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CRITICS of the revised quit rent structure in Penang were not honest in addressing the issue, as some had conveniently declined to reveal important details such as the land size, location, taxation quantum and use.
All four factors, the size, location, taxation and use, are crucial criteria in determining their revised quit rent rates, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Holding a third media briefing to address the issues raised by Bagan Member of Parliament and Chow's predecessor, Lim Guan Eng, Chow said the state was confident in rebutting the arguments because the complainants did not specify crucial data.
Many of those who voiced their grievances were found to have structures on their land, with signs of involvement in either commercial or industrial activities.
This meant that they have benefited from the land use, hence the need for them to settle the quantum of the quit rent, said Chow.
Chow acknowledged the complaints voiced by four landowners, who had appeared beside Lim to express their grievances over the hike in quit rent.
In one case, Chow said that the disputed amount was the quit rent in 1994, which was RM12, and after revision by the state land and mines department, the rate for 2026 went up to RM34,118.
But the person failed to disclose the land size and use; inspections by the land inspectors revealed that the land has a pallet wood processing facility on the land.
Also, those who are unhappy have yet to lodge appeals with the district land administrator, said Chow.
He also accepted that the grievances were coming from the unique First Grade land title owners, who have ventured into either commercial or industrial land use.
Residential and agricultural owners are not really complaining, he noted.
Chow disclosed that as of now, a total of 1,665 appeals were lodged, whereas the total number of state land titles in Penang is 370,000.
So, the number is relatively confined, but if they have valid reasons, the state will try to help them overcome their struggles with the quit rent settlements, Chow said.
Out of the 1,665 cases, 525 were considered resolved, said Chow.
And about half of the 1,665 concerns appeals to do away with the minimum surcharge rate and to calculate the sum based on the size instead of minimum surcharges, Chow said.
He said that the state will continue to offer discounts where applicable, while those who wish to pay instalments are encouraged to contact the land authorities.
The quit rent rates cannot be lowered because it was being gazetted, Chow said - March 16, 2026.
