More calls for Lim Guan Eng to go on leave

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has once again been urged to go on leave after the High Court here set the dates of his and that of businesswoman Phang Li Koon's corruption trial, beginning in March, next year.

State MCA Youth deputy chief, Ang Chor Keong said Lim should do so to ensure uninterrupted state administration and in the interest of the people of Penang.

"Before this, perhaps he (Lim) did not have to take leave, but now the court has set the hearing dates, so in the interest and wishes of the people, he needs to take temporary leave.

"The duty of the chief minister is heavy, as it involves economic growth, foreign investments inflow and the welfare of the people," Ang said at a press conference, here, today.

On Dec 6, the court set 34 days from March 27, 2017, for the corruption trial of Lim and Phang over the purchase of a bungalow by Lim from Phang at below market value.

Judge Datuk Hadhariah Syed Ismail said the hearing dates set by the court could not be changed as these dates were agreed to by the prosecution and defence teams.

The hearings are on March 27-31, April 10-14, April 24-28, May 15-19, May 29-June 2, June 13-16 and July 17-21, next year. -- BERNAMA