In big trouble: A council enforcement officer issuing parking summons to a traffic offender in George Town, Penang.
MOTORISTS are angered over the new compound rate implemented by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) for illegal parking as there are insufficient parking spaces especially in the George Town enclave.
The situation has become more complex with business operators and houseowners placing objects in front of their premises to deter others from parking.
A postgraduate student Marianna Loke, 28, said it was tiresome to find a parking space especially in George Town.
“At times, I have to search for more than 30 minutes and I still can’t find one. I have to park at a non-designated lot if I’m in a rush.
“I think asking us to pay RM100 for illegal parking is not right,” she said when met at a food outlet at Lebuh Penang yesterday.
She added that irresponsible people who ‘reserve’ the parking lots with objects should also be blamed.
Meanwhile, businessman Abu Hassan Pakeer Mohd, 40, said ticketing motorists was necessary.
“There are those who would simply park their vehicles along the road without considering the consequences.
“By issuing a higher compound, I believe these motorists will learn their lessons,” he added.
He agreed that people who block the council parking bays should be compounded as well.
It was reported that motorists who park their vehicles illegally or haphazardly on Penang island will be slapped with a RM100 compound from Aug 1.
The new penalty rate also refers to those who park at non-designated lots, lots meant for the disabled (OKU), on five-foot way and bicycle lanes.
However, when contacted yesterday, council Financial Management Committee alternate chairman Joseph Ng said the compound for parking at non-designated lots is still being reviewed.
“The penalty for parking at non-designated lots is under review as we have received feedback that it is too high.
“However, the compound for parking at disabled lots and bicycle lane remains the same at RM100,” he said.
Ng added that it was not easy to haul up those who ‘reserve’ the parking bays with objects as the council would need evidence and proof.
