Dr Norlela Ariffin (PKR-Penanti) confirmed a Malaysiakini report yesterday that plans were afoot to “neutralise” the motion and hoped the move would receive bipartisan support.
The PKR 5 comprise Norlela, along with Ong Chin Wen (Bukit Tengah), Dr T Jayabalan (Batu Uban), Lee Khai Loon (Machang Bubuk) and Cheah Kah Peng (Kebun Bunga).
The five PKR assemblymen had courted controversy when they had abstained from voting on a Umno motion opposing the state’s reclamation plans last year.
Norlela confirmed that the emergency motion was submitted to Speaker Law Choo Kiang (PKR-Bukit Tambun) two days ago.
“Alhamduililah, we negotiated and lobbied with all parties concerned.
“All agreed with what is about to take place.
“I can only tell you that the motion will involve the insertion of words to reflect environmental studies, technical approvals and an alternative funding mechanism for projects.”
Umno’s Pulau Betong Assemblyman Muhammad Farid Saad had much earlier submitted a motion titled: “To urge the state government to cancel reclamation works involving some 4,000 acres at the south of Penang Island and seek alternative financing for the RM27 billion Penang Transport Master Plan.”
His motion was approved for debate.
An emergency motion to alter any person’s motion is possible in the assembly.
According to the State Legislative Assembly House Rules, under Section 34(i), involving “Motions without notification”, a motion to amend another motion that is being debated is allowed with the Speaker’s consent.
According to the Malaysiakini report, the motion will ensure the reclamation projects are reviewed by the Penang Transport Council, based on Detailed Environmental Impact Assessments.
Federal funding, too, would be sought to ensure a “feasible and sustainable funding model”, the report read.
It was also reported that the PKR 5 assemblymen would be inducted into the Penang Transport Council.
“The emergency motion will be read out by Penang Executive Councillor Chow Kon Yeow and seconded by Norlela.” the report read.
The state assembly is expected to end late tonight as assemblymen resume their winding-up speeches. It is only after these speeches that motions will be put forth for a vote to be debated.