KUALA LUMPUR: Any form of unauthorised land encroachment must not be taken lightly as it could affect national planning and the interests of the people, says the Prime Minister.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said enforcement must therefore continue to be strengthened, and issues raised by stakeholders, including NGOs should be addressed promptly.
This was also to ensure accurate and transparent information is communicated comprehensively and effectively, he added.
“As we confront the effects of climate change, land governance can no longer focus solely on economic returns or physical development.
“Land management must be carried out prudently and systematically to minimise risks to environmental sustainability,” he said at the 83rd National Land Council meeting.
The Prime Minister said the government would continue to ensure that land management initiatives were carried out responsibly for the benefit of the people.
Meanwhile, the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry said key matters discussed at the meeting include a review of royalty rates for minerals and rock materials, and developing the National Critical Minerals Policy.
“The proposal (of the policy) recognises minerals as a strategic national resource that must be managed in a planned, responsible and sustainable manner, particularly amid advances in new technologies, the energy transition and rising demand for critical minerals.
“The meeting also considered proposals to review land tax rates in Kedah and Perlis, which were resubmitted to the council for consideration in accordance with the relevant laws and procedures,” the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry said the council also touched on the importance of continued cooperation and coordination between the federal and state governments to ensure land-related policies and decisions are implemented in a more structured and consistent manner, in line with the powers provided under the Federal Constitution.
It also said that close cooperation between the federal and state governments will further strengthen land management.
“The council will continue to serve as an important platform for ensuring the country’s land policies and administration remain responsive to current needs, future challenges and the interests of the people and nation.”
