Lim Guan Eng

Lim is the son of Lim Kit Siang, Leader of the Opposition in the Malaysian House of Representatives from 1973 to 1999 and 2004 to 2008. He is married to Betty Chew Gek Cheng (周玉清), who was former two-term MLA for Kota Laksamana in Malacca. She is the first serving assemblywoman to be married to a Chief Minister. They have four children.{{cite web|url=http://www.dapmalaysia.org/newenglish/Biodata%20SG.htm |title=Biodata: Lim Guan Eng |access-date=2008-02-27 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303021203/http://www.dapmalaysia.org/newenglish/Biodata%20SG.htm |archive-date= 3 March 2008 }} His younger sister Lim Hui Ying is the MP for Tanjong.

Lim attended La Salle Primary English School in Petaling Jaya, and later the Batu Pahat Montfort Primary English School. For his secondary education, he attended Batu Pahat High School and Malacca High School. He graduated from Monash University in Australia with a Bachelor of Economics (BEc). He also served as the president of MUISS (Monash University International Student Society) during his university years.

Prior to his political career, Lim was a senior executive at a bank. He was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Kota Melaka in 1986, defeating Soh Chin Aun with a majority of 17,606 votes. He was re-elected in the 1990 and 1995 general elections, albeit with reduced majorities. He thus became the first person to be elected to three consecutive terms in Kota Melaka. He was also the first Malacca High School alumnus to achieve this.

He was appointed the DAP Socialist Youth chairman in 1989 and was formally elected to that post in 1992. In 1995, he was elected the DAP Deputy Secretary-General. He was elected the party's Secretary-General in 2004, and held that position until 2022. The same year, he was elected as National Chairman of the party.

In 2005, Lim suffered a surprise defeat in his campaign for re-election to the Malacca DAP committee. However, as Lim remained Secretary-General of the party, he was automatically included in the committee in accordance with the party's constitution. His wife, who had also failed to be elected to the Melaka committee, was not included in the committee even though she remained the chief of the state's DAP women's wing.{{ref label|voted_out|1|a}} Teresa Kok, a DAP MP, suggested that there was a conspiracy behind the Lims' failure to be reelected.{{ref|conspiracy}} Nevertheless, Lim went on to garner the second highest number of votes (620)[http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/8/23/nation/20080823192404&sec=nation] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080829121424/http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F8%2F23%2Fnation%2F20080823192404&sec=nation|date=29 August 2008}} at the party's 15th National Congress on 23 August 2008.

File:LimGE.jpg

In the 2008 Malaysian general election, the DAP-PKR-PAS coalition, later known as Pakatan Rakyat (PR), won 29 out of the 40 state assembly seats contested in Penang, defeating the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition. The DAP won 19 seats, PKR 9 seats, and PAS 1.{{cite web|url=http://thestar.com.my/election/results/05/05nopp.html |title=The Star Online: Election 2008 : Malaysia Decides 2008 |access-date=2008-03-18 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080621234240/http://thestar.com.my/election/results/05/05nopp.html |archive-date=21 June 2008 }} Even though Lim is not a Penangite, he was nominated to be the Chief Minister (CM) of Penang, replacing the former Chief Minister Dr. Koh Tsu Koon of Malaysian People's Movement Party (Gerakan). Other senior DAP leaders of Penang such as Lim Hock Seng, Phee Boon Poh, and Chow Kon Yeow were bypassed and were instead appointed state executive council members. In the 2013 Malaysian general election, Pakatan Rakyat increased their majority, gaining 30 out of the 40 state seats in Penang.{{cite web |url=http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/ge13/13th-malaysian-general-election-result.html |title=13th Malaysian General Election Result (GE13) |website=Freemalaysiatoday.com |access-date=2017-04-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150524115834/http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/ge13/13th-malaysian-general-election-result.html |archive-date=24 May 2015 |url-status=dead }}

When he took over as the new Penang CM, Lim announced an amnesty on all summonses issued by the Penang Island City Council and Seberang Perai Municipal Council involving vendors' licences and parking offences issued before March 2008.

On 14 March 2008, a group of mostly of UMNO members and supporters demonstrated to protest Lim's announcement that the state would utilise an open tender system and operate "free of the New Economic Policy (NEP)". His statement was also the subject of a police report lodged by a lawyer, who claimed that Lim's statements were "seditious, racist, irresponsible and may endanger public peace and national security".[http://thestar.com.my/election/story.asp?file=/2008/3/17/election2008/20080317112740&sec=election2008] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080412182204/http://thestar.com.my/election/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F3%2F17%2Felection2008%2F20080317112740&sec=Election2008|date=12 April 2008}} Lim later announced that the state government had approved an open tender system for state projects exceeding RM 50,000, whereas projects between RM20,000 and RM50,000, a balloting system was introduced. A two-week objection period was put in place for both the open tender and balloting systems.[http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/3/19/nation/20080319180221&sec=nation] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081009133721/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F3%2F19%2Fnation%2F20080319180221&sec=nation|date=9 October 2008}}

During Lim's tenure as CM, Penang maintained its rank as one of the top states for investments in Malaysia. The state attracted RM12.2 billion worth of capital investments in 2010, which accounted for 25% of the total investments in Malaysia. This was a 465% increase on the investment of RM2.17 billion in 2009. In 2011, Penang was the top state in terms of manufacturing investments in Malaysia for the second consecutive year, attracting RM9.1 billion in total. However, using a new measure of total investment that took into account the manufacturing, services and private sectors, Penang ranked second in Malaysia after Sarawak in total investments, with a total amount of RM14.038 billion. This was due to it not having much in terms of primary sector investments.[http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?sec=nation&file=/2011/1/20/nation/7831229] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111125082649/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?sec=nation&file=%2F2011%2F1%2F20%2Fnation%2F7831229|date=25 November 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://investpenang.gov.my/portal/pdf/penang_investment_updates_Nov_2011.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2011-12-18 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426061218/http://investpenang.gov.my/portal/pdf/penang_investment_updates_Nov_2011.pdf |archive-date=26 April 2012 }}{{cite web|url=http://limguaneng.com/index.php/2012/02/22/1-6-million-penangites-deserve-full-credit-for-the-historic-feat-of-penang-being-no-1-in-malaysia-in-manufacturing-investment-for-the-2nd-consecutive-year-in-2011-enbmcn/ |title=1.6 Million Penangites Deserve Full Credit for the Historic Feat of Penang Being No. 1 in Malaysia in Manufacturing Investment for the 2nd Consecutive Year in 2011.(en/Bm/Cn) « Lim Guan Eng |access-date=2014-09-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140502040223/http://limguaneng.com/index.php/2012/02/22/1-6-million-penangites-deserve-full-credit-for-the-historic-feat-of-penang-being-no-1-in-malaysia-in-manufacturing-investment-for-the-2nd-consecutive-year-in-2011-enbmcn/ |archive-date= 2 May 2014 }}

The public debt in Penang decreased by 95% from RM630 million in 2008 to RM30 million at the end of 2011.{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/you-too-can-be-like-penang-guan-eng-tells-malaysia/ |title=You too can be like Penang, Guan Eng tells Malaysia - the Malaysian Insider |access-date=2014-09-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140820081529/https://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/you-too-can-be-like-penang-guan-eng-tells-malaysia/ |archive-date=20 August 2014 }} In 2014, Penang recorded a total of RM8.16 billion in investments, which was a 109% increase.{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/penang-records-109-increase-in-investments |title=Penang records 109% increase in investments - the Malaysian Insider |access-date=2015-02-27 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227135357/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/penang-records-109-increase-in-investments |archive-date=27 February 2015 }} Manufacturing investment in Penang increased by 87% to RM53.9 billion in the 2008-2016 period compared to RM24.9 billion in the 2000-2007 period, with a 17% increase in job creation.[http://limguaneng.com/index.php/2016/10/09/penangs-2015-economic-growth-rate-of-5-5-in-2015-is-higher-than-malaysias-growth-rate-of-5-but-lower-than-penangs-8-economic-growth-rate-recorded-in-2014-due-to-the-imposition-o/#more-5286Daniel J. Travanti] Foreign investments (FDI) also increased by 62.5% to RM36.7 billion in the 2008-2015 period compared to RM22.6 billion during 2000–2007. Penang's economic growth rate in 2015 was 5.5%, which was higher than Malaysia's growth rate of 5%. Penang has an unemployment rate of 1.5% compared to the national unemployment rate of 3.1%.

