A long-running legal battle over land rezoning in Penang has reached its conclusion, with Malaysia’s highest court rejecting a challenge by residents of the One Tanjong condominium. The Federal Court ruled that the case failed to raise significant legal questions that would warrant further judicial review, effectively ending the homeowners’ three-year fight against the redevelopment of neighboring property.
The dispute centered around Lone Pine Residence Sdn Bhd’s successful 2021 application to change the land designation from a marina center to a general business zone. This rezoning permitted the developer to move forward with plans for serviced apartments and a wellness facility, provided the project focused on retirement and health-related use. The condominium owners had argued that the approval process bypassed mandatory public consultation and violated planning laws.
Courts at every level, including the High Court and Court of Appeal, previously dismissed the residents’ claims, finding no legal requirement for community input in such rezoning decisions. The Federal Court’s recent decision reinforced this stance, emphasizing that the case did not present novel constitutional or public interest concerns. The judges also ordered the applicants to cover legal costs totaling RM60,000, split between the state planning authorities and the developer.
Legal experts note that the ruling reaffirms the discretionary power of state planning committees in land-use decisions. While the homeowners sought clarity on public participation rights under the Town and Country Planning Act, the courts maintained that existing procedures were properly followed. With no further avenues for appeal, the contested development can now proceed as approved.