Seberang Perai mayor Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid said a 70% discount on the application fees would be made available. The first phase of the programme will target residential areas that are up to five years old.

“The Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) will simplify the process of obtaining approval (for these extensions) and applicants will not be asked to pay any upfront deposit,” he said in a statement.

Baderul said homeowners will not need to hire consultants or architects for the applications.

He said approval would be given only to existing extensions within the boundaries of the property. Extensions that involve additional floors or space that goes beyond homeowners’ land will not be eligible.

“One of the benefits of the programme is the potential increase in property value,” he said. “Legalising unauthorised structures will add legitimacy and security to properties, making them more attractive to buyers and investors.”

Those interested can call the city council’s technical compliance and policy department at 04-5497865 ext 386 or visit the department on the 5th floor of the MBSP building in Bandar Perda, Bukit Mertajam.