GEORGE TOWN, Feb. 2 -- The state planning committee (SPC) does not have the authority to cancel planning permission approvals given by the local authorities over the foreign workers' hostel projects in Teluk Kumbar, said Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow.

He said the SPC can only make decisions on the rezoning of lands for developments, and one of the proposed foreign workers' hostels in Teluk Kumbar had submitted an application for planning permission and it was approved by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP).

"It was approved with conditions that the developer has to meet but the project is yet to start," he said in a press conference at his office today.

He said a second proposed foreign workers' hostel in Teluk Kumbar has also ...