THE Penang Ratepayers Association clarified a previous on halting development in the state, saying it just wants the state to stop granting temporary approval for development projects if it cannot fulfil adequate supporting utilities, said association chairperson Lee Kim Noor.
The outspoken leader on ratepayers' rights, said that the state government must ensure that utilities — such as sewerage, drainage, and roads—are adequate before approving more projects.
"Failure to do so will contribute to traffic congestion and flooding. We did not request a freeze on temporary approvals. We stated that Penang has many unsold units and that assessment and quit rent rates are increasing. However, unoccupied units are not the reason for these increases. The hikes are due to the State running deficit budgets for many years, prompting the need to raise revenue."
"As a ratepayers’ association, it is our duty to object when increases are too steep, especially given rising living costs," said Lee.
Earlier, she issued a statement, citing that in some cases, the quit rent introduced by the state saw over a 100 percent increase for some premises.
She also clarified that the association is not part of the Penang Forum, an umbrella body of civil society movements (CSO) in the state.
"We attend Penang Forum events to listen to ratepayers’ feedback, but the association is an independent civil society organisation and is not listed as a member of the Penang Forum."
Lee also said that the quit rent was imposed by the state and not the Penang Island City Council (MBPP). - December 7, 2025.
