Kuala Lampur, March 4 -- As a twice-yearly visitor to Penang, I nevertheless read with concern the report that the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has implemented a 50 per cent increase in parking fees, effective this month.

Ostensibly it's a strategy to reduce traffic congestion in high-demand areas (like Lebuh Chulia, Lebuh Pasar, etc).

Mayor A. Rajendran says he hopes this tactic will discourage prolonged parking, promote turnover, and complement plans for time limits in busy zones.

Whilst I can sympathise with the intentions, I (like many Malaysians and, no doubt, Penangites) have some concerns.

The 50 per cent hike - raising rates from RM0.40 to RM0.60 for 30 minutes, RM0.80 to RM1.20 per hour, and RM6 to RM9 per day - is treme...