THE Penang government should cease providing the annual RM8 million management grant to Penang Football Club (Penang FC), says Goh Choon Aik (PH–Bukit Tambun).
Goh noted that this year marks the fifth consecutive year the state government has channelled the RM8 million grant to Penang FC.
“At the time Penang FC was established, the state government only intended to provide the management grant for two years, with a plan to gradually release its shares to private parties or potential sponsors.
“However, due to the team’s lacklustre performance, Penang FC’s management which includes the Penang government has drawn criticism from supporters.
“Penang FC’s marketing plans have also been largely unsuccessful, private-sector sponsorships have not been sustainable, and the total sponsorship amount has continued to dwindle. Enough is enough!” he said during the Budget debate at the State Legislative Assembly today.
Goh emphasised that the state government should no longer shoulder this burden.
“Therefore, I propose that the RM8 million yearly management grant be redirected to the Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) for the development of other sports, and to the Penang Stadium and Open Spaces Corporation (PSDKLPP) to enhance sports and recreational facilities, in line with the Penang2030 vision under Theme A: Increasing liveability to enhance quality of life,” he said firmly.
Story by Riadz Akmal