Penang MCA has castigated political rival DAP as being "ignorant" about issues relating to the Penang Port Commission (PPC).

NONE State MCA Wanita chief Tan Cheng Liang pointed out that the DAP, which has highlighted the issue, cannot even differentiate between the PPC and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB).

She also claimed the DAP cannot even see the difference between port privatisation and free port status, which are "two totally separate issues".

"I am shocked that they do not know this in spite of explanations. They refuse to admit their mistakes and have slapped themselves on the cheek," Tan told a press conference in Penang.

"Let me advise them. If they are so ignorant, it is better for them not to issue so many statements which would only embarrass themselves.”

DAP leaders have been disputing the privatisation of the PPSB by the federal government.

chua soi lek debate lim guan eng They have claimed that it was MCA president Dr Chua Soi Lek's conspiracy to insulate the Penang economy and downgrade the port for the benefit of Johor, Chua's home state.

Tan, a former PPC chairperson, said the commission is a regulatory body under the Transport Ministry.

PPSB, which is under the Finance Ministry, has been corporatised and is undergoing full privatisation to enhance its performance and make Penang Port more competitive, she said.

Tan said the move was prompted by the "goodwill" of the federal government but that the DAP has politicised the issue to make it look as if "Penangites are being punished".

"This is a false accusation. If they have questions about the federal project, I challenge the DAP YBs (Liew Chin Tong and Chong Eng) to ask this in Parliament," said Tan.

"Otherwise, what is the point of people electing (them) and paying (their) monthly (allowance) as MPs?

"They should question the Unit Kerjasama Awam Swasta in the Prime Minister’s Department which is handling the privatisation administrative procedure.”