Penang gets less than it gives to Putrajaya, Chow reminds Sanusi
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has pushed back against claims by Kedah's menteri besar that Penang receives preferential federal treatment. Chow highlighted that Penang contributes significantly more in tax revenue than it receives in federal funding, advocating for a balanced approach to national development.
Why it matters
This highlights ongoing tensions regarding fiscal federalism and resource allocation between Malaysia's states and the central government.
Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow looking over an exhibit of photographs of the state's double-decker ferries which were retired in 2020 after six decades.
GEORGE TOWN: Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow has reminded Kedah menteri besar Sanusi Nor that Penang receives less than it contributes to the federal coffers, after Sanusi claimed that Penang receives preferential treatment from Putrajaya.
Chow pointed out that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said in the Dewan Rakyat on June 30 that Penang received an annual average of RM7.9 billion from 2023 to 2025, despite contributing an annual average of RM10.7 billion in tax revenue.
Chow said Kedah was among some states that received far more in federal funds despite contributing less, adding that the federal government must assist all states, regardless of their political alignment, in the spirit of federalism.
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