PENANG, May 23 (Bernama) -- Penang has been listed as the ninth "most liveable city for expatriates" in Asia, Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon told the State Legislative Assembly today.

He said the ranking was made based on an annual study conducted by consulting agency Employment Condition Abroad Limited on 254 cities in Asia.

Among the aspects taken into account in the study were the infrastructure, health services, security, political situation, housing, air quality and weather, he said.

Five years ago, Penang ranked 12th, he said refuting an allegation made by Phee Boon Poh (DAP-Sungai Puyu) during the debate on the motion of thanks to the Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas for opening the state assembly sitting on Monday.

Phee had alleged that many expatriates were uncomfortable being in the state because of the lack of facilities.

"The Honourable from Sungai Puyu has always blown up small issues to criticise the government. The ranking was not made by me but based on a study by an international institution among expatriates living in Asia," Dr Koh said.

He said the state government would strive to overcome all weaknesses so that Penang would come out tops in the future. Presently, Singapore ranks first.

He also said that because of the good response from expatriates, five international schools had been opened in the state.

Dr Koh also denied another allegation that several multinational companies had left Penang.

Dell, for example, had strengthened its presence in the state by raising its investment and workforce over the past four years but because of the need for more workers and bigger space, the company had opened a second plant in Cyberjaya, he said.