GEORGE TOWN, December 1 – The Penang Ratepayers Association has urged the state government and local councils to postpone proposed increases in quit rent, assessment rates, and parking fees planned for next year. Association president Lee Kim Noor emphasized that the hikes would burden residents already grappling with high inflation, rising water tariffs, and impending cuts to petrol subsidies. Lee called for gradual and minimal increases instead of sudden hikes, suggesting public consultations and the inclusion of NGOs in decision-making processes.
She criticized claims that quit rent had not been reviewed for 30 years, highlighting changes in 2019 and the significant revenue generated from Penang’s growing number of high-rises. “The state should focus on cost-cutting and recovering outstanding dues from defaulters instead of passing the financial burden onto ratepayers,” she said, adding that smarter revenue collection methods could negate the need for rate increases.
The announced increases include a rise in parking rates on Penang Island from 40 sen to 60 sen for 30 minutes and daily rates from RM6 to RM9. Lee argued these hikes were unjustified, given the island’s already high parking fees compared to Seberang Perai, and urged authorities to ensure long-term cost efficiency before implementing changes. A memorandum outlining these concerns was submitted to Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and the state opposition today.
