KOTA Sentosa rep Wilfred Yap has refuted allegations by Stampin assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen, asserting that Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin had addressed all questions comprehensively during his winding-up speech in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) on the RM122 million hydrogen bus contract.
Yap dismissed Chong’s claims that Lee failed to provide answers on the award of the contract to a joint venture (JV) company involving SKS Coachbuilders Sdn Bhd and Sun Credit Sdn Bhd.
He noted that the Hansard of the proceedings clearly showed that the minister had clarified the matter in detail.
“In his speech, the minister explained that the JV company had met all technical and financial requirements, underwent the necessary clarification processes, and offered the lowest bid, which was 34 per cent lower than the second bidder.
“SKS Coachbuilders, as the lead partner, was financially sound and had sufficient credit facilities to execute the project.
“The minister also informed that the technology partner of the successful tenderer (JV company) is CRRC Electrical Vehicle Company Limited from China and that all the procurement processes had adhered to strict procedures and strict governance practices which are subjected to audit,” he stressed.
He said this during a press conference at the Media Room of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex today.
The chairman of the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Kota Sentosa branch noted that Chong had claimed he was denied the opportunity to interrupt or question Lee’s explanations.
However, he countered by citing Standing Order 33(b), which stipulates that interruptions are permitted only if the speaking member is willing to give way.
He stressed that Lee repeatedly requested compliance with the Standing Order to avoid unnecessary arguments.
“This standing order is similar to Standing Order 37 (1) (b) of Dewan Rakyat Malaysia,” he added.
Quoting the Hansard, Yap pointed out that Lee had stated, “It’s only fair I have given a very comprehensive clarification, point by point. If you don’t like it, it’s a different matter, but these are the facts that I have got.”
As such, he argued that this demonstrated Lee’s commitment to provide transparent explanations.
Yap urged Chong to adhere to the Standing Orders of the DUN Sarawak, emphasising that these procedural rules ensure the orderly conduct of debates in the House.
