GEORGE TOWN, May 10 — Legislators are leaders and must set an exemplary behaviour at all times, the Yang Di-Pertua Negri of Penang Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas said today.

The Penang governor also reminded lawmakers that they must not succumb to emotions but debate motions intellectually and ethically.

"They must debate each topic in an intellectual manner and not emotionally," he said in his official speech at the opening of the first sitting of the fourth term of the Penang Legislative Assembly.

He also called on all legislators to cooperate with the state administration led by Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng during this new term.

Abdul Rahman admitted there might not be 100 per cent agreement between all parties when it comes to politics.

"A check and balance system is needed to ensure the people's interests are protected," he said.

He told them to put aside personal issues and to continue with the existing system based on trust.

"To the elected representatives, you must watch your behaviour and what you say whether inside or outside the House because you are leaders and you are supposed to lead by example," he said.

Earlier, Abdul Rahman said the state recorded a total investment of RM6.7 billion from 107 projects for 2015.

He also touched on the prolonged dry spell, noting that the recorded rainfall for April was only 30 per cent of the annual average rainfall.

He said Penang Water Supply Corporation's aggressive and proactive measures were necessary to prevent water rationing that could lead to losses and affect the people, businesses and investors.

The sitting was adjourned and will resume on Friday.