A minor ‘attack’ on Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has convinced him of the need to beef up security in the Komtar building, where his office is located.

In the 7.20pm incident on Monday, a man hit Lim on the shoulder, accusing him of being “anti-Malay” and claiming that the state government has not helped the Malay community in Tanjong Tokong.

lim guan eng comments on keshvinder quit dap 160610 He said there were problems due to development projects in the area, but Lim (right) explained that these are under the jurisdiction of the federal government.

The man, 63, had been waiting in the drivers’ room at the VIP car park at Level 2 in Komtar, although only drivers are allowed in the area.

Lim was about to leave for a concert at Dewan Sri Pinang, but chose to entertain him first.

“Maybe they feel that we run a family and have an open government but when there are confused individuals, things like this can happen,” said Lim.

“I hope to meet anyone in public but after this incident, I have to listen to the advice of the police and the security personnel.

“I allow everyone to get near me, I am not suspicious and usually want to find out what their problems are. I entertain them but maybe this approach is not applicable now. There should be more security instead of an open system.”

Assailant ‘confused’

Lim said there should not be any speculation regarding the matter as the police are investigating the matter.

“It is an unfortunate matter but need not be played up again and again. I do not want to press charges since I think he is very confused and needs help.

“But since it happened to the person of the chief minister, the police say they want to investigate.”

Lim said he believes his assailant is not from Tanjung Tokong as the residents are already aware that the projects are under the federal government.

He added that security is relaxed in Penang where he is only accompanied by a bodyguard, compared to his colleagues in other states who have more protection.