Bandar Seri Begawan - Various issues and suggestions pertaining to Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) lands were highlighted yesterday at the 9th Legislative Council Meeting (LegCo).

YB Awang Haji Gapor @ Haji Mohd Daud bin Karim posed the question whether applications on TOL land are still open at this time or temporarily laid off.

In response, the Minister of Development YB Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Suyoi bin Hi Osman explained that TOL land has been frozen for housing purposes or establishing enterprises, businesses, industries, learning sites (schools) and temporary government project sites.

YB Awang Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin voiced concerns regarding TOL owners who have invested on the land but are unable to pledge and sell it due to conditions set by banks, which states that only family members are eligible to do so.

He suggested that relevant authorities provide new recommendations for these owners to earn money

for land development or build houses especially for those currently working in the private sector and do not have the privilege of obtaining government loans.

The minister then reiterated that TOL land is only for personal use and should not to be sold or pledged. Hence, if no development is being conducted, the land will be surrendered back to the government.

"People who own TOL land are not eligible to apply for the National Housing Scheme unless the land is given back to the government."

Meanwhile, YB Awang Haji Mohd Shafiee bin Ahmad, said that the frozen TOL land for housing has worried permanent residents, as they are ineligible to apply for the National Housing Scheme. He suggested that relevant authorities conduct rigorous investigations before it is approved.

The Land Department will issue guidelines on this matter to avoid any further confusion. The minister acknowledged the request made by YB Awang Haji Mohd Shafiee and steps taken to improve the situation.