Bentong:The Pahang state government has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions with Berjaya Hills Resort Bhd to resolve the ongoing dispute related to enforcement action on the land operated by the company in Bukit Tinggi, near Bentong.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail emphasized that any discussions must adhere to existing legal provisions and regulations. He stated, "The state government is open to discussions, but they must be based on and guided by the law."

The conflict centers around a significant increase in quit rent on Berjaya Hills' property, which rose to RM33.7 million in 2020 before being reduced to RM25.75 million. The company argues this increase undermines its ability to conduct business peacefully. An interim stay was obtained by Berjaya Hills on September 28 to prevent the forfeiture of its premises, which include essential facilities like staff quarters and a central laundry.

Wan Rosdy noted that it is up to Berjaya Hills to pursue the court hearing regarding the state government's claims. The company's previous judicial review application was rejected by the High Court on May 29, 2024, and the decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal on July 16. Berjaya Hills has since filed for leave to appeal to the Federal Court, with a hearing scheduled for December 8.

Addressing other concerns, Wan Rosdy mentioned that auditing the resort areas operated by Berjaya Group on Pulau Tioman is not a current priority. He also reiterated the state's commitment to acting against illegal land clearing, particularly in environmentally sensitive forest areas, including the Ramsar site in Bera. The state government remains firm on protecting state sovereignty and interests, ensuring enforcement against any land encroachments.