On 28 April 2011, Lim signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with China, witnessed by the Chinese premier Wen Jiabao and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, on the proposal to construct three roads and an undersea tunnel on Penang island. The 6.5 km undersea tunnel is to be the third link between the island and Butterworth on the mainland. According to Lim, this would ease traffic congestion in the state and improve the links between the island and the mainland.{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/penang-china-ink-deal-on-butterworth-tunnel-link/ |title=Penang, China ink deal on Butterworth tunnel link - the Malaysian Insider |access-date=2011-12-18 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110501064227/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/penang-china-ink-deal-on-butterworth-tunnel-link |archive-date= 1 May 2011 }}

On 25 July 2014, the Penang state government unveiled the RM27 billion Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), which comprised an integrated transportation network connecting both Penang Island and Seberang Perai. The PTMP aims to achieve a road network and dispersal system as well as a sustainable public transport system, combining busses, trams, rapid transit, and water taxis. The project was expected to start in 2015 and be completed in 2030.{{cite news|url=http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/penang-embarks-on-rm27b-transport-masterplan-with-mrt-trams-water-cabs |title=Penang embarks on RM27b transport masterplan with MRT, trams, water cabs | Malaysia |newspaper=Malay Mail Online |date=2014-07-25 |access-date=2017-04-02}}

During Lim's tenure, the Penang Island Municipal Council was officially upgraded to city council status on 1 January 2015 by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The state government had been applying to the Malaysian federal government to grant city status since January 2010.{{cite news|url=http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/penang-now-officially-a-city |title=Penang now officially a city | Malaysia |newspaper=Malay Mail Online |date=1957-01-01 |access-date=2017-04-02}}

File:Lim Guan Eng (cropped).jpg

Led by Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, the Penang state government practised the concept of Competency, Accountability, and Transparency (CAT) in governance. The concept guides the state government in achieving efficient, responsible, and clean governance.{{cite web |url=http://www.penangcatcentre.my/faq.aspx |title=The Penang Career Assistance and Talent Centre - FAQ |website=Penangcatcentre.my |date=2017-03-29 |access-date=2017-04-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425231233/http://www.penangcatcentre.my/faq.aspx |archive-date=25 April 2017 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }} It also aims to turn Penang into a cleaner, greener and safer state. The CAT concept encourages positive work ethics and team spirit. It has helped the state government to record budget surpluses and successfully attract RM 12.2 billion in capital investments.{{cite web|url=http://dapmalaysia.org/english/2011/feb11/lge/lge1218.htm |title=Only 6% of the population yet Penang contributes 36% of Malaysia's FDI in 2010: Penang must not live in the past but learn from the past so that we can save the future for our children |access-date=2014-09-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140618192836/http://dapmalaysia.org/english/2011/feb11/lge/lge1218.htm |archive-date=18 June 2014 }} According to the international weekly news magazine The Economist, the reform of the state government has ended the cronyism and corruption that led to major deficits under the previous regime.{{cite news | url= http://www.economist.com/node/21525968 | title= Getting back its mojo | newspaper=The Economist | date=13 August 2011}}

The Penang state government under Lim received praise from the Auditor-General as the best financially managed state in Malaysia from 2008 to 2010. According to the AG's report, the consolidated fund increased by 2.7%, from RM 1101.89 million in 2009 to RM 1131.17 million in 2010. Likewise, the consolidated revenue fund has grown by 6.2% from RM 538.95 million in 2009 to RM 572.49 million in 2010.{{cite web|url=http://penangmonthly.com/top-of-the-class-penang-shines-in-auditor-generals-report/ |title=Penang Monthly— Top of the class: Penang shines in Auditor-General's Report |access-date=2012-05-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414045008/http://penangmonthly.com/top-of-the-class-penang-shines-in-auditor-generals-report |archive-date=14 April 2012 }} Lim's state government has also won accolades from Transparency International for implementing open tenders in awarding contracts.{{cite web|url=http://dapmalaysia.org/english/2012/jan12/lge/lge1458.htm |title=Penang State EXCO members publicly declare their assets today |access-date=2012-05-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120624022351/http://dapmalaysia.org/english/2012/jan12/lge/lge1458.htm |archive-date=24 June 2012 }}

The record budget surpluses were channeled to social welfare programs such as financial aid to the hardcore poor, cash handouts to the elderly, public housing upgrades, free Wi-Fi service at selected hot spots, and free bus services within the city and between Penang island and Seberang Perai for workers.{{cite web|url=http://www.theedgemalaysia.com/highlights/197693-guan-eng-open-tenders-key-to-penangs-efficiency.html |title=Guan Eng: Open tenders key to Penang's efficiency |access-date=2011-12-19 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615072704/http://www.theedgemalaysia.com/highlights/197693-guan-eng-open-tenders-key-to-penangs-efficiency.html |archive-date=15 June 2012 }} Social welfare aid of RM 100 is awarded annually to senior citizens, single mothers, disabled individuals, new-born babies, and school-going pupils in Primary 1 and 4 as well as Form 1 and 4.

The SMART Centre Penang is an initiative set up by the Penang state government and InvestPenang during the Penang Outlook Forum in June 2009 chaired by Lim. The SMART Centre intends to provide market intelligence, business advice, information, resources and training services to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Penang. It focuses on the promotion of local sourcing, investments and networking by running various programs such as business matching, seminars and talks.{{cite web|url=http://smartpenang.my/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=43&Itemid=91 |title=SMART centre Penang |website=Smartpenang.my |access-date=2017-04-02}}

Under Pakatan Rakyat's Agenda Ekonomi Sosial (AES) or Social Economic Agenda, the Penang state government is aiming to be the first state in Malaysia to eradicate poverty by ensuring every household in Penang has an income of at least RM 770 per month. The poverty line is RM 763 per month for every household/family in Peninsular Malaysia. Families with less than RM 770 in monthly income will have the difference topped up by the state government every month.{{cite web|url=http://limguaneng.com/index.php/2013/01/01/penang-will-see-2013-as-ending-poverty-and-continue-the-successes-of-fighting-corruption-so-that-there-are-no-3rd-class-ecoomic-citizens/ |title=Penang Will See 2013 as Ending Poverty and Continue the Successes of Fighting Corruption So That There Are No 3rd Class Ecoomic Citizens.(en/Bm/Cn) « Lim Guan Eng |access-date=2013-01-01 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130104030319/http://limguaneng.com/index.php/2013/01/01/penang-will-see-2013-as-ending-poverty-and-continue-the-successes-of-fighting-corruption-so-that-there-are-no-3rd-class-ecoomic-citizens/ |archive-date= 4 January 2013 }}

Aside from that, the Penang state government under Lim began to give annual allocations to Chinese independent high schools{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2014/01/05/Lim-defends-Tganu-remark-Penang-CM-Purchase-of-14-Mercedes-was-not-value-for-money/ |title=Penang CM: Purchase of 14 Mercedes was not value for money - Nation | The Star Online |website=Thestar.com.my |date=2014-01-05 |access-date=2017-04-02}} and also increased annual allocations to Chinese, Tamil and mission schools in Penang which are either not funded or only partially funded by the Education Ministry of Malaysia.{{Citation needed|date=November 2014}}

