Perak MB reprimands Aziz Bari over new village land title issue

Ahmad Faizal Azumu says while he welcomes views of fellow exco, such issues should have been discussed behind closed doors.

(FMT) – Perak Menteri Besar Ahmad Faizal Azumu today expressed disappointment in a state executive councillor for publicly contradicting the state government’s stand on land issues.

He said Dr Abdul Aziz Bari, the state education, technology, science and environment committee chairman, should have given his opinion during the exco meeting, instead of going to the media.

The issue revolved around giving 999-year land titles to residents of new villages.

Faizal had said that the state government would not issue 999-year land titles as this was contrary to the Federal Constitution and that the lease period for new villages was at least 60 years, but not exceeding 99 years.

The menteri besar said he welcomed Aziz’s views but this should have been expressed behind closed doors.

“I feel there must be an improvement in the discipline of members of the state executive council. They should know when to express their views. Not everything can be said at will.

“However, I feel this is a new experience for many, including me.

“Let us not show our differences in public. That’s not good,” he told reporters after attending the Aidiladha sacrificial ritual at Masjid Al-Mukmin in Kampung Batu 3 here today. Faizal is the assemblyman for Chenderiang.

The menteri besar said a workshop would be held to determine ways to implement the Pakatan Harapan election promises in the state, including the issue of land titles.

He said experts on the constitution as well as former senior government officers would also attend the workshop, and it would be the best way to resolve land issues.