THE federal government has instructed all ministries to review the status of land owned by the Federal Land Commissioner that has remained undeveloped for extended periods, amid rising concerns over misuse and regulatory breaches.
Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar said neglected land parcels have become vulnerable to a range of unlawful activities, underscoring the urgency of coordinated action.
“It includes the construction of squatter settlements, places of worship without permission, as well as commercial activities that violate regulations,” he said in a statement posted on Facebook on Friday.
He added that existing mechanisms, including the Special Committee Meeting on Federal Land Development and Use, would be fully utilised to facilitate discussions among ministries in pursuit of solutions that are fair, practical and beneficial to all stakeholders.
The directive comes amid heightened scrutiny over unauthorised developments, particularly involving religious structures.
Earlier, the Sultan of Kedah, Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah, expressed serious concern over the construction of places of worship without proper approval, whether on government or privately owned land.
The ruler stressed that all actions must adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations.
He warned that any attempt to bypass established procedures and lawful approvals was unacceptable and could not be compromised, reinforcing the need for firm governance in land management and development.
The latest move signals a broader effort by federal authorities to tighten oversight, address longstanding land use issues and prevent further encroachment on public assets. - April 17, 2026
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