GEORGE TOWN: The Penang state assembly Deputy Speaker will receive a monthly allowance of RM6,500, up from RM1,996.50, following the passage of a Bill at the state assembly sitting on Thursday (Nov 5).
The increase of RM4,503.50, or about 226%, will take effect on Jan 1 next year.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the revision was necessary as Penang's Deputy Speaker currently receives the lowest allowance among counterparts in other states.
He said Deputy Speakers in other states received an average allowance of more than RM8,000.
"The proposed revision takes into account the responsibilities of the position, current allowance rates, comparisons with other states and the state government's financial capacity," he said when tabling the Administration Members and State Legislative Assembly Members (Remuneration) (Amendment) Bill 2026.
Chow said the Deputy Speaker played an important role in the assembly's leadership structure, including assisting the Speaker in managing proceedings and presiding over sittings when required.
He said the position also involved maintaining order during proceedings and upholding the integrity and credibility of the legislative institution.
Chow said the increase reflected the responsibilities of the position and would help strengthen the assembly's leadership structure.
However, he stressed that the revision must be assessed transparently and responsibly, taking into account its financial implications and accountability in managing public funds.
The amendment replaces the existing allowance of RM1,996.50 with RM6,500 under subsection 4(b) of the Administration Members and State Legislative Assembly Members (Remuneration) Enactment 1980.
In his winding-up speech, Chow thanked assemblymen for supporting the amendment, saying it reflected a shared commitment to strengthening the effectiveness and credibility of the state legislative assembly.
He said the revision would ensure that the Deputy Speaker's remuneration remained reasonable and commensurate with the responsibilities of the office.