On 7 June 2014, Lim donated RM 20,000 to the soup kitchen, The Lighthouse, to assist the organisation's efforts in feeding the homeless and poor.{{cite web|url=http://www.therocket.com.my/en/penang-chief-minister-donates-rm20000-to-the-lighthouse/ |title=Penang Chief Minister donates RM20,000 to NGO the Lighthouse |access-date=2014-07-08 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140712031146/http://www.therocket.com.my/en/penang-chief-minister-donates-rm20000-to-the-lighthouse/ |archive-date=12 July 2014 }}

On 1 April 2015, the Penang state government under Lim launched the 'Penang Future Foundation (PFF)' scholarship program, which awards scholarships to outstanding young Malaysian students who wish to pursue their undergraduate studies at local private higher educational institutions. Scholarship recipients are required to work in Penang after they graduate. The scholarship program is administered by the Penang state government but is fully funded by the private sector to ensure its sustainability in the long run. This program was launched to attract young talented people to work in the state.{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/penang-launches-rm20-million-fund-for-student-scholarships |title=Penang launches RM20 million fund for scholarships - the Malaysian Insider |access-date=2015-04-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402163658/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/penang-launches-rm20-million-fund-for-student-scholarships |archive-date= 2 April 2015 }}

{{cite web|url=https://www.penang.gov.my/en/dmedia/3260-fest-of-india-it-exhibitions |title=Portal Rasmi Kerajaan Negeri Pulau Pinang - Fest of India - IT Exhibitions |website=Penang.gov.my |access-date=2017-04-02}}

Cleaner, Greener Penang is an initiative by the Penang state government launched in 2010 as part of an effort to transform Penang into the most environmentally friendly and liveable city in Malaysia through education, enforcement and appreciation. This is to restore the current living environment into a cleaner and more sustainable city, which in turn will improve the quality of living.{{cite web|url=http://limguaneng.com/index.php/2010/06/05/a-cleaner-greener-penang-through-education-enforcement-and-appreciation-to-make-penang-the-most-environmentally-sound-and-livable-city-in-malaysia/ |title=A "Cleaner, Greener Penang" Through Education, Enforcement and Appreciation to Make Penang the Most Environmentally Sound and Livable City in Malaysia. « Lim Guan Eng |access-date=2011-12-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120125065028/http://limguaneng.com/index.php/2010/06/05/a-cleaner-greener-penang-through-education-enforcement-and-appreciation-to-make-penang-the-most-environmentally-sound-and-livable-city-in-malaysia/ |archive-date=25 January 2012 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.cleanergreenerpenang.com/ |title=Welcome to A Cleaner, Greener Penang |website=Cleanergreenerpenang.com |access-date=2017-04-02}}

The Penang state government, led by Lim, enforced the ban on free plastic bags throughout the state on 1 January 2010, despite an initial lukewarm response from retail outlets. Lim said the move would reduce the state's garbage production and carbon footprint. Retail stores, food outlets and hawker stalls statewide are required to adhere to the rulings to ensure renewal of business licences. The proceedings from the sale of plastic bags went to the "Partners Against Poverty" Special Fund to assist the state's hardcore poor. This initiative was the first of its kind in Malaysia.{{cite web|url=http://www.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne+News/Malaysia/Story/A1Story20101103-245440.html |title=No plastic bags in Penang from January |website=Asiaone.com |access-date=2017-04-02}}{{cite web|url=http://www.penang.gov.my/index.php/pusat-media/koleksi-ucapan-yab-km/633-launching-of-everyday-is-no-free-plastic-bags-day |title=Portal Rasmi Kerajaan Negeri Pulau Pinang - Launching of Everyday is No Free Plastic Bags Day |website=Penang.gov.my |date=2011-01-01 |access-date=2017-04-02}}[http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/5/23/nation/3967153&sec=nation] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120504112647/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2009%2F5%2F23%2Fnation%2F3967153&sec=nation|date=4 May 2012}}

On 11 December 2011, Lim initiated the Car Free Day which would be held every Sunday at particular stretches of roads in the interior city of George Town, Penang. All motor vehicles are prohibited from entering these areas on that day, which are part of Lim's efforts to transform Penang into a sustainable city and fight climate change.[http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/12/12/north/10079030&sec=nort] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107052742/http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=%2F2011%2F12%2F12%2Fnorth%2F10079030|date=7 January 2012}} In addition, the state government is also considering a proposal to set up bicycle lanes around Penang island, mainly along coastal areas and Seberang Perai, scheduled to be completed by 2020.{{cite web |url=http://www.thesundaily.my/news/139339 |title=Penang mulls bicycle lanes on island | theSundaily |website=www.thesundaily.my |access-date=2 February 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120912173527/http://www.thesundaily.my/news/139339 |archive-date=12 September 2012 |url-status=dead}} The dedicated bicycle lanes in Penang island will cover a coastal route between Penang Second Bridge to Batu Maung and Teluk Bahang. In Seberang Perai, it will cover a 140 km stretch including state and town roads and is subjected to feedback from the public. Lim wanted to promote Penang as the first state to promote cycling as a healthy activity and reduce dependency on motor vehicles.{{cite web |url=http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/12/15/north/10096525&sec=north |title=Cycle lanes mooted for mainland |website=thestar.com.my |access-date=2 February 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120731102516/http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/12/15/north/10096525&sec=north |archive-date=31 July 2012 |url-status=dead}}

On 1 August 2014, the Penang state government implemented a bicycle sharing system in its effort to transform George Town into a greener and more sustainable city. It awarded a RM9.2 million contract to Public Bike Share Sdn. Bhd. to design, install and operate the bicycle sharing system in the city. The system consists of 25 bicycle stations with 1,000 bicycle docks and 500 bicycles throughout George Town. Lim believes that the system will alleviate traffic congestion as well as improve visitors' experience by making places accessible without cars and thus support the state government's initiative in a cleaner, greener, safer and healthier Penang.{{cite news|url=http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/penang-kicks-off-ambitious-transport-revolution-with-rm9.2m-bike-sharing-sy |title=Penang kicks off ambitious transport revolution with RM9.2m bike-sharing system | Malaysia |newspaper=Malay Mail Online |date=2014-08-01 |access-date=2017-04-02}}

On 6 November 2011, the Penang state government under Lim's leadership managed to strengthen ties and forge friendship with the state of Victoria, Australia when the Governor of Victoria Alex Chernov made an official day-long visit to Penang with the invitation of the state government.{{cite web |url=http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/11/7/north/9851821&sec=north |title=CM: We want Aussies to rediscover Penang |website=thestar.com.my |access-date=2 February 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721072556/http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/11/7/north/9851821&sec=north |archive-date=21 July 2012 |url-status=dead}}

On 15 November 2011 Penang had hosted an official visit by the Governor General of Canada the Right Honourable David Johnston and the ex-Speaker of the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan for 2 days. Penang had managed to forge foreign relations with Canada and Japan, which consequently strengthened trade ties to lure foreign investors to Penang. Johnston's first visit to the state was welcomed by Lim and the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang Abdul Rahman Abbas. They walked around the Penang Heritage Trail together with his delegation.{{cite web |url=http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/11/15/north/9903266&sec=north |title=Canadian and Japanese VIPs visiting Penang today |website=thestar.com.my |access-date=2 February 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718113810/http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/11/15/north/9903266&sec=north |archive-date=18 July 2012 |url-status=dead}}[https://www.google.com.au/#hl=en&sugexp=frgbld&gs_nf=1&cp=42&gs_id=5w&xhr=t&q=governor+general+of+canada+visiting+penang&pf=p&sclient=psy-ab&oq=governor+general+of+canada+visiting+penang&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&gs_l=&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=37b244dfe41e981b&biw=1280&bih=709] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308071752/http://www.google.com.au/|date=8 March 2016}}

