THE Penang government today announced its approval to replace a 218,000-litre water tank at the Kampung Melayu flats (Block A) in Ayer Itam, with an estimated cost of RM500,000.
It will be fully borne by the state.
Other works also include replacing the water reticulation system.
State Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo said the issue of water tank without efficient piping system has affected many families there.
“The Penang government will continue to prioritise quality living for all Penangites, and we will stay committed to ensuring everyone receives systematic water supply.
“Since 2008 to January this year, we have spent RM291.05 million on various housing maintenance funds.
“The amount includes maintenance works for housing schemes under the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP), all private and public housing schemes and the Penang Maximum 80% Maintenance Fund (TPM80PP).
“We sincerely hope that this new project will be beneficial for the residents.
“We will continue to assist all private and public housing schemes in Penang, especially where maintenance is concerned,” Jagdeep said during a brief press conference at the Kampung Melayu flats in Ayer Itam today.
According to him, the project is set to start in March this year, and is expected to be completed by October.
Built in 1974, the Kampung Melayu flats, which has a total of two blocks, is regarded as one of the oldest low-cost flats in Penang.
Also present during the press conference were Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh and Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng.
Story and pix by Kevin Vimal