GEORGE TOWN: The Penang state government has proposed to the federal government for a public inquiry be established to investigate the dragon boat incident on Sunday where six people perished.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the state government is willing to work with the federal government and render any assistance necessary to determine what led of the tragedy.

"We wish to express our willingness to cooperate fully with the federal government on this matter.

"We are also willing to work for the mutual benefit not only in the fields of education but other aspects as well," Lim said at a press conference.

Earlier, Lim expressed the state government's appreciation to Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin for his visit to the site and also the families of the victims on Tuesday.

The six who perished during a dragon boat training session off the Gat Lebuh Macallum waters are teacher Chin Aik Siang, 28, students Jason Ch'ng, 17, Goh Yi Zhang, 17, Brendon Yeoh, 17, Cheah Zi Jun, 17 and Wan Yong Xiang, 16.