Several investment and business delegations have been led by Lim on state visits to Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore, Melbourne, Adelaide, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.{{cite web|url=http://kmlimguaneng.blogspot.com.au/2008/10/guan-eng-on-business-trip-to-abu-dhabi.html |title=Blog KM PP-ditaja oleh Homestay Pak Lang Temerloh: Guan Eng on Business Trip to Abu Dhabi & Dubai |website=Kmlimguaneng.blogspot.com.au |access-date=2017-04-02}}{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/notes/cm-lim-guan-eng/admin-penang-chief-minister-yab-lim-guan-eng-will-lead-a-investment-delegation-t/368952786461772 |title=[admin] Penang Chief Minister YAB Lim Guan Eng will lead a investment delegation to Tokyo, Japan |publisher=Facebook |date=2012-02-03 |access-date=2017-04-02}} Lim's official visit to Bangkok also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Penang and Bangkok, which enabled Penang to be a fast-growing world-class and international city. Prior to this state visit, Penang was looking to develop its tourism by seeking co-operation with Bangkok. Lim said that the state aspires to be achieve global city status by becoming a major economic hub, a top choice for investors, a desirable place for tourists and a habitat of choice for people who want to earn a sustainable living.{{cite web|url=http://www.investpenang.gov.my/portal/component/content/article/1-latest-news/1802-penang-and-bangkok-seal-a-friendly-deal.html |title=Penang and Bangkok seal a friendly deal |access-date=2012-04-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130729150241/http://www.investpenang.gov.my/portal/component/content/article/1-latest-news/1802-penang-and-bangkok-seal-a-friendly-deal.html |archive-date=29 July 2013 }}

File:Lim Guan Eng 2019.jpg

{{main|Seventh Mahathir cabinet|Second premiership of Mahathir Mohamad}}

After the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition (of which the DAP is part) emerged victorious in the 2018 Malaysian general election and formed the Federal Government, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad announced Lim Guan Eng's appointment as the Minister of Finance. He succeeded Najib Razak of BN. Lim is the first ethnic-Chinese Malaysian to hold the position since Tan Siew Sin of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) served from 1959 to 1974.{{cite news|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysias-new-finance-minister-was-jailed-twice-by-pm-mahathir|title=Malaysia's new finance minister Lim Guan Eng was jailed twice by PM Minister|newspaper=Straits Times|date=2018-05-13|access-date=2018-05-14}} In June 2018, he has received flak from politicians and Malaysians alike after issuing official statements in Chinese.{{Cite news |date=2018-06-25 |title=Malaysia Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng under fire for issuing official statement in Chinese |language=en |work=The Straits Times |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysia-finance-minister-lim-under-fire-for-issuing-official-statement-in-mandarin |access-date= |issn=0585-3923}}

In September 2018, Lim cancelled two contracts, worth approximately $2.795 billion, with China Petroleum Pipeline Bureau for oil and gas pipelines, stating that some of the funding from the Exim Bank of China had been misappropriated as part of the 1MDB scandal.{{cite news |title=Malaysia cancels China-backed pipeline projects |newspaper=The Financial Times |archive-url=https://archive.today/20180909174605/https://www.ft.com/content/06a71510-b24a-11e8-99ca-68cf89602132 |url=https://www.ft.com/content/06a71510-b24a-11e8-99ca-68cf89602132 |archive-date=9 September 2018 |date=9 September 2018 |first=Stefania |last=Palma |quote=Lim Guan Eng, Malaysian finance minister, said the cancelled projects were two oil and gas pipelines in mainland Malaysia and the island of Borneo that cost more than $1bn apiece, and a $795m pipeline linking the state of Malacca to a Petronas refinery and petrochemical plant in the state of Johor.}}

Lim has announced B40 (Bottom 40 per cent) National Protection Scheme, which is a free national health insurance scheme for the low income starting from 1 January 2019 at an initial cost of RM2 billion. The insurance scheme will improve access to health coverage and ease the burden of the low income families.{{cite web|url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-free-health-insurance-low-income-11069692?cid=FBcna|title=Malaysia announces free national health insurance for the low income

|website=Channel News Asia|date=2018-12-28|access-date=2018-12-29}}

Besides that, Lim under the Finance Ministry has announced that first-time home buyers will be fully exempted from stamp duty for properties up to RM1 million starting from 1 January 2019.{{cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2018/12/29/finance-ministry-stamp-duty-exemption-for-first-time-house-buyers-from-jan-1-2019/#xllSzu5peKc8W8cL.01|title=Finance Ministry: Stamp duty exemption for first-time house buyers from Jan 1, 2019|website= The Star|date=2018-12-29|access-date=2018-12-29}}

Lim was elected DAP National Chairman at the party's 17th National Congress, where he was also re-elected into the Central Executive Committee with the 8th highest share of votes, numbering 1,311 votes.{{Cite web |title=Gobind receives highest votes in DAP polls |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/03/20/gobind-receives-highest-votes-in-dap-polls |access-date=2022-03-20 |website=The Star |language=en}} He was replaced as secretary-general, a role which he had occupied for 17 years, by Anthony Loke Siew Fook.{{Cite web |date=Mar 20, 2022 |title=Anthony Loke dilantik Setiausaha Agung baharu DAP |url=https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2022/03/936454/anthony-loke-dilantik-setiausaha-agung-baharu-dap |access-date=Mar 20, 2022 |website=Berita Harian}}

In the lead-up to the party's 18th National Congress, Lim faced calls to withdraw from the leadership race owing to discontent among the party's grassroots over his leadership as well as his clashes with other party leaders.{{Cite web |date=14 March 2025 |title=DAP risks total fracture if factions prevail this weekend |url=https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/105865/dap-risks-total-fracture-if-factions-or-cliques-prevail-this-weekend-veteran-leader-says |access-date=14 March 2025 |website=The Vibes |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=16 February 2025 |title=Malaysia’s DAP election heats up, with Lim Guan Eng at risk of losing chairman’s post |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysias-dap-election-heats-up-with-lim-guan-eng-at-risk-of-losing-chairmans-post |access-date=14 March 2025 |work=The Straits Times |language=en |issn=0585-3923}} Anaylsts have also characterised the congress as a battle between the party's traditionalists, who would prefer to retain the party's Chinese character,{{Cite news |date=2021-04-13 |title=Malaysia's DAP debates whether to 'dilute its Chineseness' to be acceptable to Malay voters |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysias-dap-debates-whether-to-dilute-its-chineseness-to-be-acceptable-to-malay |access-date=2025-03-17 |work=The Straits Times |language=en |issn=0585-3923}} and the moderates, who are more open to cooperating with Malay-based parties.{{Cite web |last=Ganesan |first=Praba |date=13 March 2025 |title=DAP fears its own shadows heading to its party polls |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/opinion/2025/03/13/dap-fears-its-own-shadows-heading-to-its-party-polls/169432 |access-date=14 March 2025 |website=Malay Mail |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Kaur |first=Minderjeet |date=2021-04-14 |title=Analysts see crack in DAP widening |url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2021/04/14/analysts-see-crack-in-dap-widening/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=Free Malaysia Today {{!}} FMT |language=en}} Lim was narrowly re-elected to the Central Executive Committee, placing 26th out of 30, garnering 1,719 votes, and failed to be re-appointed the party's National Chairman. Instead, he was offered the role of Advisor. His former deputy Gobind Singh Deo replaced him. The Chinese language newspaper Sin Chew Daily characterised the election, which saw the failure of much of Lim's faction, including his sister Lim Hui Ying, to enter the CEC as the end of the preeminence of the "Lim dynasty" within the party.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-17 |title=The collapse of Lim Dynasty: Lim Guan Eng can only serve as party adviser - News |url=https://www.sinchew.com.my/news/20250317/mysinchew/6380052 |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=MySinchew 星洲网 Sin Chew Daily Malaysia Latest News and Headlines |language=zh-CN}}

In 2015, Lim allegedly used his position as then Penang chief minister to gain gratification for himself and his wife, Betty Chew Gek Cheng, by approving the application for conversion of agricultural land to a public housing zone in Balik Pulau to a company, Magnificent Emblem Sdn Bhd, owned by Phang Li Koon. In 2016, Lim allegedly used his position to obtain a plot of land and bungalow at 25, Jalan Pinhorn, from Phang for RM2.8 million, at below market value. The market price for the land and bungalow at that time was RM4.27 million. Lim knew Phang had a formal relationship with him. He allegedly carried out the offense at the bungalow in Jalan Pinhorn.{{Cite web |title=[EXCLUSIVE] Why the A-GC dropped LGE's case |date=6 September 2018 |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/exclusive/2018/09/408777/exclusive-why-gc-dropped-lges-case}}

On 29 June 2016, Lim is arrested at his office by MACC on the 28th floor of Komtar at 5.45pm, while Phang is arrested at 4.15pm at her sixth-floor office in Penang Garden. On 30 June 2016, Lim and Phang are charged with corruption in the George Town Sessions Court. The case is transferred to the High Court under Section 60 of the MACC Act, which allows the prosecution to transfer the case to the High Court tor hearing. Lim faces two charges - one under Section 23 of the MACC Act and the other under Section 165 of the Penal Code.

