GEORGE TOWN: The federal government should handle the matter regarding the Sultan of Kedah's call for a review of the annual lease payment made to the state, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
"This is under the jurisdiction of the federal government. It is paid by the federal government and does not involve the state government," he told reporters after visiting the Northern Heart Hospital Penang on Thursday (July 9).
Sultan of Kedah Al-Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah had previously stated during his investiture ceremony that the current lease payment received by the Kedah government was visibly lower than its actual value.
The Ruler urged the federal government to review the payment to align it with current valuation and the spirit of the original agreement.
When asked whether the Penang government supported the Sultan's call, Chow reiterated that the matter should be answered by the federal government.
On claims by Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor that the state was assembling a legal team over Kedah's position and relationship with Penang, Chow said the Penang government had not received any correspondence.
Last year, it was reported that the Kedah government was finalising the appointment of a legal team to initiate action concerning the state's position and relationship with Penang.
The Sultan also called on the federal government to ensure there were no administrative obstacles to Kedah's efforts to manage and develop its Rare Earth Elements (REE) resources.
When asked about the Penang government's response, Chow again said the matter should be addressed by Putrajaya.
