Lim orders revocation of development order
By K.Kasturi Dewi, The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has directed the immediate revocation of a development order issued to Nusmetro Ventures (P) Sdn Bhd allowing for the construction of an apartment project in Kampung Buah Pala.
Lim said yesterday he would use his authority as the Chief Minister to direct the Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) immediately revoke the order.
“This means that even though they (Nusmetro) can come on Aug 3 and demolish the houses, they cannot build them,” he said after meeting with representatives of the 24 families from the village, popularly known as the High Chaparral at his office in Komtar Friday.
The decision to revoke the development order meant the state has rescinded on its approval given to the developer.
The dispute has dragged on for more than a month as residents who are technically squatters, refused to budge despite various court rulings in the favor of both the landowner (the state civil service officers cooperative) and the developer.
Lim admitted the decision would result in the state being sued but “we will make sure it will be a very, very long suit”.
He added another suggestion was for the state to explore the possibility of the developer surrendering a portion of the land to allow residents to continue living there.
“This will allow for a solution where the residents and land owner, or the developer as decided by the Federal Court, can co-exist together. If they insist on demolishing the houses without some sort of solution for the residents, then everyone loses out,” he said.
In an immediate reaction, Nusmetro director Gary Ho said the company would still abide by the Federal Court and the Penang High Court earlier decisions which allowed them to commence earthworks by Aug 3.