On 26 March 2018, the first day of trial, Lim and Phang plead not guilt to the amended charges read out before judge Hadhariah. First witness to be called is blogger Muhsin Lahteef, known as Mamu Parpu, who testifies about the report he lodged to MACC about the case on 18 March 2016. It is reported at least seven witnesses will be called that day, with 54 witnesses to be called in the next five weeks.

On 9 April 2018, the High Court postpones the trial to 21 May, following a defence application that Lim needs to prepare for the 14th General Election. On 9 May 2018, Pakatan Harapan wins GE14, which ends Barisan Nasional's 61-year grip on power. On 12 May 2018, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad names Lim as finance minister. On 13 May 2018, Mahathir says Lim can be officially appointed finance minister only if he clears his corruption case. Mahathir clarifies that Lim has merely been named finance minister, but has yet to take his oath of office.

On 3 September 2018, the court grants Lim and Phang a discharge amounting to an acquittal.

On 6 August 2020, Lim Guan Eng was accused of using his position as chief minister to ask Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (Zenith) senior director Zarul Ahmad Mohd Zulkifli for 10% of the profits which would be made from the roads and tunnel project. He was charged under Section 16(a)(A) of the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission Act.{{Cite web |title=Corruption |date=7 August 2020 |url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2020/08/07/guan-eng-pleads-not-guilty-to-asking-for-10-cut-from-tunnel-project/}} He pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court of asking for a 10% cut from the profits of the undersea tunnel project.

On 10 August 2020, Lim was charged with receiving a bribe worth RM3.3 million in relation to the Penang undersea tunnel project. This is the second charge that was also related to the same project.{{Cite web |date=10 August 2020 |title=Malaysia's former finance minister Lim Guan Eng charged with receiving RM3.3 million bribe, claims trial |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysias-former-finance-minister-lim-guan-eng-charged-with-receiving-bribe-claims |access-date=10 August 2020 |website=The Straits Times}}

On 5 August 2021, Ewe Swee Kheng, a property developer and one of the witnesses for the prosecution, allegedly fell to his death from his apartment.{{Cite web |title=Prominent developer in fatal fall from Pulau Tikus apartment |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2021/10/05/developer-in-fatal-fall-from-pulau-tikus-apartment |access-date=2022-04-29 |website=The Star |language=en}}{{Cite web |author=Staff Writers |date=2021-10-05 |title=Penang developer linked to undersea tunnel case falls to his death |url=https://www.malaysianow.com/news/2021/10/05/penang-developer-linked-to-undersea-tunnel-case-falls-to-his-death/ |access-date=2022-04-29 |website=MalaysiaNow |language=en-GB}}

On 4 August 2022, Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (Zenith) senior director Zarul Ahmad Mohd Zulkifli told the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court that he had lied to the press via media statements issued to reporters in 2018 after being remanded by MACC. He admitted that everything involving the undersea tunnel project was "done above the board" and the project involved no corruption during a cross-examination by Lim's lawyer Gobind Singh Deo. Zarul also informed the court that the company was forced to protect its interests by paying fees to people who claimed to represent the then Prime Minister Najib Razak.{{cite web |date=5 August 2022 |title=Guan Eng trial: Witness tells court he was prepared to 'bribe' ex-PM Najib in exchange for protection |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2022/08/05/guan-eng-trial-witness-tells-court-he-was-prepared-to-bribe-ex-pm-najib-in-exchange-for-protection/21260}}{{cite web |date=4 August 2022 |url=https://www.theedgemarkets.com/article/guan-engs-corruption-trial-witness-admits-lying-press#.Yu0EdfDD7rw.whatsapp |title=Guan Eng's corruption trial: Witness admits to lying to the press }}

In 2012, the Penang state UMNO Youth Chief accused the Penang state government of breaking the law in selling the Bayan Mutiara land to developer Ivory Property Group Berhad without subdividing the land. He also claimed that the state government sold the land without open tender and made no provision for mosques. However, Lim Guan Eng showed evidence that it has been sold via open tender and thus explained that the developer would only do the subdividing when it submits development plans for the 41.5-ha real estate project to the Penang Municipal Council. The developer had clarified that land for the mosque and school has been allocated and adhered to the town planning regulation after the new plans and subdivision of title has been submitted.{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-eng-denies-selling-off-bayan-mutiara-mosque-land/ |title=Main - Malaysia - Guan Eng denies selling off Bayan Mutiara mosque land @ Thu Mar 29 2012 |access-date=2012-04-12 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331170909/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-eng-denies-selling-off-bayan-mutiara-mosque-land |archive-date=31 March 2012 }}{{cite news |url=http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/frontpage/2012/04/05/spat-continues-over-bayan-mutiara/ |title=Spat continues over Bayan Mutiara |work=Free Malaysia Today |date=2012-04-05 |access-date=2017-04-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407175519/http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/frontpage/2012/04/05/spat-continues-over-bayan-mutiara/ |archive-date=7 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}

In 2013, his official trip to Xiamen and Hainan in China with a delegation including his wife were criticised by the Penang MCA for practicing double standard in his stand for bringing his spouse on an official trip. Penang MCA Secretary, Lau Chiek Tan said "Previously, Lim had criticised Barisan Nasional leaders for wasting public funds by bringing their families with them on official trips. We now see Pakatan Rakyat leaders doing the same with this trip to China."{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2013/11/16/controversy-abrewing-over-guan-engs-trip-to-xiamen/ |title=Controversy a-brewing over Guan Eng's trip to Xiamen - Nation | The Star Online |website=Thestar.com.my |date=2013-11-16 |access-date=2017-04-02}}

In 2014, he was criticized for swapping his two-month-old Toyota Camry official car for a new Mercedes-Benz S300L. Netizens and NGOs commented that he did not practise what he preached because in 2008 he had condemned the Terengganu State Government for buying a fleet of Mercedes-Benz cars as its official cars. The Barisan Nasional MP for Kota Belud, Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan, accused Lim of being "hypocritical". Lim defended his decision, saying that he had bought the car at a discounted price.[http://sayslive.com.my/my/news/lim-guan-eng-criticised-for-being-hypocrite-after-buying-new-mercedes-benz-s300l]{{dead link|date=April 2017}}

On 20 September 2011, Lim Guan Eng participated in an interview conducted by Australian Broadcasting Corporation where he was reported by the Malaysian news agency, Bernama, to have disparaged the security of the state of Johor.{{cite web|url=http://www.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne%2BNews/Malaysia/Story/A1Story20110928-301910.html |title=Chief Minister criticised over disparaging remarks about Johor |website=Asiaone.com |date=2011-09-28 |access-date=2017-04-02}} Lim Guan Eng insisted he never mentioned Johor, and demanded that Bernama retract their story and issue a formal apology, or face a lawsuit.{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-eng-threatens-to-sue-bernama-over-johor-remarks |title=Malaysia - Guan Eng threatens to sue Bernama over Johor remarks @ Sun Sep 25 2011 |access-date=2011-10-21 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111028170354/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-eng-threatens-to-sue-bernama-over-johor-remarks |archive-date=28 October 2011 }} However, a recording was later revealed by TV3, showing clear evidence of Lim Guan Eng proclaiming that Singaporeans who are in Johor are "likely to be kidnapped". The recording of Lim Guan Eng's remark was made in Singapore. This led Lim Guan Eng to issue a formal apology to the Sultan of Johor.[http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/9/30/nation/20110930134144&sec=nation#13191674885171&if_height=538] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120102065223/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2011%2F9%2F30%2Fnation%2F20110930134144&sec=nation|date=2 January 2012}}

