Kedah may wait for federal government change to submit Penang lease claim

The Kedah state government is contemplating a strategic delay in submitting its complete lease payment claim documents to the federal government. This move, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md. Nor, is being considered as an option if the current federal administration continues to ignore the state's demands.

Sanusi indicated that the state has been pursuing this lease payment issue for approximately six years, but has yet to receive a satisfactory response. He suggested that the state might hold onto the comprehensive study documents, prepared by historians and legal experts, until a more receptive federal government is in place. The final report of this study was presented to state executive council members, assemblymen, and relevant parliament members on April 15, 2025. A legal team has also been appointed to review appropriate legal actions.

During a question-and-answer session at the Kedah State Legislative Assembly, Sanusi addressed concerns about the federal government's 'stubbornness' in paying the claim. He confirmed that the state would continue its efforts through inter-governmental negotiations, document submission, and legal action if necessary. He emphasized the state's commitment to defending Kedah's rights and interests through legal, orderly, and constitutional channels.

Responding to a supplementary question about whether the claim was discussed during the previous Perikatan Nasional federal government's tenure, Sanusi mentioned raising the issue with the then-Prime Minister. However, he noted that the documents were not yet complete at that time. He added that the claim should be evaluated based on law, irrespective of who holds federal office, though he hinted at pausing submission if the current Prime Minister appears to prioritize politics over law.

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Unda