In a statement, PKR’s Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh questioned why the Perikatan Nasional-led (PN) government was still considering the redevelopment proposal despite clear objections by key stakeholders.

“There are many questions that need to be answered. What are the salient terms of the proposed takeover deal and why is there no open tender process?

“The government also needs to be transparent about the scope and terms of the proposed concession. What will happen to the legal status and interests of Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) in Subang airport?”

It was previously reported that construction and development company WCT Holdings Bhd, controlled by tycoon Desmond Lim, had submitted a proposal to operate the airport under a lease, with the government continuing to own the land and the airport.

The Ledang MP said it was perplexing that the minister was entertaining Lim’s proposal and not siding with MAHB.

He said MAHB was not only listed on Bursa Malaysia but is also a GLC and is 60% owned collectively by Khazanah, EPF, Permodalan Nasional and KWAP.

“Does Desmond Lim have special persuasive powers over the minister?” he asked.

With all these questions, Syed Ibrahim urged the government to reject the proposal and instead focus more efforts on containing the pandemic.

He said the suspension of Parliament should not be used as an opportune time to pursue opaque and controversial business deals.

“Since Parliament remains suspended and its ‘immediate’ reopening is uncertain, despite the clear message from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, I challenge the transport minister and the PN government to respond transparently to my questions immediately.”