At the Parliament lobby, Lim Lip Eng (DAP-Segambut) said the cost of the computers was exorbitant and handed out price lists from computer shops to prove his point.

”The 80GB hard disk has been phased out early this year. For twice the capacity, you can get a 160GB hard disk at RM150.

”The keyboard and mouse are not branded and are made in China. A Microsoft combo pack of keyboard and mouse costs only RM55,” he said.

Lim said Parliament could have instead invested in a simple laptop for MPs, which would only cost RM2,000 per unit.

Chong Chieng Jen (DAP-Bandar Kuching) said it boiled down to whether a proper tender was called for the purchase, or if the procurement was done through direct negotiations without proper comparison of prices.