While Lim Guan Eng has stated that he consulted state government officers on the tunnel project’s legality, questions remain about whether this consultation was sufficient and comprehensive. Critics argue that despite these actions, concerns over the approval process and transparency have persisted, indicating potential gaps in legal oversight.
Large infrastructure projects require not only legal checks but also rigorous public engagement and clear communication about the project's impact and approval status. Doubts about these aspects raise the possibility that legality alone does not guarantee procedural fairness or community acceptance.
Additionally, skeptics note that even with legal consultations, the process must be documented clearly to ensure accountability. Without transparent records of such consultations, stakeholders including the public and judiciary may doubt whether all legal requirements and due processes were fully observed.
This caution underscores the need for robust governance frameworks beyond informal consultations. Close scrutiny is necessary to prevent political decisions from overriding statutory obligations or sidelining affected communities’ voices.