Summary
- Lim Guan Eng called on the Penang government to defer increases in water tariffs, land taxes and other charges.
- He said businesses and households were facing financial pressure amid economic uncertainty.
- Lim criticised the 20 sen per cubic metre increase in Penang’s average water tariff from July 1.
- He argued PBAPP could absorb a one-year deferment, citing its improved first-quarter 2026 financial performance.
GEORGE TOWN, September 4 — Air Putih assemblyman Lim Guan Eng urged the Penang government to defer increases in water tariffs, land taxes and other charges amid economic uncertainty.
Lim said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and state executive councillor Zairil Khir Johari should prioritise reducing financial pressure on households and businesses.
He criticised the 20 sen per cubic metre increase in the average water tariff that took effect July 1. Lim said PBAPP could financially withstand a one-year deferment.
Citing its first-quarter 2026 pre-tax profit of RM49.6 million, compared with RM23.1 million a year earlier. He suggested seeking federal assistance if additional funding was required.