Lim was involved in a controversy regarding the establishment of the Penang Voluntary Patrol Unit (PPS) which was declared illegal by Ministry of Home Affairs.{{cite web |url=http://www.malaysia-today.net/pps-diisytihar-pertubuhan-haram-semua-akaun-aset-diserah-jabatan-insolvensi/ |title=PPS diisytihar pertubuhan haram, semua akaun, aset diserah Jabatan Insolvensi |publisher=Malaysia Today |date=2014-11-04 |access-date=2017-04-02 |archive-date=13 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161013054349/http://www.malaysia-today.net/pps-diisytihar-pertubuhan-haram-semua-akaun-aset-diserah-jabatan-insolvensi/ |url-status=dead }} He however, declared it a legal entity and challenged Khalid Abu Bakar, who was then Malaysia's Inspector-general of police to a debate on the legitimacy of the PPS.[http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/will-cops-come-after-me-now-asks-guan-eng-over-pps-arrests#sthash.hIdYDYM5.dpuf] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108152315/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/will-cops-come-after-me-now-asks-guan-eng-over-pps-arrests|date=8 November 2014}}{{cite news |url=http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2014/08/29/guan-eng-declares-pps-a-legal-body/ |title=Guan Eng declares PPS a legal body |work=Free Malaysia Today |date=2014-08-29 |access-date=2017-04-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108152551/http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2014/08/29/guan-eng-declares-pps-a-legal-body/ |archive-date=8 November 2014 |url-status=dead }} He then challenged the Home Ministry's declaration in court.{{cite web |url=http://www.malaysiandigest.com/news/526546-penang-to-challenge-home-ministry-s-declaration-on-pps-guan-eng.html |title=Penang To Challenge Home Ministry's Declaration On PPS: Guan Eng |website=Malaysiandigest.com |date=2014-11-05 |access-date=2017-04-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108152440/http://www.malaysiandigest.com/news/526546-penang-to-challenge-home-ministry-s-declaration-on-pps-guan-eng.html |archive-date=8 November 2014 |url-status=usurped }} His case however, was thrown out of court by the High Court.{{cite news|title=Court bins Penang government's bid to declare volunteer unit legal|url=http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/court-bins-penang-governments-bid-to-declare-volunteer-unit-legal|access-date=11 November 2015|newspaper=The Malay Mail|date=8 October 2015}} However, on 28 March 2017, the Court of Appeal ruled that the Penang Voluntary Patrol Unit (PPS) is a legal organisation established by the Penang state government.{{cite news|title=Appeals Court declares Penang's PPS lawfully established|url=http://www.nst.com.my/news/2017/03/225073/appeals-court-declares-penangs-pps-lawfully-established|newspaper=New Straits Times|date=8 October 2015}}

On 21 June 2019, Lim claims that Sarawak will go bankrupt in three years' time if it continues to be ruled by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition. He stated that Sarawak's reserves of RM30 billion would be depleted within three years, considering the state's annual budget of RM11 billion. Lim also expressed concerns that Sarawak might face a situation similar to Kelantan, where he claimed they struggled to cover the salaries of their civil servants due to ineffective administration.{{Cite web |last=Ling |first=Sharon |date=2019-06-21 |title=Sarawak will go bankrupt if it continues to be ruled by GPS, says Guan Eng |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2019/06/21/sarawak-will-go-bankrupt-if-it-continues-to-be-ruled-by-gps-says-lim |access-date= |website=The Star |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=editorLC |date=2019-06-22 |title=Guan Eng: Sarawak will go bankrupt within three years under GPS |url=https://dayakdaily.com/https-youtu-be-zq07kctgdkw/ |access-date= |website=DayakDaily |language=en-GB}}

The statement by him has sparked controversy.{{Cite web |date=2019-06-24 |title=Guan Eng unfit for his post, says Nancy after bankrupt remark |url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2019/06/24/guan-eng-unfit-for-his-post-says-nancy-after-bankrupt-remark/ |website=Free Malaysia Today}} The Sarawak government, through its Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, issued a statement expressing that Lim's remarks not only contain misinformation but also carry political motivations.{{Cite web |date=2019-06-23 |title=Sarawak slams Guan Eng over 'misleading' statement that the state will go bust |url=https://theedgemalaysia.com/article/sarawak-slams-guan-eng-over-misleading-statement-state-will-go-bust |access-date= |website=The Edge Malaysia}} Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari said the statement pointed out that these assumptions were made without taking into account Sarawak's revenue from various sources, including oil and gas, and the exemplary financial management it has demonstrated.{{Cite web |last=Bernama |date=2019-06-22 |title=S'wak won't go bankrupt in three years - Abang Jo |url=https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/480768 |access-date= |website=Malaysiakini}}{{Cite web |date=2019-06-22 |title='Sarawak won't go bankrupt in 3 years' |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2019/06/498308/sarawak-wont-go-bankrupt-3-years |website=New Straits Times}} Movement for Change, Sarawak (MoCS) has described Lim's statement as ‘an insult to Sarawak and Sarawakians’.{{Cite web |date=2019-06-25 |title='Sarawak bankrupt' statement an insult to Sarawakians — MoCS |url=https://www.theborneopost.com/2019/06/25/sarawak-bankrupt-statement-an-insult-to-sarawakians-mocs/ |access-date= |website=Borneo Post Online |language=en-US}}

As a result of the collaboration between Pakatan Harapan and GPS after the 2022 general election, Lim publicly apologized for his previous remarks that had harmed the reputation of Abang Johari and the Sarawak government.{{Cite web |date=2022-11-24 |title=Lim Guan Eng finally apologises to Sarawak govt and its people |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2022/11/854453/lim-guan-eng-finally-apologises-sarawak-govt-and-its-people |website=New Straits Times}}{{Cite web |last=Chong |first=Debra |date=2022-11-24 |title=Guan Eng says sorry to Sarawak and state govt, calls for fresh start in Malaysia's best interests |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2022/11/24/guan-eng-says-sorry-to-sarawak-and-state-govt-calls-for-fresh-start-in-malaysias-best-interests/41662 |access-date= |website=Malay Mail |language=en}}

{{main|Green Wave (Malaysia)}}

On 7 July 2023, Lim warned Penang voters not to allow the "green wave" to take hold in the state. He said that the "green wave" would have resulted in the destruction of Buddhist temples and the restriction of certain practices for non-Muslims.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-08 |title='Temples will be destroyed, so stop the Mongols': Guan Eng warns Penangites against 'green wave' |url=https://www.malaysianow.com/news/2023/07/08/temples-will-be-destroyed-so-stop-the-mongols-guan-eng-warns-penangites-against-green-wave |access-date= |website=MalaysiaNow |language=en}}

