SHAH ALAM, Jan 9 — The Selangor state government has rejected an application for a Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) for commercial use, including the construction of an escalator at Batu Caves, after it was submitted in an individual’s name.
State executive councillor for human resources, poverty eradication, Orang Asli, and minority affairs Papparaidu Veraman said the decision was made during the fourth State Executive Council meeting on February 6 last year.
He said the application was submitted under the name R. Nadraja, which was not only unregistered as an association but also in breach of land regulations under the National Land Code.
“The state government rejected the application as land ownership under an individual’s name is not allowed. Approval can only be granted to an association registered with the Registrar of Societies (ROS),” Papparaidu said during a media conference at the State Secretary Building on Thursday.
He added that the application was also rejected as the site is designated for public use, adding that construction carried out before official approval violated procedures and could disrupt orderly development.
The state government will review all matters, including business lease status and commercial buildings, to rectify past non-compliance.
“If no agreement is reached, the local authorities have the power to take action, including demolishing structures, to ensure compliance with the law,” Papparaidu said.
The state government had, in principle, approved the disposal of land via a Temporary Occupation Licence under Section 65 of the National Land Code 1965 to the Sri Mahamariamman Devhasethanam Temple Association.
The approval involves a government reserve land parcel in Selayang, measuring 724.1 square metres (0.07241 hectares), for commercial use, including the construction of an escalator.
However, he noted that neither the individual concerned nor the temple had discussed the project with state executive councillors or local authorities before constructing the commercial centre, which contributed to the approval delay.
Previously, allegations surfaced, particularly on social media, claiming that the state government had failed to assist or deliberately delayed approval of the commercial centre and escalator project at Batu Caves.
