40% of backlogged estate distribution cases resolved, says minister

A total of 29,423 or 40% of the 72,384 backlogged cases on estate distribution recorded early this year had been resolved as of August, says Energy and Natural Resources Minister Takiyuddin Hassan.

He said this was the result of continuous efforts by the energy and natural resources ministry through the department of the director-general of lands and mines (JKPTG) in dealing with backlogged cases, in addition to the relaxation of Covid-19 SOPs from April this year.

"The relocation of officers from the task force unit of JKPTG, who were previously stationed at the state land administration office, to the office of the estate distribution unit in each state in Peninsular Malaysia, has helped increase the capacity to resolve cases in a short period.

"The management of backlogged cases has gone smoothly with continuous support and cooperation from the state authorities," he told a press conference in Kota Bharu today.

He said the ministry also hoped that the recruitment of 100 contract staff from January 2023 would be able to resolve the remaining backlog of cases before the amendment to the Small Estates (Distribution) Act 1955 (Act 98) is enforced.
 
Takiyuddin said JKPTG received an average of 60,000 cases annually, with Kedah recording the highest number at 13,000 cases.

He said that in Kelantan alone, there were 7,570 backlogged estate distribution cases as of August.

"The ministry will continue to lead efforts to ensure that the issue of backlogged small estate cases is given due attention," he said.

Takiyuddin said JKPTG would also organise more case arrears settlement clinics to give customers and beneficiaries the opportunity to seek advice on inheritance issues and consultation on application procedures.