Selangor Rejects Individual Bid For Construction Of Escalator At Batu Caves - Exco

SHAH ALAM, Jan 8 (Bernama) -- The Selangor state government has rejected an application for a Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) for commercial use, including the construction of an escalator at Batu Caves, after it was submitted in an individual’s name.

State executive councillor for Human Resources, Poverty Eradication, Orang Asli and Minority Affairs V. Papparaidu said the decision followed the fourth Selangor State Executive Council (Exco) meeting held on Feb 6, 2025.

He said the application was submitted under the name of R. Nadraja, which was not only without registration as an association, but also in breach of land regulations under the National Land Code.

“The state government rejected the application as land ownership under an individual’s name is not allowed. Approval can only be granted to an association registered with the Registrar of Societies (ROS),” he told a press conference at the Selangor State Secretary Building here today.

He said the application was also rejected as the site is designated for public use, adding that construction carried out before official approval violated procedures and could disrupt orderly development.

Papparaidu said that the state government would review all matters, including business lease status and commercial buildings, to rectify past non-compliance.

“If no agreement is reached, local authorities have the power to take action, including demolishing structures, to ensure compliance with the law,” he stressed.

He said the state government had, in principle, approved the disposal of land via a Temporary Occupation Licence under Section 65 of the National Land Code 1965 to the Sri Mahamariamman Devhasethanam Temple Association.

The approval involves a government reserve land parcel in Selayang, measuring 724.1 square metres (0.07241 hectares), for commercial use, including the construction of an escalator.

However, he said neither the individual concerned nor the temple had engaged in discussions with state executive councillors or local authorities before constructing the commercial centre, contributing to the approval delay.

Previously, allegations had surfaced, particularly on social media, claiming that the state government had failed to assist or had deliberately delayed approval for the commercial centre and escalator project at Batu Caves.

-- BERNAMA