The Penang government denied that Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) had bequeathed Masjid Jalan Tengah wakaf land in Jalan Burma and sold it to third parties.

State religious affairs and domestic trade and consumer affairs committee chairperson Abdul Malik Abul Kassim said the mosque land at Lot 205 was registered with Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) on Jan 5, 1993.

"I deny lies spread by certain quarters that the state government via MPPP had sold Masjid Jalan Tengah wakaf land to third parties. The land is still owned by MAINPP," he said in a statement in Georgetown today.

A newspaper report recently claimed that MPPP had bequeathed the land and sold to third parties for commercial purposes, creating anger among the parish.

On closure of the backlane to Masjid Jalan Tengah, Malik said it was due to construction of a semi-concrete building at Lot 206 by the owner.

The land owner had also placed zinc sheets making it difficult to reach the mosque, causing much anger among Muslims.

"Some have accused MPPP of corruption for approving construction of the building. In fact, the building is built without permission from MPPP.

"As a result, on May 11, MPPP issued a notice under Section 72 (1) Drainage and Building Act (AJPB) 1974, to stop construction and demolish the building."

He said notices had been served on June 24 and enforcement action will be undertaken against the party concerned.

- Bernama