Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng announced the state assembly’s dissolution today, saying it was an “auspicious day” for ushering in the state election.

"Friday is most appropriate to dissolve the assembly, as it is the most auspicious day of the week.

“And we pray that it would bring blessings to all and hope the election process will be carried out peacefully,  without any disruption," said Lim in Komtar today.

NONE During his announcement, Lim stressed the date “2013" - taking a jibe at Prime Minister Najib Razak’s blunder during the latter’s dissolution speech two days ago - to laughter from the packed auditorium.

Lim, who is also DAP secretary-general added that Governor Abdul Rahman Abbas has endorsed the consent for the assembly's dissolution, and thanked everyone for giving Pakatan the chance to govern the state over the past term.

"We also pray that if there are changes and transition of power, it will happen in an organised and peaceful manner," Lim added.

"On behalf of Pakatan, we promise and guarantee that we will hand over power in Penang smoothly if we fail to win the elections."

Penang’s dissolution comes ahead of the state assembly's automatic expiry date o fMay 2, and polls must be called by May 28.

Lim’s administration is now effectively a caretaker government.

'The state scared of the people'

Meanwhile, Lim said the people were no longer fearful of the government, adding that currently, it was the state that was scared of the people.

NONE "We believe a lot more can be achieved. If you feel that (in) these five years, Penang has recorded a good performance, then surely the coming five years will be better because Penang deserves the best," he said.

"Let us ensure that the contest for the future of Penang will not be a contest of who are better at slander, hatred, (or) threats, but let it be a sincere contest of ideas, ideals, principles, and people-centric policies," he stressed.

"The opportunity to dream should be given to all children, and not only those who belong to the ministers and prime ministers - past and present," he quipped.

Lim said if Pakatan was given a mandate to continue to rule Penang, it would make Penang the No 1 state in Malaysia, in terms of intelligence and international status.

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