GEORGE TOWN (July 30, 2010): The prosecution of of former MCA president and transport minister Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik is a step forward in the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) scandal, says DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng.

However, he said others who are involved with this multi-billion ringgit scandal must be brought to book as well. "It is hard to believe that one person is involved. How can one person alone be the mastermind of the PKFZ scandal?" he asked.

Lim, who is also Penang Chief Minister, said for genuine reform to take place, the authorities must get to the root of the scandals.

"We hope and wait for more steps forward, then we can see an overall change," Lim told reporters this after opening the NGC Garter (M) Sdn Bhd facility here in Bayan Lepas.

In an unrelated issue, Lim said the state government is taking action against illegal beach operators along Batu Feringghi beach.

He said the local authorities, including police, are taking a systematic approach in tackling the issue.

"We are taking step-by-step measures, which includes consultation and education among the stakeholders," he said. "When all fails, enforcement action is taken."

Lim also added that the state police are carrying out operations and monitoring the area as well.

He was saying this in response to the call made by Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen to act against the illegal beach boys using the authority the state government has under the Personal Water Craft (Penang) Enactment 1999.

"Although Ng is the Penang MCA liaison chairperson and Tourism Minister, she not in Penang most of the time, and she has not been properly informed by her staff on what is going on here," Lim said. - theSun