Yesterday, Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng apologised for a lack of action to help Sungai Lembu villagers despite numerous complaints about a polluting and illegal carbon filter factory in their backyard. The apology revealed Pakatan-led Penang state government’s policy of not demolishing or closing down illegal structures or businesses that existed before it took over in 2008. This followed from the arrest of Penang State Exco member, by the Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission. Caught in the political tussle between supports and detractors of the state government was the state assemblywoman who had lobbied on behalf of villagers. Today we get her side of the story.