PENANG’s constitutional status is unquestionable, and any attempt to challenge it has “no basis whatsoever”, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo stressed when responding to a reporter’s query during the Penang Deepavali Open House at SJKC Shang Wu in Air Itam earlier today.
Jagdeep was asked to comment on Kedah’s repeated demands for “lease payments” and the perceived reluctance of Penang PAS to speak out against Kedah PAS over the issue.
Firm in his response, Jagdeep said the state government would not be drawn into commenting on political ties between the two PAS divisions, but emphasised that Penang’s sovereignty remains protected under the Federal Constitution, the supreme law of the nation.
“I will not comment on the relationship between Penang PAS and Kedah PAS.
“But let me be very clear: constitutionally, it cannot be done. The Constitution is the highest law of the land,” he said.
Jagdeep challenged any party seeking to dispute Penang’s status to take the matter to court, saying the state was fully prepared to defend itself
“If anyone from any state wants to take us to court, we are ready. But they will never do it because they know they are going downhill.
“Constitutionally, there is no basis whatsoever. Do not come and threaten us. This government doesn’t take threats,” said a firm Jagdeep.
Calling the repeated statements from Kedah “reckless”, he warned that those pushing unfounded claims must be prepared to “face the music”.
When asked about the upcoming State Legislative Assembly sitting and whether Perikatan Nasional assemblymen would declare their stance on the issue, Jagdeep said they were free to express themselves, but he believed they ultimately stood with Penang.
Jagdeep reiterated the state government’s confidence and readiness to defend Penang’s constitutional position unequivocally.
The Penang Deepavali Open House drew hundreds of visitors, reflecting the state’s spirit of unity and cultural celebration amid ongoing political discourse.
It was graced by the presence of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his consort, Yang Mulia Toh Puan Raja Datuk Seri Utama Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah.
Also present were Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and wife Tan Lean Kee, Penang State Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, and others.