Guan Eng wants Shahbudin to explain below-market-value land sale

GEORGE TOWN: Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng (pix) has once again queried Penang Regional Development Authority (Perda) on the discrepancy of building low-cost and low-medium cost housing and a proposal to build shop houses on a plot of land in South Seberang Prai.
He said he wants Perda chairman Datuk Shahbudin Yahaya to explain the issue after the latter was reported saying that the 3.4ha land was sold below market value to developers on condition that they build low-cost and low-medium cost housing.
He, however, refuted it saying the developer had already made an application to Seberang Prai Municipal Council (MPSP) on March 28 to build 27 shop houses instead of constructing the housing units.
"Why is there discrepancy between Shahbudin's statement and developer's proposal? " he asked in a press conference.
He said he was surprised as to why no housing units were built but instead shop houses were proposed.
He hoped that the Tasek Gelugor MP will be present tomorrow for a "coffee session" with him in addressing the issue.
He said this is important as the issue involved public interest, adding that something is not right if Shahbudin does not attend tomorrow.