KOTA KINABALU: A heated argument erupted in the Sabah State Assembly between Industrial Development Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe and Elopura assemblyman Calvin Chong over the Esteel green steel plant project in Sipitang and its rising costs.
Phoong accused Chong of politicising the issue outside the Assembly and lodging a police report without ever submitting formal questions inside the House.
“Why politicise investments?” he asked, expressing surprise and disappointment.
Chong denied any wrongdoing, insisting he had prepared questions and was acting on public concern.
“I’m an elected representative. What did I do wrong?” he said.
Phoong clarified that Chong had every right to speak publicly but never raised the issue officially in the Assembly. The debate intensified until Speaker Datuk Seri Kadzim Yahya intervened and redirected proceedings.
Opposition leader Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal urged the Speaker to allow further questions in the interest of transparency, but Kadzim maintained his ruling. He acknowledged Chong’s persistence, noting, “I know you’re brave enough to ask questions.”
