Consortium Zenith threatens to sue over fake Penang tunnel news

KUALA LUMPUR (April 25): The main contractor of the Penang undersea tunnel project has threatened to sue any party spreading fake news about it and the project via social media and other channels.

Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (CZC), a unit of Vertice Bhd, said the company and the Penang mega infrastructure project have once again been the “subject of political talking points by irresponsible parties” recently.

The RM6.3 billion mega project, comprising a 7.2km undersea tunnel and three major roads, was awarded to CZC through an open tender by the state government in 2013.

“As an apolitical business entity, CZC respects constructive criticisms which were given in good faith based on actual facts and figures. However, it is regrettable that politically-motivated allegations were relentlessly and unjustly hurled at CZC by irresponsible parties,” it said, adding the allegations cannot be substantiated and had invariably cast doubts on the project.

“CZC reiterates that any speculation, insinuation or aspersion upon CZC or the project by any parties are deemed as defamatory.

“CZC shall initiate defamation suits against such parties who spread fake news and false information about CZC and/or the project through media platforms including social media and other channels,” the company said.

The company reaffirms its commitment to move ahead with the construction of the project.

“Barring any unforeseen circumstances, CZC is committed to ensure the full delivery of the project to our client,” it said.

Shares in Vertice fell 0.5 sen or 0.58% to 85 sen yesterday, with a market capitalisation of RM123.42 million.

This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, on April 25, 2018.

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