The apathy shown by the local media over the Penang Outer Ring Road project is truly disappointing. The whole project smacks of foul play, right from the day it was announced.

The government conveniently issued a statement that the project will commence next year and will be completed in 2007, and toll charges will be at RM1 at each of the four booths. The announcement was made on the quiet as if it was a done deal.

Chief Minister Dr Koh Tsu Koon has let down the people of Penang. The many problems plaguing the state today makes his resumé look bad, but that is assuming that accountability is part of our culture. Deputy Chief Minister and Penang Umno chief Dr Hilmi Yahya has been a little vocal, but for all the wrong reasons.

Can you imagine a politician coming out to announce that he, and the government, is ready to back the blacklisted company director who is in the consortium given the project award, should problems arise?

The people of Penang should wake up and realise what the project is going to cost the island. I cannot see the logic in having to pay toll for a road which has a trade-off three times its cost. It is absurd and ridiculous to the point where we must no longer sit quietly.

The government must rescind the award of this project, conduct an updated comprehensive study to show what Penang really needs.