By Neville Spykerman

SHAH ALAM, Feb 10 — All leasehold property owners in Petaling Jaya will be given an opportunity to extend their leases at a discount this

year.

Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim announced today the formation of a task force, headed by the state secretary to carry out the exercise.

“Petaling Jaya was one of the first early developments of Selangor in the 50s and 60s. We want residents to enjoy the appreciation in the market value of their land.” said the Selangor Mentri Besar today.

He pointed out that most owners had between 18 and 20 years left on their existing leases.

Khalid added the task force would need a month to determine how many lease hold properties will benefit from the exercise and how much discount will be given to owners.

“An announcement will be made in March.”

He added the exercise in Petaling Jaya will be a test case to determine if lease hold properties should be extended to other districts.

Currently leases are extended based on the market value of properties.

Khalid added a second task force has also been established to look into the feasibility of splitting the Klang Municipality into two local governments.

“Klang’s population has grown to over a million people and we feel it may be time to split the municipality, so residents enjoy more efficient and effective service.”