GEORGE TOWN, MALAYSIA: Penang will continue to implement the 30% quota for bumiputras.

"In housing, the state aims to speed up the quota release process to ease the financial burden of developers," Deputy Chief Minister I Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin (PKR - Penanti) said in a written reply to Datuk Arif Shah Omar Shah (BN - Seberang Jaya).

He also said the quota was also to enable bumiputras to take part in the economic sector with emphasis on capacity-building.

"Bumiputra entrepreneurs will be offered financial aid and training to help them master information and communications technology, management, accounting and marketing skills.

"More affordable business premises will be provided which entrepreneurs can rent or buy to start their businesses," he said, adding that they would also introduce the Pekan Rabu concept where small business lots at shopping complexes in the city are put up for sale or rent.

He said the state would continue to encourage bumiputra farmers and fishermen to adopt modern technology.

On traffic problems, state local government, traffic management and environment committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow (DAP - Padang Kota) said the state has drawn up a localised traffic management plan.

"The state is also aiming to provide a shuttle bus service in George Town by Jan 1. It is considering a hybrid electric tram system for the city," he said.