount. He explained that the current allocation is sufficient as each opposition constituency has a coordinating officer, who also receives RM100,000 for local needs.
Chow responded to concerns raised by opposition members during the state legislative assembly, clarifying that the difference in funding is due to the need for separate treatment of government and opposition representatives. Chow further stated that opposition assemblymen are still able to apply for funds through the state government’s “no wrong doors” policy, ensuring that resources are allocated based on the needs of the people, irrespective of political affiliation.
The Penang government’s approach contrasts with some states like Kelantan and Perak, where equal allocations are given to all assemblymen. However, Chow noted that until the federal government adopts a similar policy for MPs, Penang would not consider equal funding for opposition assemblymen.
