In his debate at the State Legislative Assembly today, he announced that eight assemblymen had backed the committee, despite initial reservations. He did not reveal who they were.

“The eight have agreed today to form the committee. I would like to thank them for making this a reality,” he told the state assembly today.

Teh said the committee was not part of the august house, but one that “straddles the house” and the state government.

Teh also applauded State Executive Councillor Chong Eng (DAP-Padang Lalang) for helping in the formation of the committee.

At a press conference later, Teh hoped the state government would provide financial assistance to help the committee “oil its gears”.

He said the committee would oversee issues related to transgender people in hospital, those under arrest and also to champion their rights to use public toilets.

“We will organise a symposium on transgender issues, in three parts, from July,” he said.

Teh had proposed a motion to form a transgender committee in May 2014, but it was rejected by the house.

At the time of writing, Penang Speaker Law Choo Kiang had not responded to queries on the legality of the committee.