Story by Chan Lilian
CHIEF Minister Lim Guan Eng had assured that the Penang State Government is a government that listens. Lim said this at the Real Estate and Housing Developers Association (REHDA) Penang 41st Anniversary dinner held at G Hotel on Oct 28.
REHDA has a membership of 102 and plays its role in ensuring sustainable and orderly growth of the housing and property industry.
REHDA Penang Chairman, Datuk Jerry Chan had talked about integrity and appealed to the government that the industry needs help from the government. Datuk’ Chan was referring to the delay in 47 APDL (advertising permit and development licence) where estimated 5,000 units of homes were affected. “Without the APDL, we cannot sell or promote the projects as well as finalise the sales ad purchase agreements,” Datuk Chan said.
“The GST has also increased the cost of doing business,” he added.
Meanwhile, in the CM’s speech, Lim agreed that the delay in the APDL by the Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Ministry and the GST had caused great burdens. However, Lim said, ” I know that it is very challenging for the industry. But, we should not feel gloomy. Penangites are resilient. Penangites are tough. I am sure we shall overcome these crises. Never give up. Things may seem hard and dark. But it is always the darkest before dawn. Penang never surrender. We are here to stay!” His speech was met with cheers and applause.
During the dinner, REHDA also contributed RM15,000 to an old folks home and children shelter home as part of its corporate social responsibility programme. Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Mohd. Rashid Hasnon, state exco members Chow Kon Yeow, Datuk Abdul Malik Kassim, Law Heng Kiang, assemblymembers, councillors were also joined REHDA in its celebration.
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