Penang rep wants cops to probe cash-for-title allegations

(The Star) BUKIT MERTAJAM: A state assemblyman yesterday lodged a police report, seeking an investigation into claims over a report in a Chinese daily here that a former state Barisan Nasional leader was soliciting a Datukship title and was willing to fork out RM195,000 for it.

Padang Lalang assemblyman Michael Tan Cheong Heong lodged the report at the Central Seberang Prai district police headquarters

in Bandar Perda here at around 5pm.

In the report, Tan alleged that the daily had reported in its Friday edition that the former leader was allegedly trying to buy the title from certain quarters in Penang.

“An investigation must be carried out as the report has tarnished the image and reputation of the Pakatan Rakyat government which governs the state,” Tan said.

“It gives an impression that the state is selling titles at a price.

‘‘The report also affects the integrity of the Pakatan government and it is my duty to protect its integrity and good name.”

Penang CID chief Senior Asst Comm II Wan Abdullah Tuanku Said confirmed the report.