He has been accused by opposition leaders of fearmongering Penang voters against the Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) by intentionally raising the 3R issues (Rulers, race, religion).{{Cite web |last=Loon |first=Yee |date=2023-07-10 |title=Opposition accused DAP Chairman Lim Guan Eng of fearmongering voters against 'green wave' |url=https://www.theonlinecitizen.com/2023/07/10/opposition-accused-dap-chairman-lim-guan-eng-of-fearmongering-voters-against-green-wave/ |access-date=2023-10-09 |website=The Online Citizen Asia |language=en-GB}} Pas secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan said the party strongly condemned the extreme provocation and incitement of extraordinary hatred by Lim.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-09 |title=Pas hits back at Guan Eng over 'green wave will destroy temples' remark |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/politics/2023/07/929000/pas-hits-back-guan-eng-over-green-wave-will-destroy-temples-remark%C2%A0 |website=New Straits Times}} Manjoi assemblyman Mohd Hafez Sabri wants the police to investigate Lim for his remarks.{{Cite web |last=Bunyan |first=John |date=2023-07-10 |title=Perak PAS rep accuses Guan Eng of inciting disharmony, demands police action over 'green wave' remarks |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2023/07/10/perak-pas-rep-accuses-guan-eng-of-inciting-disharmony-demands-police-action-over-green-wave-remarks/78881 |access-date= |website=Malay Mail |language=en}}

Kedah police chief Fisol Salleh said a total 23 police reports have been lodged related to Lim's statement in the state.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-10 |title=Police confirm 23 reports lodged in Kedah against Lim Guan Eng's statement |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/07/929560/police-confirm-23-reports-lodged-kedah-against-lim-guan-engs-statement |website=New Straits Times}} Bukit Aman also said investigations into a speech made Lim have started.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-09 |title=Police open investigation against Lim Guan Eng |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/07/929196/police-open-investigation-against-lim-guan-eng |website=New Straits Times}}{{Cite web |date=2023-07-09 |title=Bukit Aman confirms probe into Lim Guan Eng's speech |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/07/09/bukit-aman-confirms-probe-into-lim-guan-eng039s-speech |access-date= |website=The Star |language=en}} Lim said he was ready to cooperate with the authorities if asked to have his statement recorded.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-10 |title=Guan Eng says will cooperate with police in 3R probe against him |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/07/929476/guan-eng-says-will-cooperate-police-3r-probe-against-him |website=New Straits Times}} On 14 July, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Razarudin Husain said the police have recorded statements from Lim for his alleged remarks on the 3R issue.{{Cite web |last=RAMLI |first=MUHAMMAD AFHAM |date=2023-07-14 |title=3R: Police record Guan Eng, Abdul Hadi's statements - IGP |url=https://www.sinardaily.my/article/201281/malaysia/national/3r-police-record-guan-eng-abdul-hadis-statements---igp |access-date= |website=Sinar Daily |language=en}}

On 14 December 2011, Lim won a second defamation suit against Malay daily Utusan Malaysia, which was ordered by the Penang High Court to pay a total of RM200,000 worth of damages and a cost of RM25,000 to him. Utusan Malaysia had allegedly published a defamatory news article about Lim entitled "Kebiadapan Guan Eng" (Guan Eng's Arrogance) which had defamed his political career, and subsequently pictured him and DAP as anti-Malay and anti-Muslim.{{cite web |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2011%2F12%2F14%2Fnation%2F20111214165913&sec=nation |title=Guan Eng wins suit against Utusan |website=thestar.com.my |access-date=14 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107195050/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2011%2F12%2F14%2Fnation%2F20111214165913&sec=nation |archive-date=7 January 2012 |url-status=dead}}

On 22 June 2012, Lim won a defamation suit against Utusan Malaysia, which was ordered by High Court to pay a total of RM200,000 worth of damages and RM20,000 in costs to the former. The Malay daily had been found guilty by the court of defaming Lim in a published news article headlined "Tiada Lagi DEB" (No More NEP), which said that Lim would abolish the New Economic Policy.{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-eng-wins-second-defamation-suit-against-utusan/ |title=Main - Malaysia - Guan Eng wins second defamation suit against Utusan @ Fri Jun 22 2012 |access-date=2012-06-25 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625111851/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-eng-wins-second-defamation-suit-against-utusan/ |archive-date=25 June 2012 }}

In December 2013 an article quoting Jimmy Lim entitled "Guan Eng has failed, says NGO", about what he characterised as the destruction of Malaysian heritage in developments schemes carried out under the government of Lim Guan Eng, was published on the Malaysian online news portal Free Malaysia Today. Lim Guan Eng then sued Jimmy Lim as well as other parties alleging defamation, and in August 2013 received a decision at the George Town High Court in his favour ordering the defendants to pay RM300,000 in damages and RM30,000 in legal costs. This decision, however, was overturned in 2016 on appeal to the Malaysian Court of Appeal, on the grounds that the article taken as a whole was not defamatory. Judge Hamid Sultan Abu Backer, the chair of the court, described the article as "written in a temperate tone".{{cite news |last1=Reduan |first1=Hidir |title=Court quashes RM300k award for Guan Eng over defamation suit |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/2016/05/147330/court-quashes-rm300k-award-guan-eng-over-defamation-suit |access-date=14 July 2022 |work=New Straits Times |date=23 May 2016}}

On 30 January 2015, he, with two news portals, Malaysiakini and The Malaysian Insider were sued by Penang UMNO secretary, Datuk Musa Sheikh Fadzir, Maison Height Sdn Bhd and Penang Barisan Nasional secretary Datuk Omar Faudzar{{cite news|url=http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/penang-umno-leaders-and-housing-developer-sue-lim-guan-eng-and-news-portals#sthash.UwRloK8l.dpuf |title=Penang Umno leaders and housing developer sue Guan Eng and news portals | Malaysia |newspaper=Malay Mail Online |access-date=2017-04-02}} for making defamatory article on the alleged sale of Malay lands for profit. In the statement of claim, the plaintiffs referred to an article written by Lim titled "Pembohongan Umno" (Umno's lies), which was published in The Malaysian Insider on 27 November 2014, and another article titled "Stop spreading lies about Penang government, Guan Eng tells Umno"{{cite web|url=http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v8/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=1118589 |title=Lim Guan Eng, Malaysian Insider, MalaysiaKini Sued |website=Bernama.com |access-date=2017-04-02}} which was also published in the same news portal on 27 November. The plaintiffs stated that Lim, Mkini and Gan had caused the publication of another article "Umno made profits by selling Malay Kampungs", containing defamatory words in Malaysiakini.{{cite web|url=http://www.nst.com.my/node/77150 |title=Guan Eng sued over Balik Pulau land acquisition issue | New Straits Times | Malaysia General Business Sports and Lifestyle News |website=Nst.com.my |date=2015-03-19 |access-date=2017-04-02}}{{cite web|url=http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1359940 |title=Umno division chiefs sue Lim Guan Eng, news portals |website=Thesundaily.my |access-date=2017-04-02}}{{cite news|url=http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/penang-umno-leaders-and-housing-developer-sue-lim-guan-eng-and-news-portals |title=Penang Umno leaders and housing developer sue Guan Eng and news portals | Malaysia |newspaper=Malay Mail Online |access-date=2017-04-02}}

The plaintiffs filed a notice of discontinuance on 1 April 2016.{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/04/05/two-penang-umno-leaders-developer-drop-action-against-guan-eng/ |title=Penang Umno leaders, developer drop legal action against Guan Eng - Nation | The Star Online |website=Thestar.com.my |date=2016-04-05 |access-date=2017-04-02}}

On 26 March 2015, Lim won a defamation suit against Perkasa, New Straits Times and Utusan Malaysia concerning an article over a dinner which Lim attended in Singapore in 2011. The latter were ordered by the High Court to pay RM550,000 in damages. Justice Nor Bee Ariffin ordered Perkasa chief Datuk Ibrahim Ali, information chief Ruslan Kassim and Perkasa to pay RM150,000; New Straits Times former group editor Datuk Syed Nazri Syed Harun and NSTP RM200,000 and Utusan Melayu group editor-in-chief Datuk Abdul Aziz Ishak and Utusan Melayu RM200,000. Justice Nor Bee Ariffin said that Syed Nazri, NSTP, Abdul Aziz and Utusan Melayu failed to practice responsible journalism.{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2015/03/26/lim-guan-eng-awarded-rm550000-in-defamation-suit-against-perkasa/ |title=Lim Guan Eng wins suit against Perkasa - Nation | The Star Online |website=Thestar.com.my |date=2015-03-26 |access-date=2017-04-02}}{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-engs-wins-suit-against-umno-papers-perkasa-leader |title=Guan Eng wins suit against Umno papers, Perkasa leader - the Malaysian Insider |access-date=2015-03-26 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150327135336/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-engs-wins-suit-against-umno-papers-perkasa-leader |archive-date=27 March 2015 }}

