by elan peruma and kat hleen michael at the selangor state assembly

OWNERS of leasehold properties in Selangor can apply to renew the lease as early as 15 to 20 years before the expiry date, said Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Azmin Ali.

Unlike in the past, where application can be submitted only in the last few years before lease expires, Azmin said the state made it easier for the property owner to plan way ahead.

Property owners, he said, would be prevented from going through unduly pressure at the last minute.

“The property owners will be subjected to unnecessary stress for fear of the such properties being taken over by the state unless the lease is renewed,” he said in his reply to a question from Shahrum Mohd Sharif (BN-Dengkil).

He said the state also realised that the previous system was not practical and was unfriendly to property owners.

“We receive many applications for renewal of leasehold properties and the approvals are given on weekly basis during our state exco meeting.

“Many property owners are enjoying the benefit of the new practice which was introduced under the state’s caring citizen policy,” he said

Meanwhile, Selangor Health, Welfare, Women and Family Affairs Committee chairman Dr Daroyah Alwi said the state had given out death benefits of RM2,500 to each of the 85,539 deceased families of senior citizens.

“We have given out a total RM210mil until July 21 this year,” she said in her reply to a question by Dr Xavier Jayakumar (PKR-Sri Andalas)

She added that the healthcare card scheme, introduced by the state to those above 60 years old, received good response from the public.

She said the cardholders can receive free healthcare services from state-appointed panel clinics.

“The card entitled the bearer to receive treatment up to RM200 per year,” she said.

Besides that, Dr Daroyah said the state’s senior citizens enjoyed benefits such as the Jom Shopping programme provided by the state during Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas.