IPOH: The state government will not issue 999-year land titles or permanent titles to residents of new villages as it contravenes the Federal Constitution, Perak Menteri Besar Ahmad Faizal Azumu said.
He said the 53rd National Land Council (NLC) on April 25, 1997, stated that the lease period or leasehold for the new villages should be at least 60 years but not exceeding 99 years.
“The decision binds all states in Peninsular Malaysia as provided under Article 91 (5) of the Federal Constitution,” Faizal said in his winding-up speech at the 14th state legislative assembly today.
“Therefore, the proposal to grant 999-year ownership or permanent titles to residents of new villages is contrary to the constitution.
“Although there are views that there is leeway on this provision involving special circumstances, this is not provided in the National Land Code.
“Any amendment must be referred to the NLC so that the practice does not affect the basis of uniformity in accordance with Article 76(4) of the Federation and mutually agreed pursuant to Article 91(5) of the Federal Constitution.”
Faizal stressed that the state government’s land titles were not transferable to individuals, especially if it involved intrusion activities.
But, he added that the state government had the discretion to issue Temporary Occupational Licences (TOL).
“Such action will affect the state government land bank. Land is a valuable asset. If the state government gives ownership rights to those who infringe on government land, it will open more space or floodgate to more intrusion activities.
“This will have a long-term impact on the government’s plans for development, housing and so forth in the future,” he added.
On a separate note, Faizal said he would lead a special task force to improve the state’s agricultural sector and farming communities.