On 3 July 2015, he lost a lawsuit{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/penang-opposition-leader-sues-guan-eng-for-calling-her-racist-liar |title=Penang opposition leader sues Guan Eng for calling her 'racist', 'liar' - the Malaysian Insider |access-date=2014-11-08 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108152359/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/penang-opposition-leader-sues-guan-eng-for-calling-her-racist-liar |archive-date= 8 November 2014 }}{{cite news|url=http://www.themalaysiantimes.com.my/apologise-or-face-legal-action-jahara-tells-dap-sec-gen/ |title=Apologise or face legal action, Jahara tells DAP sec-gen |newspaper=The Malaysian Times |date=2013-12-23 |access-date=2017-04-02}} brought by the state opposition leader, Datuk Jahara Hamid. Lim had allegedly called Datuk Jahara a "racist grandmother" in December 2013.{{cite web|url=http://www.malaysia-today.net/dap-sexism-and-selective-memory/ |title=DAP, sexism and selective memory |publisher=Malaysia Today |date=2014-10-04 |access-date=2017-04-02}} Lim was ordered to pay RM 500,000 in damages at 5% interest per annum and RM 40,000 in legal costs. He was also ordered to retract the statement.[http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-eng-loses-racist-grandmother-suit-to-file-appeal#sthash.KZTuSymP.dpuf] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704065200/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/guan-eng-loses-racist-grandmother-suit-to-file-appeal|date=4 July 2015}} The judicial commissioner said that he had been unprofessional (as a chief minister) to resort to name calling an opposition leader and had brought disrepute to both the state assembly and the office of Chief Minister.{{cite news |url=http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2015/07/03/racist-grandmother-remark-costs-guan-eng-rm500k/ |title='Racist grandmother' remark costs Guan Eng RM500k |work=Free Malaysia Today |date=2015-07-03 |access-date=2017-04-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704135741/http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2015/07/03/racist-grandmother-remark-costs-guan-eng-rm500k/ |archive-date=4 July 2015 |url-status=dead }} His sexist statement was also condemned by the chairperson of the women's wing of the DAP, Chong Eng;{{cite web|url=http://www.bnbbc.my/?p=4105 |title=BNBBC :: Portal Majlis Ahli Parlimen BN - Exco negeri turut tegur Guan Eng isu 'nenek rasis' |website=Bnbbc.my |date=2013-12-12 |access-date=2017-04-02}} Zuraida Kamaruddin, chairperson of the women's wing of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR);{{cite web|url=http://web6.bernama.com/bernama/v3/bm/news_lite.php?id%3D1002891 |title=Ketua Wanita PKR Selar Guan Eng Berhubung Isu Nenek Rasis :: Bernama.com |access-date=2014-11-08 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108152604/http://web6.bernama.com/bernama/v3/bm/news_lite.php?id=1002891 |archive-date= 8 November 2014 }} and several female Senators.{{cite web|url=http://news.abnxcess.com/bm/2013/12/senator-selar-lim-guan-eng-kerana-hina-wanita/ |title='Nenek Rasis': Senator selar Lim Guan Eng kerana hina wanita ABN News | BM |access-date=2014-11-08 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108151714/http://news.abnxcess.com/bm/2013/12/senator-selar-lim-guan-eng-kerana-hina-wanita/ |archive-date= 8 November 2014 }}

In August 2017, Lim filed a suit against New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Bhd (NSTP) for running an article titled "Political Intervention was real, says PAS", which accused him of interfering in Islamic affairs. On 2 November 2018, the High Court ordered NSTP to pay damages of RM200,000 to Lim and directed NSTP to publish an unconditional and unreserved apology admitting that the article was defamatory to him.{{Cite web|url=https://www.msn.com/en-my/news/national/nstp-to-apologise-to-guan-eng-over-fatwa-article/ar-BBPeYtp|title=NSTP to apologise to Guan Eng over fatwa article|website=www.msn.com|language=en-MY|access-date=2018-11-03}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/450101|title=Guan Eng's suit against NST settled|date=2018-11-02|work=Malaysiakini|access-date=2018-11-03|language=en-GB}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/crime-courts/2018/11/427492/guan-eng-settles-defamation-lawsuit-against-nstp|title=Guan Eng settles defamation lawsuit against NSTP|date=2 November 2018 }}

On 19 September 2018, a consent judgment was reached before the High Court with the publisher of the New Straits Times and Berita Harian newspapers agreeing to publish an apology and pay Lim RM130,000 in damages over three defamatory articles published in January 2018, quoting Teng Chang Yeow who accused Lim of lying about Penang government's payments to the contractors of the undersea tunnel and three main roads project.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2018/09/19/publisher-to-pay-guan-eng-rm130000-over-undersea-tunnel-report/|title=Publisher to pay Guan Eng RM130,000 over undersea tunnel report|work=Free Malaysia Today|access-date=2018-11-03|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.msn.com/en-my/news/national/publisher-to-pay-guan-eng-rm130000-over-undersea-tunnel-report/ar-BBNx87z|title=Publisher to pay Guan Eng RM130,000 over undersea tunnel report|website=www.msn.com|language=en-MY|access-date=2018-11-03}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2018/09/412876/nst-ordered-pay-rm130000-guan-eng|title=NST ordered to pay RM130,0NST ordered to pay RM130,000 to Guan Eng00 to Guan Eng|date=19 September 2018 }}

• {{flag|Malaysia}} :
• 50px Recipient of the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong Installation Medal (2024)

{{Reflist}}

1. {{note|voted_out}}{{note label|voted_out|1|a}} – [https://web.archive.org/web/20051227123015/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2005%2F12%2F19%2Fnation%2F12907765&sec=nation "Guan Eng and wife voted out of Malacca DAP committee"].
2. {{note|conspiracy}} – Beh [http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/44731 "Mr and Mrs Lim's defeat a 'conspiracy'"].
3. {{note|comeback}} – [https://web.archive.org/web/20080309150436/http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Sunday/National/2182168/Article/index_html "Lim Guan Eng Reassures Penang"].

• Air Putih (Penang state constituency)
• Kota Melaka (federal constituency)
• Bagan (federal constituency)
• Pakatan Rakyat
• Pakatan Harapan

{{commons category|Lim Guan Eng}}

{{wikiquote|Lim Guan Eng}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20051227123015/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2005%2F12%2F19%2Fnation%2F12907765&sec=nation "Guan Eng and wife voted out of Malacca DAP committee"]. (19 December 2005). The Star.
• Beh, Lih Yi (19 December 2005). [http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/44731 "Mr and Mrs Lim's defeat a 'conspiracy'"]. Malaysiakini.
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20061027025649/http://web.amnesty.org/library/Index/ENGASA280031997?open&of=ENG-MYS "The trial of opposition parliamentarian Lim Guan Eng: an update"]. (1 March 1997). Amnesty International.
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20061027031136/http://web.amnesty.org/library/Index/ENGASA280081999?open&of=ENG-MYS "Lim Guan Eng released but his civil rights remain curtailed"]. (25 August 1999). Amnesty International.
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20080303021203/http://www.dapmalaysia.org/newenglish/Biodata%20SG.htm Lim Guan Eng Biodata]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20090213212954/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F2%2F24%2Ffocus%2F20080224080850&sec=focus TheStar Article]

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{{Malaysia 15th FedRep}}

{{Chief Ministers of Penang}}

{{Seventh Mahathir cabinet}}

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{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Lim, Guan Eng}}

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