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ALOR SETAR: Kedah has finalised legal grounds and historical documentation to push for a review of Penang’s annual lease payment, aiming to secure RM300mil annually from the Federal Government, says Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.
Speaking during a live podcast on Tuesday (July 28), Sanusi stated the state is preparing to take the matter to court, refer it to the Conference of Rulers, or initiate formal negotiations with Putrajaya.
However, he noted that the state is waiting for a "more neutral situation" before acting, fearing the current Federal Government would dismiss the findings outright to defend Penang's status within the federation.
"All the documents are ready, but we cannot reveal everything yet. We have a solid basis to take this matter to the next stage," he said, adding that findings by state researchers and legal advisers had received full approval from the state executive council.
Sanusi emphasised that the payment is a legitimate right, not "free money", under Article 167 of the Federal Constitution, which governs pre-independence obligations.
The annual grant started at RM10,000 before being raised to RM10million during Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s Pakatan Harapan administration. It has not been reviewed since, despite nearly 70 years passing since Independence.
"Previously, the Menteri Besar and the Prime Minister were from the same party, so perhaps they were afraid of losing their positions if they spoke up," Sanusi said.
"I am from a different party, so I can speak on behalf of my state."
Sanusi claimed that research into 200-year-old records reveals the British deceived the Sultan of Kedah and never held legitimate ownership rights over Penang before transferring it.
"The British did not own Penang. How could someone without ownership rights hand it over to another party until it became a state as it is today?" Sanusi questioned.
"If it is truly a lease, then pay the proper price."
Sanusi previously raised the RM300million proposal with former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin during the Perikatan Nasional administration. - THE STAR
