GEORGE TOWN, MALAYSIA - Penang may purchase Toyota Camry cars for official use in the future, said Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

He said Penang might buy the cars, which he said were cheaper than the Proton Perdana V6, after seeking approval from the Federal Government.

"Since Terengganu is allowed to keep 14 Mercedes-Benzes costing RM3.43mil, Penang should be allowed to buy Toyota cars in future," he told reporters yesterday.

Lim described the decision to allow Terengganu to keep its Mercedes-Benzes to be used for foreign dignitaries only as inappropriate especially when many people were suffering during the economic slowdown.

"What's the regularity of foreign dignitaries visiting Terengganu? How often do even the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister or Sultans visit the state?

"If the cars are not going to be used often, what's the point of keeping them? This is an example of how public funds are misused by Barisan Nasional leaders," he added.

Lim said he was surprised that no action would be taken against Terengganu for defying the federal directive, which states that the Proton Perdana is the official car for executive council members and ex-officio members.