HANOI – Vietnam’s government has asked the National Assembly to delay passing a controversial draft law on Special Economic Zones (SEZs), local media reports.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the government said it needed more time to research and ensure that the draft law meets the aspirations of both legislators and the public.

The proposed bill, which was initially scheduled for discussion and approval by Vietnamese lawmakers next week, garnered a large amount of criticism from NA deputies, experts and the public.

One of the provisions that raised most concern included a 99-year-leasing of land to foreign investors in three strategic locations; Van Don in the northern Quang Ninh Province, Bac Van Phong in the central Khanh Hoa Province and Phu Quoc in the southern Kien Giang Province.

News agency VnExpress cited a government statement released on Saturday saying the deferment request was made after “listening to enthusiastic and responsible contributions of members of parliament, scientists, economists, experts, voters and the people.”

The delay also aims to successfully build three special administrative-economic units towards ensuring national defense and sovereignty and meeting the aspirations of legislators, voters and people nationwide, according to the Government Office.

The SEZ bill is scheduled to be discussed again at the National Assembly’s next session in October.