THE sacrifices and efforts of frontliners in Penang have not gone unnoticed as the Penang government values their contributions in serving Penangites.
This was evident after a total of 90 personnel from the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP), Civil Defence Force (APM) and other various government agencies received accolades for going the extra mile in serving the people during these trying times.
State Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo said the state appreciates the contributions of over 5,000 frontliners in Penang, especially during this Covid-19 pandemic.
He said they were carrying out their duties efficiently in keeping both the island and mainland clean and safe.
“Therefore, we proudly would like to announce that 90 frontliners are receiving their respective affordable housing offer letters today. Out of the total, 49 are from various government agencies, 33 from MBSP and eight from MBPP.
“After a series of Selection Process Enhancement Committee (SPEC) meetings chaired by me and attended by 15 other state executive councillors and state assemblymen, we have decided to approve the applications by the eligible applicants.
“This SPEC committee which was formed in November 2013, has convened 60 times as we want everything to be transparent and in accordance with the law.
“So far, we have selected 55,905 applicants, which include 6,695 civil servants and 90 frontliners.
“Tributes must be given to them (frontliners) for their unwavering commitment,” Jagdeep told a press conference in City Hall, at the Esplanade, today.
Many of the recipients were overjoyed after receiving the offer letters from Jagdeep.
One of the recipients, Sobri Ahmad, 58, from APM was delighted to have received the offer letter.
“I have been renting a house in north Seberang Perai for the past 10 years, and this is a dream that has finally came true.
“I can finally have my own affordable housing unit in Taman Perda Indah, Tasek Gelugor,” said Sobri.
Another recipient was Nazri Ismail, a frontliner from MBSP, who had been applying for an affordable housing unit for several years.
“I have managed to secure a unit in central Seberang Perai,” said the 42-year-old Nazri, who is residing in Penanti currently.
Muhammad Ridzwan Yahaya, 30, who is now staying in Sungai Pinang, was on cloud nine after receiving the offer letter to purchase an affordable housing unit in the southwest district on Penang island.
“I’m absolutely happy and appreciate the state’s effort,” he added.
On a separate note, Jagdeep stressed to the public to always follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to curb the Covid-19 infection.
“We must take precautionary measures, especially with the coming long holiday.
“After all, Penang is an attractive tourist destination. I hope that everyone will strictly follow the SOPs,” he said.
Also present were MBPP mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang, MBSP mayor Datuk Rozali Mohamud and state housing division senior principal assistant secretary Ainul Fadhilah Samsudi.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi